Topical Encyclopedia No, also known as No-Amon, is an ancient city referenced in the Bible, located in the region of Egypt. It is identified with the city of Thebes, which was a prominent and influential city in ancient Egypt, situated along the Nile River. The city is mentioned in the prophetic literature of the Old Testament, where it serves as a symbol of strength and eventual downfall due to divine judgment.Biblical References: 1. Nahum 3:8-10 : The prophet Nahum references No in his oracle against Nineveh, drawing a parallel between the fate of No and the impending judgment on Nineveh. The passage reads: "Are you better than Thebes, situated by the Nile, with water around her, whose rampart was the sea, whose wall was the water? Cush and Egypt were her boundless strength; Put and Libya were her allies. Yet she became an exile; she went into captivity. Her infants were dashed to pieces at the head of every street. They cast lots for her nobles, and all her great men were bound in chains." In this context, No is depicted as a city of great power and strategic advantage, surrounded by natural defenses and allied with strong nations. However, despite its might, it was not immune to conquest and destruction, serving as a warning to Nineveh of the consequences of pride and sin. 2. Jeremiah 46:25 : The prophet Jeremiah also mentions No in his prophecy against Egypt: "The LORD of Hosts, the God of Israel, says: 'Behold, I will punish Amon of Thebes, Pharaoh, Egypt, her gods and her kings, and those who trust in Pharaoh.'" Here, No is associated with the worship of Amon, a principal deity in Egyptian religion. The prophecy underscores the futility of relying on false gods and earthly powers, as the true God of Israel declares His intention to bring judgment upon them. 3. Ezekiel 30:14-16 : The prophet Ezekiel speaks of the impending judgment on Egypt, including No: "I will lay waste Pathros, set fire to Zoan, and execute judgment on Thebes. I will pour out My wrath on Pelusium, the stronghold of Egypt, and cut off the crowds of Thebes. I will set fire to Egypt; Pelusium will writhe in anguish, Thebes will be taken by storm, and Memphis will be in constant distress." In this passage, No is again highlighted as a significant city within Egypt, destined to experience divine wrath. The prophecy emphasizes the comprehensive nature of God's judgment, affecting all major centers of power and idolatry in Egypt. Historical and Cultural Context: No, or Thebes, was a major center of political and religious life in ancient Egypt. It served as the capital during various periods and was home to the Karnak and Luxor temple complexes, dedicated to the worship of Amon and other deities. The city's wealth and influence were largely derived from its strategic location along the Nile, facilitating trade and communication. The biblical references to No highlight the city's prominence and the eventual consequences of its idolatry and reliance on earthly power. The prophetic messages serve as a reminder of the sovereignty of the God of Israel over all nations and the ultimate futility of opposing His will. Theological Significance: The mention of No in the Bible carries significant theological implications. It serves as a testament to the reality of divine judgment against nations that exalt themselves and turn away from the true God. The downfall of such a powerful city illustrates the biblical principle that no earthly power can withstand the righteous judgment of God. The prophets use No as a cautionary example for other nations, including Israel and Judah, to remain faithful and humble before the Lord. Nave's Topical Index Jeremiah 46:25The LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, said; Behold, I will punish the multitude of No, and Pharaoh, and Egypt, with their gods, and their kings; even Pharaoh, and all them that trust in him: Nave's Topical Index Ezekiel 30:14-16 Nahum 3:8 Library The City and River of God The Cost of Being Cruel and Stubborn A Prisoner who Became a Mighty Ruler On the Way to Thebes Marah; Or, the Bitter Waters Sweetened The Rivers of God How Taricheae was Taken. A Description of the River Jordan, and of ... But, that we May not Pass Without Notice what Celsus Has Said ... How the Soldiers, Both in Judea and Egypt, Proclaimed Vespasian ... Canaan on Earth Resources What does it mean that no one seeks God? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did Jesus tell people to “go and sin no more” if sinlessness is impossible? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean to let your yes be yes and your no be no? | GotQuestions.org No: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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