Topical Encyclopedia Geographical and Historical ContextTiberias is a significant city located on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee, also known as Lake Tiberias. Founded by Herod Antipas around AD 20, the city was named in honor of the Roman Emperor Tiberius. Tiberias quickly became an important urban center in the region of Galilee, serving as a hub for political, economic, and cultural activities. Biblical Significance While Tiberias itself is not frequently mentioned in the New Testament, its proximity to the Sea of Galilee places it near many events in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. The Sea of Galilee is a focal point in the Gospels, where Jesus performed numerous miracles and teachings. For instance, Jesus walked on water (Matthew 14:22-33), calmed a storm (Mark 4:35-41), and fed the five thousand (John 6:1-14) in the vicinity of this body of water. The Gospel of John specifically mentions Tiberias in the context of the feeding of the five thousand: "The next day the crowd that had remained on the other side of the sea realized that only one boat had been there, and that Jesus had not boarded it with His disciples, but they had gone away alone. However, some boats from Tiberias arrived near the place they had eaten the bread after the Lord had given thanks" (John 6:22-23). This passage highlights the city's role as a point of reference for the movements of Jesus and His disciples. Cultural and Religious Influence Tiberias became a center of Jewish learning and culture, especially after the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70. It was one of the four holy cities of Judaism, alongside Jerusalem, Hebron, and Safed. The city housed the Sanhedrin, the supreme Jewish council, and became a major center for the compilation of the Talmud, specifically the Jerusalem Talmud. Archaeological Insights Modern archaeological excavations in Tiberias have uncovered significant remains from the Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic periods. These findings include ancient synagogues, bathhouses, and other public buildings, providing insight into the city's historical and cultural development over the centuries. Theological Reflections From a theological perspective, Tiberias serves as a reminder of the intersection between the divine and the mundane. While not directly associated with the ministry of Jesus, its proximity to the Sea of Galilee places it within the broader narrative of His earthly mission. The city's historical and cultural evolution also reflects the enduring presence and influence of faith communities in the region. Modern Relevance Today, Tiberias is a vibrant city that attracts pilgrims and tourists alike, drawn by its biblical associations and historical significance. It remains a testament to the rich tapestry of history and faith that characterizes the land of Israel. Nave's Topical Index John 6:23(However, there came other boats from Tiberias near to the place where they did eat bread, after that the Lord had given thanks:) Nave's Topical Index Library Within what Tribe the Lake of Gennesaret Was. In Galilee at the Time of Our Lord Of the Situation of Tiberias. A Description Op Galilee, Samaria, and Judea. Jesus at Capernaum. The Lake Samochonitis [Or Semechonitis. ] Now Herod and Philip Built Several Cities in Honor of Caesar. ... From the Talmud and Hebraica And Now Being Desirous to Catch Simon by a Wile... Concerning John of Gichala. Josephus Uses Stratagems against the ... Resources What is the significance of the Sea of Galilee in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Aleppo Codex? | GotQuestions.org Who was Joanna in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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