Topical Encyclopedia Pachon is the name of the ninth month in the ancient Egyptian calendar, which was also adopted by the Coptic Church. This month corresponds roughly to the period from May 9 to June 7 in the Gregorian calendar. The name "Pachon" is derived from the Egyptian god "Khonsu," who was associated with the moon. In the context of the Coptic calendar, Pachon is significant for its liturgical observances and agricultural activities, as it falls during the time of the harvest.Biblical Context While the name "Pachon" itself does not appear in the Bible, understanding the Egyptian calendar is essential for biblical chronology, especially in the context of the Exodus and the life of Joseph, who rose to prominence in Egypt. The Egyptian calendar, with its unique structure, provides a backdrop for understanding the timing of events and the agricultural cycles mentioned in the Scriptures. Agricultural Significance Pachon is a month that marks the beginning of the harvest season in Egypt. This period is crucial for the gathering of crops, particularly grains, which were a staple in the Egyptian diet. The harvest season is often alluded to in the Bible, as it was a time of both physical and spiritual significance. For instance, the concept of harvest is frequently used metaphorically in Scripture to describe the gathering of believers or the judgment of nations. Liturgical Observances In the Coptic Church, Pachon is a month filled with various feasts and commemorations. One of the notable observances is the Feast of the Ascension, which is celebrated 40 days after Easter. This feast commemorates the ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven, as described in Acts 1:9-11 : "After He had said this, they watched as He was taken up, and a cloud hid Him from their sight. They were looking intently into the sky as He was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. 'Men of Galilee,' they said, 'why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen Him go into heaven.'" Historical Context The use of the Egyptian calendar, including the month of Pachon, is a testament to the cultural and historical interactions between the Israelites and the Egyptians. During the time of Joseph, as recorded in Genesis, the Israelites were deeply integrated into Egyptian society. Joseph's role as a vizier under Pharaoh involved managing the agricultural resources of Egypt, which would have included the harvest activities during Pachon. Symbolic Meaning In a broader biblical sense, the month of Pachon, with its association with the harvest, can be seen as a symbol of God's provision and faithfulness. The harvest is a recurring theme in the Bible, representing not only physical sustenance but also spiritual truths. As Jesus said in Matthew 9:37-38 , "Then He said to His disciples, 'The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into His harvest.'" Understanding Pachon and its place in the Egyptian and Coptic calendars enriches the study of biblical history and theology, providing insight into the rhythms of life that shaped the experiences of God's people. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia PACHONpa'-kon (Pachon): The name of a month mentioned in 3 Maccabees 6:38. Library Letter Lviii. --Second Letter to Orsisius. Index. Concerning the Monks of Thebais: Apollos, Dorotheus; Concerning ... Historia Acephala. Last Years, Feb. 1, 366-May 2, 373 B. --The Festal Letters, and their Index, Chronology of the Life of Christ. The Jewish Institutions and Laws of Far Higher Antiquity than the ... General Index to Sozomen's Ecclesiastical History. Thesaurus Pachon... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia PACHON. pa'-kon (Pachon): The name of a month mentioned in 3 Maccabees 6:38. ... /p/pachon.htm - 6k Epiphi Pacified (4 Occurrences) Paces (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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