Topical Encyclopedia The term "Arabians" in the Bible generally refers to the nomadic tribes inhabiting the Arabian Peninsula and surrounding regions. These tribes are often associated with the descendants of Ishmael, the son of Abraham and Hagar, as well as other groups such as the Midianites and the descendants of Keturah, Abraham's concubine. The Bible contains several prophecies concerning the Arabians, reflecting their interactions with Israel and their role in the unfolding of biblical history.Prophecies in the Old Testament 1. Isaiah's Oracle Against Arabia: In Isaiah 21:13-17, the prophet delivers an oracle concerning Arabia. The prophecy speaks of a time of distress and hardship for the Arabian tribes, particularly the Dedanites. Isaiah warns that within a year, the glory of Kedar will come to an end, and the number of archers, the mighty men of Kedar, will be few. This prophecy highlights the transient nature of human power and the sovereignty of God over all nations. Isaiah 21:16-17 : "For this is what the Lord has said to me: 'Within one year, as a hired worker would count it, all the glory of Kedar will come to an end. The remaining archers, the warriors of Kedar, will be few.' The LORD, the God of Israel, has spoken." 2. Jeremiah's Prophecy Against Kedar and Hazor: In Jeremiah 49:28-33, the prophet Jeremiah delivers a message against Kedar and the kingdoms of Hazor. The prophecy foretells an invasion by Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, who will strike these nomadic tribes. The prophecy emphasizes the vulnerability of those who dwell in tents and the desolation that will come upon their lands. Jeremiah 49:28-29 : "Concerning Kedar and the kingdoms of Hazor, which Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon defeated, this is what the LORD says: 'Arise, go up against Kedar, and destroy the people of the East! They will take their tents and their flocks, their tent curtains and all their goods. They will carry off their camels as plunder and cry out against them: Terror is on every side!'" 3. Ezekiel's Prophecy Against Arabia: In Ezekiel 27:21, Arabia is mentioned in the context of a lamentation over the fall of Tyre. The Arabians are noted for their trade with Tyre, providing lambs, rams, and goats. This reference underscores the commercial relationships between the Arabians and other ancient Near Eastern civilizations. Ezekiel 27:21 : "Arabia and all the princes of Kedar were your customers, trading in lambs, rams, and goats." Prophecies in the New Testament While the New Testament does not contain specific prophecies concerning the Arabians, it does mention Arabia in the context of the Apostle Paul's journeys. In Galatians 1:17, Paul notes that after his conversion, he did not immediately consult with anyone but went into Arabia before returning to Damascus. This reference highlights the geographical and cultural significance of Arabia during the early Christian era. Galatians 1:17 : "nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me. But I went into Arabia and later returned to Damascus." Theological Implications The prophecies concerning the Arabians reflect the broader biblical theme of God's sovereignty over all nations and His ability to use various peoples and events to accomplish His divine purposes. The fulfillment of these prophecies serves as a testament to the reliability of God's word and His control over history. The interactions between the Israelites and the Arabians, as depicted in these prophecies, also illustrate the complex relationships between neighboring peoples in the ancient Near East. Nave's Topical Index Isaiah 21:13-17The burden on Arabia. In the forest in Arabia shall you lodge, O you traveling companies of Dedanim. Nave's Topical Index Isaiah 42:11 Isaiah 60:7 Jeremiah 25:24 Library The Twelve Minor Prophets. The Sibylline Oracles. The Antiquities of the Jews Book iv. The Earlier Books of this Treatise, Written Some Time Ago ... Letter Liii. To Paulinus. Of the Three Woe Trumpets. The Fourth vision "In Heaven" The Second vision "On Earth" The Assumption of Moses Book ii. Jerome Answers the Second, Third, and Fourth Propositions ... Resources Who are the descendants of Ishmael? | GotQuestions.orgWhen were Obadiah's prophecies against Edom fulfilled (Obadiah 1:18-20)? | GotQuestions.org Who were the sons of Noah, and what happened to them and their descendants? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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