The term "Decapolis" refers to a group of ten cities on the eastern frontier of the Roman Empire in the region of Judea and Syria. The name itself is derived from the Greek words "deka," meaning ten, and "polis," meaning city. These cities were centers of Greek and Roman culture in a predominantly Semitic region, and they played a significant role in the cultural and economic landscape during the time of the New Testament.

Biblical References:

The Decapolis is mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in the Gospels. One of the most notable references is found in the Gospel of Mark, where Jesus performs a miracle in this region. Mark 5:20 states, "So the man went away and began to proclaim throughout the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him. And everyone was amazed." This passage follows the account of Jesus healing a demon-possessed man, who then becomes a witness to the power and compassion of Christ throughout the Decapolis.

Another reference is found in Mark 7:31 : "Then Jesus left the region of Tyre and went through Sidon to the Sea of Galilee and into the region of the Decapolis." This indicates that Jesus traveled through this area during His ministry, engaging with both Jewish and Gentile populations.

Historical and Cultural Context:

The Decapolis cities were established after the conquests of Alexander the Great and were later incorporated into the Roman Empire. These cities included Scythopolis (modern-day Beit She'an), Hippos, Gadara, Pella, Philadelphia (modern-day Amman), Gerasa (modern-day Jerash), Dion, Canatha, Raphana, and Damascus. Each city had a degree of autonomy and was known for its Hellenistic culture, which included Greek architecture, language, and customs.

The presence of these cities in the region highlights the cultural diversity during the time of Jesus. The Decapolis served as a bridge between the Jewish and Greco-Roman worlds, providing a backdrop for the spread of the Gospel beyond the Jewish population. The cities were known for their theaters, temples, and forums, which were central to civic life and indicative of their Hellenistic influence.

Significance in the Ministry of Jesus:

The Decapolis region is significant in the ministry of Jesus as it represents His outreach to Gentile populations. The healing of the demon-possessed man and the subsequent proclamation of Jesus' works throughout the Decapolis illustrate the inclusive nature of His ministry. Jesus' interactions in this region demonstrate His authority over spiritual forces and His compassion for all people, regardless of their cultural or ethnic background.

The Decapolis also serves as a testament to the early spread of Christianity. The man's testimony in Mark 5:20 suggests that the seeds of the Gospel were planted in a predominantly Gentile area, foreshadowing the later missionary efforts of the apostles and the expansion of the early Church.

In summary, the Decapolis is a significant geographical and cultural region mentioned in the New Testament, highlighting the intersection of Jewish and Gentile worlds and the far-reaching impact of Jesus' ministry.Decap'olis (3 Occurrences)

Matthew 4:25
And there followed him many multitudes from Galilee, and Decapolis, and Jerusalem, and Judea, and beyond the Jordan.
(See RSV)

Mark 5:20
and he went away, and began to proclaim in the Decapolis how great things Jesus did to him, and all were wondering.
(See RSV)

Mark 7:31
And again, having gone forth from the coasts of Tyre and Sidon, he came unto the sea of Galilee, through the midst of the coasts of Decapolis,
(See RSV)

Decap'olis (3 Occurrences)
Decap'olis. Decapolis, Decap'olis. Decay . Multi-Version Concordance
Decap'olis (3 Occurrences). Matthew 4:25 And there followed ...
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Decapolis (3 Occurrences)

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Decay (18 Occurrences)

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