Phoeni'cia, an ancient region located along the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, is known for its significant role in biblical history and its influence on the surrounding cultures. The territory of Phoeni'cia roughly corresponds to modern-day Lebanon, with parts extending into Syria and Israel. The Phoenicians, the inhabitants of this region, were renowned for their skills in navigation, trade, and the development of the alphabet, which greatly influenced the writing systems of the ancient world.

Biblical References:

Phoeni'cia is mentioned in the New Testament, particularly in the context of the early Christian church and the spread of the Gospel. In Acts 11:19 , it is recorded that after the persecution following Stephen's martyrdom, believers were scattered "as far as Phoeni'cia, Cyprus, and Antioch, speaking the word to no one except Jews." This indicates that Phoeni'cia was one of the regions where early Christians sought refuge and began to spread the message of Christ.

In Acts 15:3 , Paul and Barnabas, on their way to the Jerusalem Council, passed through Phoeni'cia, where they "described in detail the conversion of the Gentiles and brought great joy to all the brothers." This passage highlights the role of Phoeni'cia as a place where the early church was active and where the news of Gentile conversions was received with joy.

Additionally, in Acts 21:2 , during Paul's journey to Jerusalem, it is noted that "finding a ship crossing over to Phoeni'cia, we went aboard and set sail." This reference underscores the region's importance as a hub of maritime activity and its strategic location for travel and trade in the ancient world.

Cultural and Historical Context:

The Phoenicians were a Semitic people known for their seafaring prowess and established numerous colonies across the Mediterranean, including the famous city of Carthage. Their trade networks extended as far as the British Isles and the African coast, facilitating the exchange of goods and cultural influences. The Phoenician alphabet, a precursor to Greek and Latin scripts, was one of their most significant contributions to civilization.

In the Old Testament, the cities of Tyre and Sidon, prominent Phoenician city-states, are frequently mentioned. These cities were known for their wealth and commerce, as well as their interactions with Israel. King Hiram of Tyre, for instance, played a crucial role in supplying materials for the construction of Solomon's Temple, as noted in 1 Kings 5:1-12 .

The Phoenicians' religious practices, which included the worship of deities such as Baal and Astarte, often brought them into conflict with the monotheistic beliefs of the Israelites. The prophets frequently condemned the idolatry and moral corruption associated with Phoenician religion, as seen in passages like Ezekiel 28, which prophesies against the pride and eventual downfall of Tyre.

Significance in Early Christianity:

Phoeni'cia's strategic location and established trade routes made it a significant area for the dissemination of the Gospel. The presence of Jewish communities in the region provided initial points of contact for early Christian missionaries. As the message of Christ spread beyond Jewish audiences, Phoeni'cia became a melting pot of cultural and religious exchange, contributing to the growth of the early church.

The region's mention in the New Testament highlights its role in the broader narrative of the early Christian movement, illustrating the geographical and cultural diversity of the early church's mission field. Phoeni'cia's inclusion in the biblical account underscores the universal scope of the Gospel and the fulfillment of Christ's command to be His witnesses "to the ends of the earth" (Acts 1:8).Phoeni'cia (3 Occurrences)

Acts 11:19
Then those who had gone away at the time of the trouble about Stephen, went as far as Phoenicia and Cyprus, preaching to the Jews only.
(See RSV)

Acts 15:3
So they, being sent on their way by the church, went through Phoenicia and Samaria, giving news of the salvation of the Gentiles, to the great joy of all the brothers.
(See RSV)

Acts 21:2
And as there was a ship going to Phoenicia, we went in it.
(See RSV)

Phoeni'cia (3 Occurrences)
Phoeni'cia. Phoenicia, Phoeni'cia. Phoenicians . Multi-Version Concordance
Phoeni'cia (3 Occurrences). Acts 11:19 Then those who ...
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Phoenicians

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Phoenicia (6 Occurrences)

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