Topical Encyclopedia Sidon, one of the most ancient and significant cities of the ancient Near East, is frequently mentioned in the Bible as a prominent city on the northern boundary of the Canaanites. It is located in what is now modern-day Lebanon, along the Mediterranean coast. Sidon, along with its sister city Tyre, played a crucial role in the history and commerce of the region.Biblical References and Historical Context Sidon is first mentioned in the Bible in the Table of Nations, where it is noted as the firstborn of Canaan: "Canaan was the father of Sidon his firstborn, and of the Hittites" (Genesis 10:15). This establishes Sidon as a foundational city in the Canaanite lineage and highlights its early significance. Throughout the Old Testament, Sidon is frequently associated with the Canaanites and their idolatrous practices. The city was known for its worship of Baal and Ashtoreth, which often led the Israelites into idolatry. In Judges 10:6, the Israelites are said to have served the gods of Sidon, among others, which provoked the LORD to anger. Commerce and Influence Sidon was renowned for its commerce and trade, particularly in the production of purple dye and glass. The city's strategic location on the Mediterranean coast made it a hub for maritime trade. The Sidonians were skilled sailors and shipbuilders, and their influence extended across the Mediterranean. Ezekiel 27:8-9 highlights the maritime prowess of Sidon, noting that the city provided skilled mariners and craftsmen for the ships of Tyre. The wealth and prosperity of Sidon are evident in its interactions with Israel. King Solomon, recognizing the expertise of the Sidonians, enlisted their help in building the Temple: "Now send me a craftsman who is skilled in working with gold, silver, bronze, and iron, as well as with purple, crimson, and blue yarn, and who is experienced in engraving. He will work with the craftsmen who are with me in Judah and Jerusalem, whom my father David provided" (2 Chronicles 2:7). This collaboration underscores the city's reputation for skilled artisanship and trade. Prophetic Pronouncements Despite its prosperity, Sidon was not immune to prophetic pronouncements of judgment. The prophets often spoke against Sidon for its pride and idolatry. In Isaiah 23, Sidon is included in the lament over Tyre, predicting its downfall due to its arrogance and reliance on wealth. Similarly, Ezekiel 28:22-23 declares, "This is what the Lord GOD says: 'Behold, I am against you, Sidon, and I will display My glory within you. They will know that I am the LORD when I execute judgments against her and demonstrate My holiness through her.'" New Testament Mentions In the New Testament, Sidon is mentioned in the context of Jesus' ministry. Jesus visited the region of Tyre and Sidon, performing miracles and teaching (Mark 7:24-31). This visit highlights the continued significance of Sidon as a cultural and geographical landmark during the time of Christ. Sidon's enduring legacy as a center of commerce and culture is evident throughout biblical history. Its interactions with Israel, both as a source of skilled labor and as a symbol of idolatry, reflect the complex relationship between the Israelites and their Canaanite neighbors. The city's prominence in trade and its eventual judgment serve as reminders of the biblical themes of prosperity, pride, and divine justice. Nave's Topical Index Isaiah 23:2,4,12Be still, you inhabitants of the isle; you whom the merchants of Zidon, that pass over the sea, have replenished. Nave's Topical Index Library Babylonia and Assyria Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus The Last Days of the Old Eastern World Resources What is the Jezebel spirit? | GotQuestions.orgPlaces Outside Israel ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org Why did Jesus say that He was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel (Matthew 15:24)? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Sidon: A City on the Northern Boundary of the Canaanites Sidon: A City on the Northern Boundary of the Canaanites: Ahab Marries a Woman of Sidon: A City on the Northern Boundary of the Canaanites: Commerce of Sidon: A City on the Northern Boundary of the Canaanites: Inhabitants of, offend Herod Agrippa I Sidon: A City on the Northern Boundary of the Canaanites: Israelites Failed to Make Conquest of Sidon: A City on the Northern Boundary of the Canaanites: People of, Come to Hear Jesus Sidon: A City on the Northern Boundary of the Canaanites: Prophecies Concerning Sidon: A City on the Northern Boundary of the Canaanites: Solomon Marries Women of Sidon: A City on the Northern Boundary of the Canaanites: The Sailors of Sidon: A City on the Northern Boundary of the Canaanites: Visited by Paul Sidon: Also Called Zidon: Son of Canaan Sidon: Designated by Jacob As the Border of the Tribe of Zebulun Sidon: Jesus Visits the Region of, and Heals the Daughter of the Non-Jewish, Syro-Phoenician Woman Sidon: The Inhabitants of, Contributed Cedar for the First and Second Temple Related Terms Misrephoth-maim (2 Occurrences) |
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