Topical Bible: The Sidonians: Having Revolted from Herod, Were Obliged to Propitiate Him

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Topical Encyclopedia

The Sidonians, inhabitants of the ancient city of Sidon, are frequently mentioned in biblical texts as a significant people in the region of Phoenicia. Sidon, along with its sister city Tyre, was known for its wealth, maritime prowess, and influence in the ancient Near East. The Sidonians were skilled in trade and craftsmanship, particularly in the production of purple dye and glass.

In the New Testament, the Sidonians are noted for their interaction with Herod Agrippa I, a ruler of Judea and a client king of the Roman Empire. This interaction is recorded in the Book of Acts, where it is described that the Sidonians, along with the people of Tyre, had fallen out of favor with Herod. The specific reasons for this discord are not detailed in the biblical text, but it is clear that the Sidonians found themselves in a precarious position due to their dependence on Herod's territory for food supplies.

Acts 12:20 states, "Now Herod was very angry with the people of Tyre and Sidon. So they sent a delegation to make peace with him, because their country depended on the king’s country for food." This verse highlights the political and economic vulnerability of the Sidonians, who were compelled to seek reconciliation with Herod to ensure their survival. The Sidonians, recognizing their need to propitiate Herod, sent representatives to negotiate peace. This act of diplomacy underscores the pragmatic approach of the Sidonians in dealing with political adversities.

The account continues with the dramatic and divine intervention that followed their attempt to appease Herod. Acts 12:21-23 narrates, "On the appointed day, Herod donned his royal robes, sat on his throne, and addressed the people. And they began to shout, 'This is the voice of a god, not a man!' Immediately, because Herod did not give glory to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died." This passage serves as a stark reminder of the biblical theme that human pride and the failure to honor God can lead to divine judgment.

The Sidonians' experience with Herod reflects the broader biblical narrative of God's sovereignty over nations and rulers. Despite their initial revolt and subsequent need to placate Herod, the Sidonians witnessed the ultimate authority of God in the affairs of men. This episode illustrates the transient nature of human power and the enduring truth of divine justice, as seen through the lens of biblical history.

Throughout the Scriptures, the Sidonians are often depicted as a people outside the covenant community of Israel, yet their interactions with God's chosen people and their leaders provide valuable lessons on humility, dependence on divine providence, and the consequences of human arrogance.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Acts 12:20
And Herod was highly displeased with them of Tyre and Sidon: but they came with one accord to him, and, having made Blastus the king's chamberlain their friend, desired peace; because their country was nourished by the king's country.
Torrey's Topical Textbook