Topical Encyclopedia Caria was an ancient region located in the southwestern part of Asia Minor, which is modern-day Turkey. It was bordered by Lydia to the north, Phrygia to the northeast, Lycia to the southeast, and the Aegean Sea to the west. The region was known for its rugged terrain and coastal cities, which played a significant role in the maritime trade of the ancient world.Historical Context Caria's history is marked by a blend of indigenous cultures and external influences, including Greek, Persian, and Roman. The Carian people were known for their distinct language and customs, although they were heavily influenced by Greek culture over time. The region became a part of the Persian Empire in the 6th century BC and later fell under the control of Alexander the Great. Following Alexander's death, Caria was ruled by the Seleucid Empire and eventually became a Roman province. Biblical References While Caria is not directly mentioned by name in the Bible, it is part of the broader geographical and cultural context of the New Testament. The region's proximity to significant biblical locations such as Ephesus and the other cities of Asia Minor suggests its indirect influence on early Christian history. The Apostle Paul traveled extensively through Asia Minor during his missionary journeys, as recorded in the Acts of the Apostles. Although there is no specific mention of Caria, the region's cities and ports would have been part of the network of trade and communication that facilitated the spread of the Gospel. For example, Acts 19:10 states, "This continued for two years, so that all the residents of Asia, both Jews and Greeks, heard the word of the Lord." Cultural and Religious Influence Caria was known for its syncretic religious practices, blending native traditions with Greek and later Roman influences. The region was home to several important sanctuaries and temples, including the famous Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. This cultural backdrop provides insight into the diverse religious environment encountered by early Christians. The spread of Christianity in Asia Minor, including regions like Caria, was marked by the challenge of addressing pagan practices and beliefs. The Apostle Paul's letters to the churches in nearby regions, such as Ephesus and Colossae, often addressed issues of idolatry and the need for believers to remain steadfast in their faith amidst a pluralistic society. Archaeological Significance Archaeological discoveries in Caria have provided valuable insights into the region's history and its role in the ancient world. Excavations have uncovered remnants of cities, temples, and inscriptions that shed light on the cultural and religious life of the Carians. These findings contribute to our understanding of the historical context in which the early Christian church developed. Conclusion Caria, though not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, played a role in the broader historical and cultural landscape of the New Testament era. Its strategic location and cultural diversity made it a significant region in the ancient world, influencing the spread of Christianity in Asia Minor. Smith's Bible Dictionary Cariathe southern part of the region which int he New Testament is called ASIA, and the southwestern part of the peninsula of Asia Minor. (Acts 20:15; 27:7) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia CARIAka'-ri-a (Karia): A country in the Southwest of Asia Minor which extended on the North to Lydia, on the East to Phrygia, on the South to Lycia, and the West to the Aegean Sea. Its borders, however, like those of most of the ancient countries of Asia Minor, were never definitely fixed; hence, the difficulty presented by the study of the political divisions. The general surface of the country is rugged, consisting of mountainous ridges running across it, and terminating as promontories jutting into the sea. Its history consists chiefly of that of its practically independent cities of which Miletus (Acts 20:15-20) and Cnidus (Acts 27:7) are the chief. For some time previous to 168 B.C. it had lost its independence, and belonged to the island of Rhodes, but in that year Rome made it again free. According to 1 Maccabees 15:23, Caria was one of several places to which the Roman senate in 139-138 B.C. sent letters in favor of the Jews, a fact showing that its population was mixed. Its coast cities, however, were peopled chiefly by Greeks. In 129 B.C. Caria became a part of the Roman province of Asia, and from that date its history coincides with that of the province. Though Paul and others of the apostles traversed Caria in their missionary journeys, only its cities are mentioned by name in that connection. Greek 2834. Knidos -- Cnidus, a city on the SW coast of Asia Minor ... Noun, Feminine Transliteration: Knidos Phonetic Spelling: (knee'-dos) Short Definition: Cnidus Definition: Cnidus, a town on the coast of Caria (south-west ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2834.htm - 6k Library Herodotus and Xenophon. The Review of the Troops at Doriscus. The Greek of the Septuagint. Of the Union of Man's Will with God's in those Inspirations which ... Nestorius of Antioch Promoted to the See of Constantinople. His ... In Consequence of the Translation, Many of the Christians are Ill ... Since These Ills Existed in the Church, Secular Affairs Also Fell ... Gratian Elects Theodosius of Spain to Reign with Him, Arianism ... Councils of Sicily and of Tyana. The Synod which was Expected to ... Concerning Sanballat and Manasseh, and the Temple which they Built ... Thesaurus Caria...CARIA. ... In 129 BC Caria became a part of the Roman province of Asia, and from that date its history coincides with that of the province. ... /c/caria.htm - 7k Rhodes (2 Occurrences) Lydia (5 Occurrences) Cnidus (1 Occurrence) Asia (22 Occurrences) Halicarnassus Myndus Miletus (3 Occurrences) Pergamos (1 Occurrence) Pergamum (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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