Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Samaria, a significant region and city in biblical history, holds a prominent place in the narrative of the Israelites and the early Christian church. It is located in the central part of ancient Israel, between Judea to the south and Galilee to the north. The region and its people, the Samaritans, are frequently mentioned in both the Old and New Testaments, often highlighting themes of division, redemption, and the expansion of God's covenant. Historical Background: The city of Samaria was established by King Omri around 880 BC and became the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel (1 Kings 16:24). It was strategically located on a hill, providing a strong defensive position. Samaria flourished under the reign of Omri and his son Ahab, becoming a center of political and economic power. However, it was also a place of significant idolatry, as Ahab and his wife Jezebel introduced the worship of Baal (1 Kings 16:31-33). In 722 BC, the Assyrian Empire conquered Samaria, leading to the exile of many Israelites and the resettlement of foreign peoples in the region (2 Kings 17:6). This mixture of populations contributed to the distinct identity of the Samaritans, who developed their own version of the Pentateuch and worshiped at Mount Gerizim rather than Jerusalem. Biblical Significance: Samaria is frequently mentioned in the prophetic literature as a symbol of Israel's unfaithfulness and impending judgment. The prophets Amos and Hosea, for example, denounce the idolatry and social injustices prevalent in Samaria (Amos 3:9-12; Hosea 7:1). In the New Testament, Samaria plays a crucial role in the ministry of Jesus and the early church. Jesus' interaction with the Samaritan woman at the well in John 4:4-42 is a profound moment of breaking social and religious barriers, as He offers her "living water" and reveals Himself as the Messiah. This encounter underscores the inclusivity of the Gospel message. The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) further illustrates the theme of compassion and neighborly love, challenging prevailing prejudices and emphasizing the moral and spiritual obligations of God's people. The Early Church and Samaria: The Book of Acts records the spread of the Gospel to Samaria following the persecution of the church in Jerusalem. Philip the Evangelist preached in Samaria, leading to many conversions and the reception of the Holy Spirit (Acts 8:5-17). This event marks a significant step in the fulfillment of Jesus' command to be His witnesses "in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth" (Acts 1:8). Cultural and Religious Context: The Samaritans maintained a distinct religious identity, which often led to tensions with the Jewish population. They accepted only the first five books of the Bible and rejected the Jerusalem temple, choosing instead to worship on Mount Gerizim. Despite these differences, the New Testament narrative reveals God's redemptive plan extending to all peoples, including the Samaritans. Conclusion: Samaria's complex history and its role in biblical events highlight the themes of division, judgment, and ultimately, reconciliation. Through the ministry of Jesus and the early church, Samaria becomes a testament to the breaking down of barriers and the universal reach of the Gospel. Concordance Sama'ria's (1 Occurrence)Hosea 10:7 Thesaurus Sama'ria's (1 Occurrence)Sama'ria's. Samar'ia, Sama'ria's. Samaritan . Multi-Version Concordance Sama'ria's (1 Occurrence). Hosea 10:7 Cut off is Samaria! ... /s/sama'ria's.htm - 6k Samar'ia (4 Occurrences) Samaritan (8 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |