Topical Encyclopedia The term "Damascenes" refers to the inhabitants of Damascus, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and a significant location in biblical history. Damascus is first mentioned in the Bible in Genesis 14:15, where it is associated with Abraham's pursuit of the kings who had taken his nephew Lot captive. The city is located in modern-day Syria and has been a central hub for trade and culture throughout history.Biblical Significance Damascus holds a prominent place in the biblical narrative, particularly in the New Testament. One of the most notable events involving Damascenes is the conversion of Saul of Tarsus, who later became the Apostle Paul. In Acts 9:1-19, Saul is on his way to Damascus to persecute Christians when he encounters the risen Christ. This transformative experience leads to his conversion and subsequent baptism by Ananias, a disciple in Damascus. The account states, "As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him" (Acts 9:3). The city is also mentioned in the context of Paul's escape from a plot against his life. In 2 Corinthians 11:32-33, Paul recounts, "In Damascus, the governor under King Aretas secured the city of the Damascenes in order to arrest me. But I was lowered in a basket through a window in the wall and escaped his grasp" . This event highlights the early opposition faced by Christians and the providential care that allowed Paul to continue his ministry. Old Testament References In the Old Testament, Damascus is frequently mentioned in the context of Israel's interactions with neighboring nations. The city was the capital of Aram (Syria) and often found itself in conflict with Israel. In 1 Kings 11:24, Rezon, the son of Eliada, fled from Hadadezer king of Zobah and gathered men to become a leader of a marauding band, eventually reigning in Damascus. This established a long-standing enmity between Damascus and Israel. The prophet Isaiah prophesied against Damascus, foretelling its downfall: "Behold, Damascus will cease to be a city and will become a heap of ruins" (Isaiah 17:1). This prophecy underscores the judgment of God against nations that opposed His people and serves as a reminder of the sovereignty of God over all nations. Cultural and Historical Context Damascus was a significant cultural and economic center in the ancient Near East. Its strategic location on the trade routes between Egypt and Mesopotamia made it a vital city for commerce and communication. The Damascenes were known for their skills in craftsmanship, particularly in the production of textiles and metalwork. Throughout history, Damascus has been a melting pot of various cultures and religions, contributing to its rich and diverse heritage. The city's long history and its role in biblical events make it a place of interest for both historical and theological studies. Conclusion The Damascenes, as inhabitants of a city with deep biblical roots, played a crucial role in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. From the conversion of Paul to the prophetic declarations of the Old Testament, Damascus serves as a testament to the enduring significance of God's interactions with humanity throughout history. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia DAMASCENESdam-a-senz', dam'-a-senz ten polin Damaskenon, ("the city of the Damascenes"): The inhabitants of Damascus under Aretas the Arabian are so called (2 Corinthians 11:32). Greek 1153. Damaskenos -- of Damascus ... Word Origin from Damaskos Definition of Damascus NASB Word Usage Damascenes (1). Damascene. From Damaskos; a Damascene or inhabitant of Damascus -- Damascene. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1153.htm - 6k Library How Upon the Death of Jotham, Ahaz Reigned in his Stead; against ... Second Sunday Before Lent How Herod Sent his Sons to Rome; How Also He was Accused by ... 2 Cor. xii. 1 1 Cor. Ii. 1, 2 Herod is Confirmed in his Kingdom by Caesar, and Cultivates a ... How Zerah, King of the Ethiopians, was Beaten by Asa; and How Asa ... The Ascension of Isaiah. 2 Cor. xi. 21 The Acts of the Apostles. Thesaurus Damascenes (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia DAMASCENES. dam-a-senz', dam ... 11:32). Multi-Version Concordance Damascenes (1 Occurrence). 2 Corinthians ... /d/damascenes.htm - 7k Guarded (27 Occurrences) Garrison (15 Occurrences) Wishing (25 Occurrences) Ethnarch (1 Occurrence) Dam'aris (1 Occurrence) Desirous (31 Occurrences) Aretas (1 Occurrence) Ar'etas (1 Occurrence) Resources Why, when, and for how long was the apostle Paul in Arabia? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Damascenes (1 Occurrence)2 Corinthians 11:32 Subtopics Related Terms Tiglathpileser (3 Occurrences) Tiglath-pileser (6 Occurrences) |
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