Topical Bible: Tyre: City of The Hostility of Herod Agrippa I Toward

◄ Tyre: City of The Hostility of Herod Agrippa I Toward ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

Tyre, an ancient Phoenician city located on the Mediterranean coast, holds a significant place in biblical history and prophecy. Known for its wealth, maritime prowess, and strategic location, Tyre was a major center of trade and culture in the ancient world. The city's relationship with Israel and its rulers varied over time, ranging from alliances to hostility.

Biblical Background

Tyre is frequently mentioned in the Old Testament, often in the context of its interactions with Israel. King Hiram of Tyre was a friend and ally of King David and later provided materials and craftsmen for Solomon's Temple (1 Kings 5:1-12). However, the prophets often condemned Tyre for its pride and idolatry, predicting its downfall (Ezekiel 26-28; Isaiah 23).

Herod Agrippa I and Tyre

In the New Testament, Tyre is mentioned in the context of Herod Agrippa I, a ruler known for his hostility toward the early Christian church. Herod Agrippa I, the grandson of Herod the Great, ruled over Judea and surrounding regions from AD 37 to 44. His reign is noted for his persecution of Christians, including the execution of James, the brother of John, and the imprisonment of Peter (Acts 12:1-4).

The hostility of Herod Agrippa I toward Tyre is documented in Acts 12:20-23. The Berean Standard Bible recounts this episode: "Now Herod was very angry with the people of Tyre and Sidon. So they came to him with one accord, and having won over Blastus, the king’s chamberlain, they asked for peace, because their country was supplied with food from the king’s country. On the appointed day, Herod donned his royal robes, sat on his throne, and addressed the people. And they began to shout, 'This is the voice of a god, not a man!' Immediately, because Herod did not give glory to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died."

This passage highlights the political tension between Herod Agrippa I and the people of Tyre. The city, dependent on Herod's territory for food supplies, sought to appease the king despite his anger. The account also underscores the biblical theme of divine judgment against pride and the failure to honor God, as Herod's acceptance of divine accolades led to his sudden demise.

Theological Significance

From a theological perspective, the narrative of Herod Agrippa I's hostility toward Tyre and his subsequent judgment serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the futility of human pride. Tyre's historical role as both an ally and adversary to Israel reflects the complex interplay of political and spiritual dynamics in biblical history. The city's interactions with Herod Agrippa I further illustrate the broader theme of God's justice and the ultimate accountability of rulers and nations before Him.

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Acts 12:20-23
And Herod was highly displeased with them of Tyre and Sidon: but they came with one accord to him, and, having made Blastus the king's chamberlain their friend, desired peace; because their country was nourished by the king's country.
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Library

The Church History of Eusebius. Index of Subjects.
... Basilica of Tyre, [464]375 sq. ... in the early church, [485]150; only one in a city,
[486]287 ... Caius, emperor of Rome, [534]107, [535]108; hostility of, toward the ...
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