Antiochis is a name that appears in historical and biblical contexts, primarily associated with the Seleucid dynasty, a Hellenistic state that emerged following the fragmentation of Alexander the Great's empire. While the name "Antiochis" itself does not appear directly in the canonical books of the Bible, it is relevant in understanding the historical and cultural backdrop of the intertestamental period and the New Testament era.

Historical Context

The Seleucid Empire, founded by Seleucus I Nicator, was one of the major Hellenistic kingdoms that arose after the death of Alexander the Great. The dynasty is named after Antiochus, a common name among its rulers. The Seleucid kings, many of whom bore the name Antiochus, played significant roles in the history of the Jewish people during the Second Temple period.

One of the most notable figures bearing this name is Antiochus IV Epiphanes, whose reign (175–164 BC) is marked by his aggressive Hellenization policies and persecution of the Jewish faith. His actions led to the Maccabean Revolt, a significant event in Jewish history that is recorded in the books of 1 and 2 Maccabees, part of the Apocrypha. Although these books are not included in the Protestant canon, they provide valuable historical insights into the period.

Biblical and Theological Significance

The influence of the Seleucid rulers, particularly Antiochus IV, is indirectly referenced in the prophetic literature of the Old Testament. The Book of Daniel contains visions and prophecies that many conservative scholars interpret as foretelling the rise and actions of Antiochus IV. Daniel 8:9-14, for instance, describes a "little horn" that grows exceedingly great and desecrates the sanctuary, which is often associated with Antiochus IV's desecration of the Second Temple.

Daniel 11:21-35 provides a more detailed account of a contemptible person who seizes the kingdom through intrigue, which aligns with historical accounts of Antiochus IV's rise to power and his subsequent persecution of the Jewish people. The Berean Standard Bible renders Daniel 11:31 as follows: "His forces will rise up and desecrate the temple fortress. They will abolish the daily sacrifice and set up the abomination of desolation."

Cultural and Religious Impact

The actions of Antiochus IV and the subsequent Maccabean Revolt had a profound impact on Jewish religious life and identity. The successful revolt led to the rededication of the Temple, an event commemorated by the Jewish festival of Hanukkah. This period of history also set the stage for the rise of the Hasmonean dynasty and the eventual Roman occupation, which forms the backdrop of the New Testament narrative.

In the New Testament, the cultural and political tensions between Hellenistic influences and Jewish traditions continue to play a significant role. The legacy of the Seleucid rulers, including those named Antiochis, is part of the complex historical milieu that shaped the world into which Jesus was born and the early Christian church emerged.

Conclusion

While the name Antiochis itself may not be directly mentioned in the Bible, the historical figures associated with this name, particularly within the Seleucid dynasty, are integral to understanding the historical and prophetic context of the biblical narrative. Their influence is seen in the fulfillment of biblical prophecy and the shaping of Jewish and early Christian history.ANTIOCHIS

an-ti'-o-kis (Antiochis): A concubine of Antiochus Epiphanes who had presented her with the two Cilician cities, Tarsus and Mallus. Dissatisfied with this the cities made insurrection (2 Maccabees 4:30).

Appendix iv. An Abstract of Jewish History from the Reign of ...
... after his father. If the Egyptian party ceased when Palestine passed under
Syrian rule in the reign of Antiochis III. the Great ...
/.../the life and times of jesus the messiah/appendix iv an abstract of.htm

Antiochis
...ANTIOCHIS. an-ti'-o-kis (Antiochis): A concubine of Antiochus Epiphanes who had
presented her with the two Cilician cities, Tarsus and Mallus. ...
/a/antiochis.htm - 6k

Antiochians

/a/antiochians.htm - 10k

Antiochus

/a/antiochus.htm - 17k

Mallus
... of which along with those of Tarsus, revolted from Antiochus Epiphanes in protest
against his action in giving them to his concubine, Antiochis (2 Maccabees 4 ...
/m/mallus.htm - 7k

Tarsus (5 Occurrences)
... we read that, about 171 "it came to pass that they of Tarsus and Mallus made
insurrection, because they were to be given as a present to Antiochis, the king's ...
/t/tarsus.htm - 30k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus