Topical Encyclopedia Sostratus is a figure mentioned in the context of the Hellenistic period, particularly in relation to the governance and military administration of the Seleucid Empire. While Sostratus is not directly mentioned in the canonical books of the Bible, his role and actions are often discussed in historical and apocryphal texts that provide insight into the political and cultural environment of the time.Historical Context Sostratus is primarily known from the accounts of the Maccabean period, a time of significant upheaval and conflict between the Jewish people and the Seleucid Empire. This era is characterized by the struggle for religious freedom and the preservation of Jewish customs against the backdrop of Hellenistic influence and oppression. Role and Influence Sostratus served as a high-ranking official under the Seleucid king, Antiochus IV Epiphanes. He is often identified as the governor of the citadel in Jerusalem, a position that placed him at the heart of the conflict between the Hellenistic rulers and the Jewish population. His responsibilities likely included maintaining order, collecting taxes, and enforcing the decrees of the Seleucid king. Interactions with Jewish Leaders The historical accounts suggest that Sostratus was involved in the enforcement of Antiochus IV's policies, which aimed to Hellenize the Jewish people and suppress their religious practices. This included the desecration of the Jewish Temple and the imposition of pagan worship, actions that led to the Maccabean Revolt. The revolt was a direct response to the oppressive measures enforced by officials like Sostratus, who were seen as agents of foreign domination and religious persecution. Legacy and Impact Sostratus's role in the events leading up to the Maccabean Revolt highlights the tension between the Jewish desire for religious autonomy and the Hellenistic agenda of cultural assimilation. His actions, as part of the broader Seleucid strategy, inadvertently contributed to the rise of Jewish nationalism and the eventual rededication of the Temple, celebrated in the festival of Hanukkah. Biblical and Apocryphal References While Sostratus is not mentioned in the canonical Bible, his presence is felt in the historical and apocryphal texts that describe the Maccabean period. These texts provide valuable context for understanding the socio-political dynamics of the time and the challenges faced by the Jewish people in maintaining their faith and identity. Conclusion Sostratus remains a significant figure in the study of the Hellenistic period and the Maccabean Revolt. His actions and the policies he enforced serve as a reminder of the enduring struggle for religious freedom and the resilience of the Jewish faith in the face of external pressures. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia SOSTRATUSsos'-tra-tus (Sostratos, in Codex Venetus Sos-): "The governor of the citadel" of Jerusalem under Antiochus IV (Epiphanes). His duty was to gather the revenues of the city and province for the imperial treasury. He made a new departure in demanding from Menelaus direct the sum promised to the king in 2 Maccabees 4:27; (for Jason had the privilege of sending the money by his own messenger to the king (2 Maccabees 4:23)). This claim the usurper Menelaus disputed; consequently he and the governor were both summoned to appear before the king. No more is told, and Sostratus is otherwise unknown. Thesaurus Sostratus... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia SOSTRATUS. sos'-tra-tus ... before the king. No more is told, and Sostratus is otherwise unknown. S. Angus. ... /s/sostratus.htm - 7k Cyprians (1 Occurrence) Crates Menelaus Sos'thenes (2 Occurrences) Sotai (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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