Topical Encyclopedia Cyrene was an ancient city located in the region of Cyrenaica, in present-day Libya, North Africa. It was founded around 630 BC by Greek settlers from the island of Thera. Cyrene became a prominent city in the Hellenistic world, known for its intellectual and cultural contributions, including its famous school of philosophy and medicine.Biblical Significance Cyrene holds a notable place in the New Testament, primarily due to its connection with early Christianity and its mention in several key passages. 1. Simon of Cyrene: One of the most well-known references to Cyrene in the Bible is the account of Simon of Cyrene, who was compelled to carry the cross of Jesus on the way to Golgotha. This event is recorded in the Synoptic Gospels. In Mark 15:21 , it states, "Now Simon of Cyrene, the father of Alexander and Rufus, was passing by on his way in from the country, and they forced him to carry the cross." This passage highlights the significant role that a man from Cyrene played in the Passion of Christ. 2. Cyrenian Jews in Jerusalem: Cyrene was home to a substantial Jewish community, many of whom traveled to Jerusalem for religious festivals. Acts 2:10 mentions visitors from Cyrene present at Pentecost: "Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome." This indicates the presence of Cyrenian Jews during the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, marking the birth of the early Church. 3. The Church in Antioch: Cyrenian believers were instrumental in the spread of Christianity beyond Jewish communities. Acts 11:20 notes, "But some of them, men from Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began speaking to the Greeks as well, proclaiming the good news about the Lord Jesus." This highlights the missionary zeal of Cyrenian Christians and their role in the establishment of the church in Antioch, which became a significant center for early Christian missions. 4. Lucius of Cyrene: In Acts 13:1 , Lucius of Cyrene is listed among the prophets and teachers in the church at Antioch: "Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch), and Saul." Lucius's inclusion in this list underscores the influence and leadership of Cyrenian Christians in the early Church. Cultural and Historical Context Cyrene was a city of considerable wealth and influence, known for its fertile land and production of silphium, a valuable plant used for medicinal purposes. The city was a melting pot of Greek, Roman, and African cultures, which is reflected in its diverse population and the presence of a significant Jewish community. The intellectual climate of Cyrene, with its emphasis on philosophy and learning, may have contributed to the openness of its inhabitants to new ideas, including the message of the Gospel. The city's strategic location along trade routes facilitated the movement of people and ideas, aiding the spread of Christianity. In summary, Cyrene's contributions to early Christianity are evident through its individuals who played pivotal roles in the New Testament narrative and the expansion of the early Church. The city's historical and cultural context provided a fertile ground for the growth of the Christian faith. Nave's Topical Index Acts 2:10Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, Nave's Topical Index Library An Embassage in Cyrene and Asia to Caesar, Concerning the ... Temples Built by Constantine the Great; the City Called by his ... Judaism and Heathenism in Contact. Of the Synod which was Held at Nic??a in Bithynia, and the Creed ... The Persecutions of the Apostolic Church, and Its Condition at the ... The Angel of the Everlasting Gospel. The Abiding Gift and Its Transitory Accompaniments The Day of Pentecost. The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire Acts ii. 1, 2 Resources Who was Rufus in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhy is Jesus often referred to as Jesus of Nazareth? | GotQuestions.org What is the Via Dolorosa? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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