Topical Encyclopedia Antiochus II Theos (286–246 BC) was a Hellenistic king of the Seleucid Empire, reigning from 261 to 246 BC. He was the son of Antiochus I Soter and succeeded his father as the ruler of the empire. His reign is noted for its political and military challenges, as well as its impact on the regions that would later be significant in biblical history.Historical Context Antiochus II's reign was marked by ongoing conflicts with the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, a rival Hellenistic state. This period is part of the larger series of conflicts known as the Syrian Wars, which were fought between the Seleucid and Ptolemaic empires over control of territories in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Near East. These conflicts had significant implications for the regions of Judea and Samaria, which were often caught between the two powers. Marriage and Political Alliances One of the most notable events during Antiochus II's reign was his marriage to Berenice, the daughter of Ptolemy II Philadelphus of Egypt. This marriage was part of a peace treaty between the Seleucid and Ptolemaic empires. However, the alliance was short-lived. After the death of Ptolemy II, Antiochus II repudiated Berenice and returned to his former wife, Laodice. This decision led to further political instability and conflict, as Laodice sought to secure the throne for her own children. Biblical Significance While Antiochus II is not directly mentioned in the Bible, his actions and the geopolitical landscape of his time are indirectly referenced in the prophetic literature. The Book of Daniel, particularly in Daniel 11, provides a detailed prophecy concerning the "kings of the North and South," which many conservative scholars interpret as referring to the Seleucid and Ptolemaic dynasties. Daniel 11:6 states, "After some years they will form an alliance, and the daughter of the king of the South will go to the king of the North to make an agreement. But she will not retain her power, and his strength will not endure. In those days she will be betrayed, along with her escort and her father and the one who supported her." This passage is often understood to refer to the marriage alliance between Antiochus II and Berenice, highlighting the temporary nature of their political union and the subsequent betrayal and turmoil that followed. Legacy Antiochus II's reign ended with his death in 246 BC, under circumstances that remain somewhat unclear, though some historical accounts suggest poisoning. His death led to a succession crisis and further conflict, as his sons, Seleucus II and Antiochus Hierax, vied for control of the empire. The instability that followed his reign set the stage for future conflicts that would continue to affect the Jewish people and the broader region. Antiochus II's legacy is thus intertwined with the complex history of the Hellenistic period, a time of significant cultural and political change that laid the groundwork for the events leading up to the New Testament era. His reign is a reminder of the intricate interplay between political power and prophetic fulfillment as seen through the lens of biblical history. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Antiochus IiANTIOCHUS II Surnamed Theos (Theos, "god"): Son and successor of Antiochus (261-246 B.C.). He made a successful war on Ptolemy Philadelphus of Egypt, but was obliged to buy peace in 250 by divorcing his wife, Laodice, and by marrying Ptolemy's daughter, Berenice. After the death of Ptolemy, "the king of the south" (Daniel 11:6) 248 B.C., he recalled Laodice and named her eldest son (Seleucus Kallinikos) as his successor to the throne; but Laodice (probably because she feared a second repudiation) had Berenice, her child, and Antiochus all murdered (246 B.C.). The Milesians gave him the surname of Theos in gratitude for his liberating them from the tyranny of Timarchus. (See Arrian, I, 17, 10, and 18, 2; Josephus, Ant, XII, iii, 2; Dittenberger, Sylloge Inscr. Graec, 166-71.) Library Letter Lxii. --To John and Antiochus. On Daniel. Ii. The Interpretation by Hippolytus, (Bishop) of Rome ... Book ii. The Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Ephesians For, First of All, under King Seleucus, the Son of Antiochus the ... They Say that Antiochus of Cyzicum Took from Its Shrine a Statue ... Book ii. But that the Order of the Dates May be Correctly Preserved... Dialogue ii. --The Unconfounded. And ii. Resources Who was Antiochus Epiphanes? | GotQuestions.orgWho is the king of the North in Daniel 11? | GotQuestions.org Who is the king of the South in Daniel 11? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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