Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Media, an ancient kingdom located in what is now northwestern Iran, plays a significant role in the historical and prophetic narratives of the Bible. The Medes, the inhabitants of Media, are frequently mentioned in conjunction with the Persians, forming the Medo-Persian Empire, which was instrumental in the fulfillment of several biblical prophecies. Historical Context: The Medes were an Indo-European people who settled in the region of Media around the 8th century BC. They established a powerful kingdom that eventually allied with the Persians under the leadership of Cyrus the Great. This alliance led to the overthrow of the Babylonian Empire, a pivotal event in biblical history. Biblical References: 1. Isaiah's Prophecy: The prophet Isaiah foretold the rise of the Medes as a tool of God's judgment against Babylon. In Isaiah 13:17, it is written, "Behold, I will stir up the Medes against them, who have no regard for silver and no delight in gold." This prophecy highlights the Medes' role in the divine plan to bring down Babylon, which occurred in 539 BC. 2. Daniel's Vision: The Book of Daniel provides further insight into the Medo-Persian Empire. In Daniel 5:28, during the interpretation of the writing on the wall, Daniel declares, "Your kingdom has been divided and given over to the Medes and Persians." This event marks the end of the Babylonian reign and the beginning of Medo-Persian dominance. 3. The Book of Esther: The Medes are also mentioned in the context of the Persian Empire in the Book of Esther. Esther 1:19 refers to "the laws of the Persians and the Medes," indicating the legal and cultural influence of the Medes within the empire. This period is significant for the Jewish people, as it sets the stage for the events that lead to their deliverance from a plot to annihilate them. 4. Ezra and Nehemiah: The Medo-Persian Empire's policies, particularly under King Cyrus, allowed the Jewish exiles to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. Ezra 1:1-2 records, "In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, in order to fulfill the word of the LORD spoken by Jeremiah, the LORD stirred the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia to issue a proclamation throughout his realm and to put it in writing." This decree fulfilled Jeremiah's prophecy and demonstrated the Medes' indirect role in the restoration of Israel. Cultural and Religious Influence: The Medes, alongside the Persians, contributed to the cultural and administrative practices of the empire. Their influence is seen in the legal systems and governance structures that persisted throughout the region. The Medo-Persian Empire's policy of religious tolerance allowed the Jewish people to practice their faith and rebuild their temple, which had significant implications for the preservation and continuation of Jewish religious traditions. Prophetic Significance: The Medes' involvement in biblical prophecy underscores the sovereignty of God in using nations to accomplish His purposes. The rise and fall of empires, including that of the Medes, are depicted in the Bible as part of God's divine plan for history, demonstrating His control over the affairs of nations and His faithfulness to His promises. Conclusion: While the Medes as a distinct people eventually faded from prominence, their legacy within the biblical narrative remains significant. Their role in the fulfillment of prophecy and the shaping of the ancient Near Eastern world highlights the intricate tapestry of history woven by divine providence. Concordance Media's (1 Occurrence)Isaiah 21:2 Thesaurus Media's (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Media's (1 Occurrence). Isaiah 21:2 A grievous vision is declared to me. ... Go up, Elam; attack! I have stopped all of Media's sighing. ... /m/media's.htm - 6k Treacherous (34 Occurrences) Destroys (23 Occurrences) Median (3 Occurrences) Mediate (1 Occurrence) Sighing (22 Occurrences) Destroyer (23 Occurrences) Deals (34 Occurrences) Grievous (73 Occurrences) Vision (106 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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