Topical Encyclopedia Mallus is a city of ancient significance mentioned in historical and biblical contexts, located in the region of Cilicia, which is in present-day southern Turkey. Although the city itself is not directly referenced in the canonical books of the Bible, it holds relevance in the broader historical and geographical understanding of the biblical world.Historical Context Mallus was an ancient city situated near the mouth of the Pyramus River (modern-day Ceyhan River) in Cilicia. It was known for its strategic location and its role in various historical events. The city is believed to have been founded by the seer Mopsus, a figure of Greek mythology, which indicates its ancient roots and cultural significance in the Hellenistic world. Biblical and Theological Significance While Mallus is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, its geographical and historical context provides insight into the world during the biblical era. Cilicia, the region where Mallus was located, is mentioned in the New Testament. The Apostle Paul, originally named Saul, was from Tarsus, another prominent city in Cilicia (Acts 21:39: "Paul answered, 'I am a Jew, from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no ordinary city. Please let me speak to the people.'"). This connection highlights the importance of Cilicia as a region that contributed to the spread of early Christianity. Cultural and Religious Influence Mallus, like many cities in Cilicia, was influenced by a blend of Greek and Eastern cultures. This cultural amalgamation is reflective of the broader Hellenistic influence that permeated the region following the conquests of Alexander the Great. The city's religious practices would have been a mix of local traditions and Hellenistic polytheism, which often posed challenges to the early Christian missionaries who sought to spread the Gospel in such regions. Archaeological Insights Archaeological findings in the region of Cilicia, including areas around Mallus, have provided valuable insights into the daily life, trade, and cultural exchanges that occurred in ancient times. These findings help to paint a picture of the environment in which early Christians, like Paul, operated. The presence of Roman roads and trade routes in Cilicia facilitated the movement of people and ideas, contributing to the spread of Christianity. Conclusion Mallus, though not directly mentioned in the Bible, serves as a testament to the rich historical and cultural tapestry of the ancient Near East. Its location in Cilicia places it within a significant context for understanding the backdrop of early Christian history and the spread of the Gospel in the Roman Empire. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia MALLUSmal'-us (Mallos; the King James Version, Mallos): A city in Cilicia, the inhabitants 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 4:30). The ancient name was Marlos. The river Pyramos divides about 10 miles from the sea, one branch flowing to the West, the other to the East of the low range of hills along the coast on which stands Kara-Tash. Mallus stood on a height (Strabo, 675) to the East of the western arm, a short distance from the shore. The site is a little West of Kara-Tash, where inscriptions of Antiocheia and Mallus have been found. Tarsus lay about 35 miles to the Northwest. The two cities were rivals in trade. The position of Mallus with her harbor on the shore gave her really no advantage over Tarsus, with her river navigable to the city walls. The fine wagon road over the mountain by way of the Cilician Gates opened for her easy access to the interior, compared with that furnished for Mallus by the old caravan track to the North by way of Adana. This sufficiently explains the greater prosperity of the former city. Library Diversity of Dreams and visions Epicurus Thought Lightly of Them ... Thesaurus Mallus... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia MALLUS. ...Mallus stood on a height (Strabo, 675) to the East of the western arm, a short distance from the shore. ... /m/mallus.htm - 7k Menelaus Malobathron Mal'luchi (1 Occurrence) Antiochis Tarsus (5 Occurrences) Mallos Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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