Topical Encyclopedia Phenicia, also known as Phoenicia, is an ancient region located along the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, primarily in what is now modern-day Lebanon, with parts extending into Syria and northern Israel. This region is significant in biblical history and is frequently mentioned in the Scriptures, particularly in the context of trade, culture, and early Christian missionary journeys.Geographical Context Phenicia was a narrow strip of land bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the west and the Lebanon Mountains to the east. Its major cities included Tyre, Sidon, and Byblos, which were renowned for their maritime prowess and commercial activities. The Phoenicians were skilled sailors and traders, establishing trade routes and colonies throughout the Mediterranean, including Carthage in North Africa. Biblical References Phenicia is mentioned in several passages in the Bible, highlighting its role in the ancient world and its interactions with Israel and early Christianity. In the Old Testament, the Phoenicians are noted for their craftsmanship and trade. King Solomon engaged the services of Hiram, king of Tyre, to supply cedar wood and skilled laborers for the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem (1 Kings 5:1-12). In the New Testament, Phenicia is significant in the spread of Christianity. After the persecution that followed Stephen's martyrdom, some of the early Christians fled to Phenicia, among other places, to spread the Gospel. Acts 11:19 states, "Meanwhile those scattered by the persecution that began with Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, speaking the word to no one except Jews." The Apostle Paul also traveled through Phenicia during his missionary journeys. In Acts 21:2-3 , it is recorded, "Finding a ship crossing over to Phoenicia, we went aboard and set sail. After sighting Cyprus and passing to the south of it, we sailed on to Syria and landed at Tyre, where the ship was to unload its cargo." This passage highlights the strategic location of Phenicia as a hub for travel and trade in the ancient world. Cultural and Religious Influence The Phoenicians were known for their contributions to writing and language, particularly the development of the Phoenician alphabet, which greatly influenced the Greek and Latin alphabets. Their religious practices, however, often involved the worship of Baal and other deities, which were in direct opposition to the monotheistic worship of Yahweh by the Israelites. This led to various conflicts and interactions between the two cultures, as seen in the accounts of Jezebel, a Phoenician princess who married King Ahab of Israel and promoted the worship of Baal (1 Kings 16:31). Significance in Early Christianity Phenicia's role in the early Christian church is underscored by its mention in the context of the spread of the Gospel. The region served as a refuge and a mission field for early Christians, contributing to the broader dissemination of Christian teachings across the Roman Empire. The presence of Christian communities in Phenicia is indicative of the early church's expansion beyond Jewish territories and into Gentile regions, fulfilling the Great Commission to spread the Gospel to all nations. In summary, Phenicia holds a prominent place in biblical history as a center of trade, culture, and early Christian activity. Its interactions with Israel and the early church reflect the complex and dynamic nature of the ancient Near Eastern world. ATS Bible Dictionary Phenicia or PheniceSee PHOENICIA, PHENICIA, or PHENICE. Greek 5403. Phoinike -- Phoenicia, a region North of Galilee ... Phoenicia. From phoinix; palm-country; Phoenice (or Phoenicia), a region of Palestine -- Phenice, Phenicia. see GREEK phoinix. (phoiniken) -- 2 Occurrences. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5403.htm - 6k Library Acts xx. 32 The Breaking Out of Discord Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |