Topical Encyclopedia Celosyria, often referred to in historical and biblical contexts, is a region of significant importance in the ancient Near East. The term "Celosyria" is derived from the Greek "Koile Syria," meaning "Hollow Syria," which refers to the geographical depression between the Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon mountain ranges. This area is known today as the Beqaa Valley in modern-day Lebanon.Biblical References and Historical Context While the term "Celosyria" itself does not appear directly in the Bible, the region is closely associated with several biblical events and narratives. Celosyria was a strategic and fertile area, often contested by various empires throughout history, including the Egyptians, Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, and Romans. Its significance is underscored by its location along major trade routes and its agricultural productivity. In the biblical narrative, the region of Syria, which includes Celosyria, is frequently mentioned. For instance, during the reign of King David, the Israelites had interactions with the Syrians. In 2 Samuel 8:6 , it is recorded, "Then David placed garrisons in Aram of Damascus, and the Arameans became subject to David and brought him tribute. So the LORD gave victory to David wherever he went." This passage highlights the military and political influence exerted by Israel over the Syrian territories, which would have included regions like Celosyria. The Seleucid Empire, which controlled Celosyria after the division of Alexander the Great's empire, plays a significant role in the intertestamental period. The Maccabean Revolt, a pivotal event in Jewish history, was partly a response to the Hellenistic influence and control exerted by the Seleucids over Judea and surrounding regions, including Celosyria. Cultural and Religious Significance Celosyria's cultural and religious landscape was diverse, influenced by the various empires that controlled it. The region was a melting pot of different peoples and beliefs, contributing to its complex historical narrative. The presence of numerous temples and religious sites in the area attests to its spiritual significance. In the New Testament era, the influence of Hellenistic culture, which had permeated Celosyria, is evident in the broader context of the Roman Empire. The spread of Christianity in the first century A.D. would have encountered the diverse cultural and religious backdrop of regions like Celosyria, as the apostles and early Christians traveled through these areas spreading the Gospel. Geopolitical Importance Celosyria's geopolitical importance cannot be overstated. Its location made it a coveted prize for empires seeking control over the Levant. The region served as a buffer zone and a corridor for military campaigns, influencing the power dynamics of the ancient Near East. The historical conflicts over Celosyria, such as those between the Ptolemaic and Seleucid empires, are reflective of its strategic value. These conflicts are part of the broader narrative of the struggle for dominance in the region, which is echoed in the biblical accounts of wars and alliances involving Israel and its neighbors. In summary, while Celosyria is not explicitly named in the Bible, its historical and geographical context provides a backdrop for many biblical events and narratives. Its significance in the ancient world is reflected in its role as a crossroads of cultures, religions, and empires, shaping the history of the Near East and the biblical lands. Smith's Bible Dictionary CelosyriaInternational Standard Bible Encyclopedia CELOSYRIAse-lo-sir'-i-a. Thesaurus CelosyriaCelosyria. Cells, Celosyria. Cement . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia CELOSYRIA. se-lo-sir'-ia. See COELE-SYRIA. Cells, Celosyria. Cement . ... /c/celosyria.htm - 6k Cells (24 Occurrences) Coelesyria Cement (1 Occurrence) Coele-syria Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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