Ecbat'ana, known in modern times as Hamadan, is an ancient city located in present-day Iran. It served as the capital of the Median Empire and later became a significant city in the Achaemenid and Parthian empires. The city is mentioned in the Apocryphal books of the Bible, specifically in the Book of Tobit and the Book of Judith, which are included in the Septuagint and recognized in the canon of some Christian traditions.

Historical and Biblical Context

Ecbat'ana is historically recognized as one of the great cities of the ancient Near East. It was founded by Deioces, the first king of the Medes, and became the royal city of the Median Empire. The city was renowned for its impressive fortifications and palatial structures, which were said to be adorned with precious metals and stones.

In the biblical context, Ecbat'ana is mentioned in the Book of Tobit, which is part of the Apocrypha. Tobit 1:14 states, "And I went to Media and left in trust with Gabael, the brother of Gabri, at Rages, a city of Media, ten talents of silver." Although Ecbat'ana is not directly mentioned in this verse, the city of Rages is often associated with the region of Media, where Ecbat'ana was a prominent city.

The Book of Judith also references Ecbat'ana, describing it as a city fortified with walls and towers. Judith 1:1-2 provides a historical setting during the reign of Nebuchadnezzar, king of the Assyrians, who ruled in Nineveh. The text mentions Arphaxad, king of the Medes, who reigned in Ecbat'ana and fortified the city with walls of hewn stones.

Archaeological and Cultural Significance

Ecbat'ana's archaeological remains reveal its historical significance as a center of power and culture. The city was strategically located on trade routes, contributing to its wealth and influence. Excavations have uncovered remnants of its ancient fortifications, palaces, and other structures, providing insight into its architectural and cultural achievements.

The city's significance continued under the Achaemenid Empire, where it served as a summer residence for Persian kings. Ecbat'ana's role as a royal city is further evidenced by its mention in historical records, including those of Herodotus and other classical historians.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, Ecbat'ana's mention in the Apocryphal books highlights the broader historical and cultural context of the biblical narrative. It serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of the ancient Near Eastern world and the diverse influences that shaped the history of God's people. The city's inclusion in these texts underscores the historical reality of the biblical accounts and the geographical breadth of the events described.

Ecbat'ana's role in the biblical narrative, though limited, provides a backdrop for understanding the historical and cultural milieu in which the events of the Bible unfolded. Its mention in the Apocrypha reflects the broader historical context of the Jewish diaspora and the interactions between different empires and cultures during the biblical period.EcbatanaEzra 6:2 margin. In the apocryphal books Ecbatana is frequently mentioned. Two cities named Ecbatana seem to have existed in ancient times, one the capital of northern Media --the Media Atropatene of Strabo --the other the metropolis of the larger and more important province known as Media Magna. The site of the former appears to be marked by the very curious ruins at Takht-i-Suleiman.

Ecbat'ana (1 Occurrence)
Ecbat'ana. Ecbatana, Ecbat'ana. Ecce . Multi-Version Concordance
Ecbat'ana (1 Occurrence). Ezra 6:2 There was found at Achmetha, in ...
/e/ecbat'ana.htm - 6k

Ecce

/e/ecce.htm - 7k

Ecbatana (1 Occurrence)

/e/ecbatana.htm - 7k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus