Chora'zin
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Chora'zin, also spelled Chorazin, is a town mentioned in the New Testament of the Bible, specifically in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. It is one of the cities in which Jesus performed many of His mighty works, yet it is also one of the cities that faced His stern rebuke for its lack of repentance.

Biblical References:

1. Matthew 11:21 : "Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes."

2. Luke 10:13 : "Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes."

In these passages, Jesus pronounces a "woe" upon Chora'zin, along with Bethsaida, for their unrepentant hearts despite witnessing His miracles. The comparison to Tyre and Sidon, ancient cities known for their wickedness, underscores the gravity of Chora'zin's spiritual indifference.

Historical and Geographical Context:

Chora'zin was located in the region of Galilee, near the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. It was part of the "evangelical triangle," which included Capernaum and Bethsaida, areas where Jesus spent a significant portion of His ministry. The exact location of ancient Chora'zin is identified with the modern site of Khirbet Kerazeh, approximately 2.5 miles north of Capernaum.

Archaeological excavations at the site have uncovered remains of a synagogue, residential buildings, and other structures, providing insight into the daily life and culture of the time. The synagogue, in particular, is notable for its intricate carvings and basalt construction, reflecting the architectural style of the period.

Theological Significance:

The mention of Chora'zin in the Gospels serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of responding to God's revelation with repentance and faith. Despite witnessing the miraculous works of Jesus, the inhabitants of Chora'zin failed to turn from their ways and acknowledge Him as the Messiah. This lack of response highlights the theme of spiritual accountability and the consequences of rejecting divine truth.

The rebuke of Chora'zin, along with Bethsaida and Capernaum, illustrates the broader biblical principle that greater revelation brings greater responsibility. Jesus' lament over these cities serves as a warning to all who hear the Gospel, emphasizing the necessity of a heartfelt response to God's call.

Cultural and Religious Context:

In the first century, Galilee was a region with a diverse population, including Jews and Gentiles. The Jewish communities in towns like Chora'zin would have been familiar with the Hebrew Scriptures and the Messianic prophecies. Jesus' ministry in Galilee, marked by teaching, healing, and miracles, was a direct fulfillment of these prophecies, yet the response from many was one of indifference or outright rejection.

The cultural and religious context of Chora'zin underscores the challenges Jesus faced in His ministry. Despite the clear evidence of His divine authority, many were unwilling to accept His message, preferring to cling to their established beliefs and practices.

Conclusion:

The account of Chora'zin is a sobering reminder of the consequences of spiritual apathy and the importance of responding to God's revelation with repentance and faith. As a town that witnessed the mighty works of Jesus yet failed to repent, Chora'zin stands as a testament to the enduring call of the Gospel and the necessity of a genuine response to the Savior.
Concordance
Chora'zin (1 Occurrence)

Luke 10:13
Wo to thee, Chorazin; wo to thee, Bethsaida; for if in Tyre and Sidon had been done the mighty works that were done in you, long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes, they had reformed;
(See RSV)

Thesaurus
Chora'zin (1 Occurrence)
Chora'zin. Chorazin, Chora'zin. Chorbe . Multi-Version Concordance
Chora'zin (1 Occurrence). Luke 10:13 Wo to thee, Chorazin; wo ...
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Chorazin (2 Occurrences)

/c/chorazin.htm - 8k

Chorbe

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