Geographical Location:
Abile'ne is a region mentioned in the New Testament, located in the vicinity of Mount Hermon, in the northern part of ancient Palestine. It is situated to the northwest of Damascus and is part of the larger area known as Coele-Syria. The region is named after its chief city, Abila, which served as its administrative center.

Historical Context:
Abile'ne is noted in the context of the governance of the region during the early first century A.D. It was a tetrarchy, a type of administrative division in the Roman Empire, which was ruled by a tetrarch. The most notable ruler of Abile'ne mentioned in the Bible is Lysanias.

Biblical Reference:
Abile'ne is referenced in the Gospel of Luke, specifically in the context of the political landscape during the time of John the Baptist's ministry. The passage provides a historical framework by listing the rulers of various regions:

"In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, Herod was tetrarch of Galilee, his brother Philip tetrarch of Iturea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias tetrarch of Abilene," (Luke 3:1).

Significance in Biblical Narrative:
The mention of Abile'ne in the Gospel of Luke serves to situate the events of the New Testament within a specific historical and political context. By listing the rulers of the time, the Gospel writer provides a chronological marker that helps to date the beginning of John the Baptist's ministry and, subsequently, the public ministry of Jesus Christ. The reference to Lysanias as the tetrarch of Abile'ne highlights the fragmented nature of political authority in the region, which was under Roman influence and control.

Archaeological and Historical Insights:
The city of Abila, the capital of Abile'ne, has been identified with the modern site of Suq Wadi Barada in Syria. Archaeological excavations have uncovered remnants of Roman architecture, including roads, aqueducts, and other structures, which provide insight into the region's historical significance and its integration into the Roman Empire. Historical records outside the Bible also mention Lysanias, corroborating the biblical account and providing additional context for the governance of Abile'ne during the first century.

Cultural and Political Influence:
As a tetrarchy, Abile'ne was part of the complex political landscape of the Near East during the Roman period. The region's governance by a tetrarch like Lysanias indicates its semi-autonomous status under Roman oversight. This political arrangement allowed for local rulers to maintain a degree of control while still being subject to the overarching authority of the Roman Empire. The mention of Abile'ne in the Gospel of Luke reflects the broader geopolitical realities of the time, illustrating the interconnectedness of various regions and rulers within the Roman world.Abile'ne (1 Occurrence)

Luke 3:1
And in the fifteenth year of the government of Tiberius Caesar -- Pontius Pilate being governor of Judea, and Herod tetrarch of Galilee, and Philip his brother, tetrarch of Ituraea and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias tetrarch of Abilene --
(See RSV)

Abile'ne (1 Occurrence)
Abile'ne. Abilene, Abile'ne. Ability . Multi-Version Concordance
Abile'ne (1 Occurrence). Luke 3:1 And in the fifteenth year of ...
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Abilene (1 Occurrence)

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Ability (34 Occurrences)

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