Topical Encyclopedia Calah, also known as Nimrud in modern archaeological terms, was an ancient city of significant importance in the Assyrian Empire. It is mentioned in the Bible in the context of the early post-Flood world and the expansion of the descendants of Noah. The city is first referenced in Genesis 10:11-12, which states, "From that land he went forth into Assyria, where he built Nineveh, Rehoboth-Ir, Calah, and Resen, which is between Nineveh and Calah; that is the great city" (Berean Standard Bible). This passage attributes the founding of Calah to Nimrod, a mighty hunter and a prominent figure in the early genealogies of Genesis.Calah was strategically located on the Tigris River, approximately 20 miles south of Nineveh, the capital of Assyria. Its position made it a vital center for trade, military operations, and administration. The city rose to prominence during the reign of Ashurnasirpal II (883–859 BC), who made it the capital of the Assyrian Empire. Ashurnasirpal II undertook extensive building projects in Calah, including the construction of a grand palace and numerous temples, which showcased the wealth and power of Assyria. The city continued to flourish under subsequent Assyrian kings, such as Shalmaneser III and Tiglath-Pileser III, who further expanded its infrastructure and influence. Calah served as a royal residence and a hub for the empire's political and military activities. The city's archaeological remains, including impressive reliefs and inscriptions, provide valuable insights into the art, culture, and religion of ancient Assyria. Calah's significance is also reflected in the prophetic literature of the Bible. Although not mentioned by name, the city was part of the broader Assyrian context that the prophets often addressed. The Assyrian Empire, with its capital at Nineveh, was a dominant force in the Near East and played a crucial role in the history of Israel and Judah. The prophets, such as Isaiah and Nahum, spoke of Assyria's rise and eventual fall, highlighting the divine sovereignty over nations and the fulfillment of God's purposes. The city's decline began in the late 7th century BC, as the Assyrian Empire faced internal strife and external pressures. In 612 BC, a coalition of Babylonians, Medes, and other groups captured and destroyed Nineveh, marking the end of Assyrian dominance. Calah, along with other Assyrian cities, fell into obscurity and was eventually abandoned. Today, the site of ancient Calah, known as Nimrud, has been the focus of extensive archaeological excavations. These efforts have uncovered a wealth of artifacts and structures, shedding light on the grandeur and complexity of Assyrian civilization. Despite the challenges of modern conflict and preservation, the legacy of Calah endures as a testament to the historical and biblical narratives that continue to captivate scholars and believers alike. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 10:11,12Out of that land went forth Asshur, and built Nineveh, and the city Rehoboth, and Calah, Nave's Topical Index Library Chapter x The Power of Assyria at Its Zenith; Esarhaddon and Assur-Bani-Pal Babylonia and Assyria Sargon of Assyria (722-705 BC ) The Rise of the Assyrian Empire "In the Volume of the Book it is Written of Me" (Heb. . . Sennacherib (705-681 BC ) Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire Resources What does selah mean in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Nimrod in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Where did Noah live? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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