Topical Encyclopedia The term "Carmonians" is not directly mentioned in the canonical books of the Bible. However, it is found in the apocryphal text of 2 Esdras, also known as 4 Ezra, which is included in some versions of the Christian Old Testament Apocrypha. The reference to the Carmonians appears in 2 Esdras 15:30-31, where they are described as a fierce and warlike people.Historical Context The Carmonians are generally identified with the ancient inhabitants of Carmania, a region corresponding to the modern-day province of Kerman in southeastern Iran. This area was known for its rugged terrain and was part of the larger Persian Empire. The people of Carmania were considered fierce warriors, and their land was strategically significant due to its location along trade routes and its proximity to the Persian Gulf. Biblical and Apocryphal References In 2 Esdras 15:30-31, the Carmonians are mentioned in a prophetic context, where they are described as coming forth from their land with great wrath, like wild boars of the forest. The passage reads: "Also the Carmonians, raging in wrath, shall go forth as the wild boars of the wood, and with great power shall they come, and join battle with them, and shall waste a portion of the land of the Assyrians." This apocalyptic imagery is part of a larger narrative concerning the end times, where various nations and peoples are depicted as instruments of divine judgment. The Carmonians, in this context, symbolize a formidable force unleashed upon the earth as part of God's sovereign plan. Theological Significance From a theological perspective, the mention of the Carmonians in 2 Esdras serves as a reminder of God's control over the nations and His ability to use even the most unlikely groups to fulfill His purposes. The imagery of the Carmonians as wild boars emphasizes their untamed and destructive nature, which can be seen as a metaphor for the chaos and upheaval that often accompany divine judgment. Cultural and Symbolic Interpretation The Carmonians, as depicted in 2 Esdras, can also be understood symbolically. In biblical literature, wild animals often represent nations or powers that act as agents of God's judgment. The ferocity of the Carmonians highlights the severity of the coming trials and tribulations that are part of the eschatological vision presented in the text. Conclusion While the Carmonians are not a prominent group within the canonical Scriptures, their mention in the apocryphal 2 Esdras provides insight into the broader biblical theme of divine sovereignty over the nations. Their role in the apocalyptic narrative underscores the unpredictability and power of God's judgment, serving as a warning and a call to repentance for all who hear the message. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia CARMONIANSkar-mo'-ni-anz; the King James Version Carmanians: A people mentioned in one of the visions-"an horrible vision" (2 Esdras 15:30)-of the "Apocalypse of Esdras." Their country, Carmania, was an extensive province of Asia lying between Parthia and Ariana and the North side of the Persian Gulf, and extending to Drangiana and Gedrosia on the East and to the river Bagradas and Persis on the West. It is frequently mentioned by the ancient writers, among others by Strabo and Arrian, who describe the inhabitants as closely resembling the Medians and Persians in manners and customs. In the passage cited they are intended to denote a fierce and warlike people, being described as "raging in wrath as wild boars of the wood" and associated with the "dragons of Arabia." Thesaurus Carmonians... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia CARMONIANS. kar-mo'-ni-anz; the King James Version Carmanians: A people mentioned in one of the ... /c/carmonians.htm - 7k Carmites (1 Occurrence) Carnage (1 Occurrence) Swine (15 Occurrences) Carmanians Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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