Topical Encyclopedia Philometor, a term meaning "mother-loving," is a title associated with Ptolemy VI Philometor, a ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom in Egypt. His reign is significant in the context of biblical history, particularly in relation to the intertestamental period and the geopolitical dynamics affecting the Jewish people.Historical Context Ptolemy VI Philometor reigned from approximately 180 to 145 BC. He was a member of the Ptolemaic dynasty, which was established by Ptolemy I Soter, a general under Alexander the Great. The Ptolemaic Kingdom was one of the Hellenistic states that emerged following the division of Alexander's empire. Ptolemy VI's reign was marked by internal strife and external conflicts, particularly with the Seleucid Empire to the north. Biblical and Historical Significance While Philometor is not directly mentioned in the canonical books of the Bible, his reign is relevant to the historical backdrop of the intertestamental period. This era, often referred to as the "silent years" between the Old and New Testaments, was a time of significant political and cultural change for the Jewish people. The Ptolemaic and Seleucid dynasties frequently clashed over control of the region of Judea, which was strategically located between their respective territories. These conflicts are alluded to in the prophetic visions of the Book of Daniel, particularly in Daniel 11, which describes the "king of the South" and the "king of the North." While interpretations vary, some scholars associate the "king of the South" with the Ptolemaic rulers, including Philometor. Influence on Jewish Affairs During Philometor's reign, the Jewish people in Egypt and Judea experienced varying degrees of autonomy and influence. The Ptolemaic rulers, including Philometor, were known for their relatively tolerant policies towards the Jewish population. This period saw the continued development of the Jewish community in Alexandria, which became a center of Jewish learning and culture. Philometor's interactions with the Jewish people are also reflected in the apocryphal texts, such as the Book of 2 Maccabees, which provides historical insights into the struggles of the Jewish people against Hellenistic influences and the defense of their religious traditions. Legacy Ptolemy VI Philometor's legacy is intertwined with the complex history of the Hellenistic period and its impact on the Jewish world. His reign exemplifies the challenges faced by the Jewish people as they navigated the political and cultural pressures of the time. The historical events of this era set the stage for the eventual rise of the Hasmonean dynasty and the Maccabean revolt, which are pivotal in understanding the context of the New Testament. In summary, while Philometor is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, his reign is an integral part of the historical and cultural milieu that shaped the Jewish experience during the intertestamental period. His interactions with the Jewish people and the broader geopolitical dynamics of his time provide valuable insights into the historical context of biblical prophecy and Jewish history. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia PHILOMETORfil-o-me'-tor. Library The Friendship that was Between Onias and Ptolemy Philometor; and ... How Alexander Honored Jonathan after an Extraordinary Manner; and ... Chapter i. Introduction Nor is this an Opinion Confined to Ourselves Alone. ... On the Greek Translation of the Old Testament. While These Things are Going on in Jud??a, a Certain Young Man ... An Enumeration of the High Priests. How Alexander when He had Taken the Government Made an Expedition ... How Thesaurus PhilometorPhilometor. Philol'ogus, Philometor. Philosopher . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia PHILOMETOR. fil-o-me'-tor. See PTOLEMY, VI. ... /p/philometor.htm - 6k Ptolemy Demetrius (3 Occurrences) Epiphanes Manius Philosopher (1 Occurrence) Philol'ogus (1 Occurrence) Cleopatra Coronation Acco (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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