Topical Bible: Syria: Prophecies Respecting: Its Calamities, the Punishments of Its Sins

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Syria, known in biblical times as Aram, holds a significant place in the prophetic literature of the Bible. The nation, with its capital at Damascus, was often in conflict with Israel and Judah, leading to numerous prophecies concerning its fate. The prophets of the Old Testament, under divine inspiration, pronounced judgments against Syria for its transgressions and hostilities against God's people.

Prophecies of Calamities:

1. Isaiah's Oracle Against Damascus:
The prophet Isaiah delivered a stern prophecy against Damascus, the capital of Syria. In Isaiah 17:1-3 , it is written: "An oracle concerning Damascus: 'Behold, Damascus is no longer a city; it has become a heap of ruins. The cities of Aroer are forsaken; they will be for flocks, which will lie down, with no one to frighten them. The fortress will disappear from Ephraim, and the kingdom from Damascus; the remnant of Aram will be like the glory of the Israelites,' declares the LORD of Hosts." This prophecy foretells the desolation and ruin that would befall Damascus, highlighting the divine judgment against the city.

2. Amos' Judgment on Damascus:
The prophet Amos also spoke against Damascus, emphasizing the punishment for its transgressions. Amos 1:3-5 states: "This is what the LORD says: 'For three transgressions of Damascus, even four, I will not revoke My judgment, because they threshed Gilead with sledges of iron. So I will send fire upon the house of Hazael to consume the citadels of Ben-hadad. I will break down the gate of Damascus; I will cut off the ruler from the Valley of Aven and the one who wields the scepter from Beth-eden. The people of Aram will be exiled to Kir,' says the LORD." Here, the prophet condemns Damascus for its brutal treatment of Gilead, promising destruction and exile as recompense.

3. Jeremiah's Prophecy Against Damascus:
Jeremiah also prophesied against Damascus, foretelling its impending doom. In Jeremiah 49:23-27 , the prophet declares: "Concerning Damascus: 'Hamath and Arpad are put to shame, for they have heard bad news; they are disheartened, troubled like the restless sea. Damascus has become feeble; she has turned to flee, panic has gripped her; anguish and pain have seized her, like a woman in labor. How is the city of praise not forsaken, the town of My joy! Therefore, her young men will fall in her streets; all the warriors will be silenced in that day,' declares the LORD of Hosts. 'I will set fire to the walls of Damascus; it will consume the fortresses of Ben-hadad.'" This passage underscores the fear and destruction that would come upon Damascus, as decreed by the Lord.

Punishments for Sins:

The prophecies against Syria are rooted in its sins, particularly its aggression and cruelty towards Israel and Judah. The biblical narrative portrays Syria as a nation that repeatedly opposed God's chosen people, leading to divine retribution. The prophets consistently highlight the moral and spiritual failings of Syria, such as pride, idolatry, and violence, as reasons for its downfall.

The prophetic literature serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and justice, illustrating that nations are held accountable for their actions. The calamities foretold against Syria are not merely historical events but are seen as manifestations of divine judgment against sin and rebellion. Through these prophecies, the Bible communicates the seriousness of sin and the certainty of God's righteous judgment.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Amos 1:3
Thus said the LORD; For three transgressions of Damascus, and for four, I will not turn away the punishment thereof; because they have threshed Gilead with threshing instruments of iron:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The City of God. Index of Subjects.
... Antiochus of Syria, [111]388. ... the, made more famous by the sufferings of its preachers,
[798 ... Hosea, his prophecies respecting the things of the gospel, [858]375 ...
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