Who were the Zidonians in the Bible?

Etymology and Terminology

“Zidonians” is an English transliteration commonly referring to the inhabitants of Sidon (also spelled Zidon), a significant coastal city in ancient Phoenicia. In biblical passages, the term often appears interchangeably with “Sidonians.” The name traces back to Canaan’s firstborn son, Sidon (Genesis 10:15), suggesting a direct lineage from the Table of Nations.

Geographical Location

Sidon stood on the Mediterranean coast, in what is now part of modern-day Lebanon, north of Tyre. This region was crucial for trade, known historically for maritime prowess and an expansive commercial network. The biblical border of Canaan stretched “from Sidon toward Gerar” (Genesis 10:19), placing Sidon as a major city at the northern edge of Israel’s neighboring territories.

Historical Background

According to Scripture, the Zidonians emerged in the post-Flood era as descendants of Canaan (Genesis 10:15–18). They became early developers of seafaring technology and trade routes. Phoenician culture, with Sidon as a cornerstone, introduced alphabets and refined craftsmanship in metals and wood. The Old Testament frequently associates the Zidonians with commerce, skilled artisans, and sometimes with the worship of false deities, especially Ashtoreth (1 Kings 11:33).

Biblical References

• Genesis 10:15–19 introduces Sidon as the eldest son of Canaan. This firmly places the city in the genealogical lineage that shaped the broader region’s people groups.

• Judges 10:12 includes Sidonians among adversaries against whom Israel cried out for deliverance.

• 1 Kings 5:6 portrays them as “skilled in cutting timber,” reflecting the city’s renown for cedar and woodworking expertise, which King Solomon utilized in constructing the temple.

• 1 Kings 16:31 recounts how King Ahab married Jezebel, “the daughter of Ethbaal king of the Sidonians,” leading to Baal worship in Israel.

• 2 Chronicles 2:14 references the employment of a half-Israelite, half-Sidonian craftsman in temple projects, further underscoring Sidon’s reputation for artistry.

Cultural and Religious Influence

The Zidonians’ pantheon featured Ashtoreth (1 Kings 11:33), a goddess often worshiped in conjunction with Baal. This idolatry significantly influenced neighboring nations, including segments of ancient Israel drawn away from worship of the true God. Their advanced commerce and seafaring capabilities also fostered cultural exchanges—sometimes beneficial (in trade and craftsmanship), sometimes problematic (in introducing idol worship).

Connections to Israel

While predominantly foreign and occasionally adversarial, the Zidonians interacted with Israel in critical moments. Solomon’s peaceful collaboration (1 Kings 5:1–6) illustrates a time of mutual benefit, whereas Ahab’s union with Jezebel (1 Kings 16:31) showcases a tragic partnership that introduced idol worship on a national scale.

Archaeological and Historical Evidence

Archaeological excavations in the region of modern-day Sidon have uncovered ancient ports, fortifications, and inscriptions that align with the city’s biblical portrayal as a fortified center of trade and craftsmanship. Some Phoenician inscriptions reference local deities and city governance consistent with the biblical accounts of idol worship and a thriving maritime economy. These findings corroborate the Sidonians’ significant role in the regional network of ancient Levantine cultures.

Lessons and Significance

The Zidonians illuminate how trade, culture, and faith practices in the ancient Levant shaped international relations and spiritual dynamics. From Solomon’s partnership with Sidonian artisans to the catastrophic spiritual decline under Ahab and Jezebel, Sidon’s history functions as a narrative example of how alliances can bring both blessing and downfall. Scripture thus uses the Zidonians' story to warn against idolatry while also highlighting beneficial cooperation when grounded in proper worship of God.

Taken together, biblical references, supported by historical and archaeological evidence, confirm a robust portrait of the Zidonians as an influential maritime people who profoundly impacted Israel through both constructive collaboration and perilous spiritual compromise.