Topical Encyclopedia Holofernes is a prominent figure in the deuterocanonical Book of Judith, which is included in the Septuagint and the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Christian Old Testament canons, but not in the Hebrew Bible or Protestant Old Testament. He is depicted as a general in the army of Nebuchadnezzar, the king of the Assyrians, and plays a central role in the narrative of Judith, a Jewish heroine.Historical Context The Book of Judith is set during a time when Nebuchadnezzar, historically known as the king of Babylon, is portrayed as the king of Assyria. This anachronism suggests that the book is not intended as a historical account but rather as a theological and moral narrative. Holofernes is tasked by Nebuchadnezzar to lead a campaign against the western nations that refused to support his war efforts. His mission is to subdue these nations and enforce the king's dominance. Character and Role Holofernes is characterized as a powerful and ruthless military leader. He is described as having a formidable presence and is feared by those he encounters. His campaign is marked by a series of conquests, as he successfully subdues various cities and regions, instilling fear and submission among the people. In the Book of Judith, Holofernes' role is pivotal as he lays siege to the city of Bethulia, a strategic location that stands in the way of his campaign against Jerusalem. The siege causes great distress among the inhabitants, leading to a crisis of faith and morale. Encounter with Judith Judith, a devout and courageous widow, emerges as the heroine of the account. She devises a plan to save her people by infiltrating the enemy camp. Her beauty and wisdom captivate Holofernes, who invites her to a banquet in his tent. Judith uses this opportunity to execute her plan. After Holofernes becomes intoxicated, she decapitates him with his own sword, delivering his head to the people of Bethulia. This act of bravery leads to the disarray and defeat of the Assyrian army. Theological Significance The account of Holofernes and Judith is rich in theological themes. It highlights the power of faith and divine intervention, as Judith's victory is attributed to her reliance on God. The narrative underscores the idea that God can deliver His people through unexpected means and individuals, regardless of their social status or gender. The account also serves as a moral lesson on the dangers of pride and hubris. Holofernes' downfall is precipitated by his arrogance and underestimation of Judith, a seemingly powerless woman. His demise illustrates the biblical principle that "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble" (James 4:6). Cultural and Literary Impact The account of Holofernes and Judith has had a significant impact on art and literature throughout history. It has been depicted in numerous paintings, sculptures, and literary works, often symbolizing the triumph of virtue over vice and the power of faith. In summary, Holofernes is a key figure in the Book of Judith, representing the oppressive forces against which the people of God must stand firm. His encounter with Judith serves as a powerful narrative of deliverance and divine justice, resonating with themes of faith, courage, and the ultimate victory of God's people. Smith's Bible Dictionary Holofernesor more correctly OLOFERNES, was, according to the book of Judith, a general of Nebuchadnezzar king of the Assyrians., Judith 2:4, who was slain by the Jewish heroine Judith during the siege of Bethulia. (B.C. 350.) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia HOLOFERNEShol-o-fur'-nez (Olophernes): According to the Book of Judith, chief captain of Nebuchadnezzar, king of the Assyrians (Judith 2:4), who was commissioned to make war upon the West country and to receive from the inhabitants the usual tokens of complete submission, earth and water. The object of the expedition of Holofernes, who thus became the typical persecutor of the Jews, was to compel men everywhere to worship Nebuchadnezzar. He was slain by Judith, the heroine of the book of that name, during the siege of Bethulia. There is no notice of Holofernes except in the Book of Judith. The termination of the word would seem to indicate a Persian origin for the name. The Holofernes of Shakespeare and Rabelais is in no way connected with the deeds of the Holofernes of the Apocrypha. Library The Jews, Then, Having Returned, as we have Narrated Above... By the Example of Judith is Shown that Courage is not Wanting in ... When this Became Known to Judith a Widow Woman of Great Wealth... Here Beginneth the Story of Judith Our Friends Take it Amiss that I have Spoken of the Origenists as ... Whether Every Lie is a Sin? Appendix. The Apocryphal Books of the Old Testament. Examples of Such Love. Examples of Such Love. Women as Well as Men Capable of Perfection. Thesaurus Holofernes... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia HOLOFERNES. hol-o-fur ... of Bethulia. There is no notice of Holofernes except in the Book of Judith. The ... /h/holofernes.htm - 7k Judith (1 Occurrence) Achior Konae Ocina Jemnaan Joakim Geba (22 Occurrences) Rasses Drunkenness (10 Occurrences) Resources What is the book of Judith? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |