Topical Encyclopedia Sidon, one of the most ancient cities mentioned in the Bible, is located on the Mediterranean coast in what is now modern-day Lebanon. It is often paired with its sister city, Tyre, and together they were significant centers of Phoenician culture and trade. Sidon is first mentioned in the Book of Genesis as the firstborn son of Canaan, the grandson of Noah, indicating its early establishment and prominence: "Canaan was the father of Sidon his firstborn, and of the Hittites" (Genesis 10:15).Historical and Geographical Context Sidon was strategically positioned on the northern boundary of the Canaanites, serving as a major port and hub for maritime trade. Its location facilitated interactions with various cultures and civilizations, contributing to its wealth and influence. The city's prosperity is reflected in its craftsmanship, particularly in the production of purple dye and glass, which were highly prized in the ancient world. Biblical References and Significance Throughout the Old Testament, Sidon is frequently mentioned in the context of Israel's interactions with surrounding nations. The city is noted for its idolatry and pagan practices, which often posed a spiritual threat to the Israelites. In Judges 10:6, the Israelites are said to have turned to the gods of Sidon, among others, forsaking the LORD: "Again the Israelites did evil in the sight of the LORD. They served the Baals and the Ashtoreths, the gods of Aram, the gods of Sidon, the gods of Moab, the gods of the Ammonites, and the gods of the Philistines. Thus they forsook the LORD and did not serve Him" (Judges 10:6). Sidon's influence extended into the reign of King Solomon, who formed alliances with Hiram, the king of Tyre, and by extension, Sidon. This relationship facilitated the procurement of materials and skilled labor for the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem (1 Kings 5:1-6). Prophetic Pronouncements The prophets frequently pronounced judgments against Sidon, highlighting its pride and idolatry. Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel all include oracles against the city. Ezekiel, in particular, prophesies against Sidon, declaring God's judgment and the eventual recognition of His sovereignty: "This is what the Lord GOD says: 'Behold, I am against you, O Sidon, and I will gain glory within you. They will know that I am the LORD when I execute judgments against her and demonstrate My holiness through her'" (Ezekiel 28:22). New Testament Mentions In the New Testament, Sidon is mentioned in the context of Jesus' ministry. Jesus visited the region of Tyre and Sidon, performing miracles and teaching, as recorded in the Gospels. In Matthew 15:21-28, a Canaanite woman from the vicinity of Sidon approaches Jesus, seeking healing for her demon-possessed daughter. Her faith is commended by Jesus, and her daughter is healed, demonstrating the reach of Jesus' ministry beyond the borders of Israel. Additionally, Sidon is mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles during Paul's journey to Rome. In Acts 27:3, Paul is allowed to visit friends in Sidon, indicating the presence of a Christian community or supportive individuals in the city. Cultural and Religious Influence Sidon's cultural and religious influence was significant in the ancient Near East. The city's pantheon and religious practices often infiltrated Israelite society, leading to periods of syncretism and apostasy. The worship of Baal and Ashtoreth, deities associated with Sidon, is frequently condemned in the biblical narrative. Sidon's legacy is one of both cultural achievement and spiritual challenge. Its historical and biblical significance continues to be a subject of study and reflection, offering insights into the complex interactions between the Israelites and their neighbors. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 10:19And the border of the Canaanites was from Sidon, as you come to Gerar, to Gaza; as you go, to Sodom, and Gomorrah, and Admah, and Zeboim, even to Lasha. Nave's Topical Index Library Babylonia and Assyria Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus The Last Days of the Old Eastern World Resources Are there different levels of punishment in hell? | GotQuestions.orgWhy is so much of the world still unevangelized? | GotQuestions.org What are the cedars of Lebanon the Bible mentions? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Sidon: A City on the Northern Boundary of the Canaanites Sidon: A City on the Northern Boundary of the Canaanites: Ahab Marries a Woman of Sidon: A City on the Northern Boundary of the Canaanites: Commerce of Sidon: A City on the Northern Boundary of the Canaanites: Inhabitants of, offend Herod Agrippa I Sidon: A City on the Northern Boundary of the Canaanites: Israelites Failed to Make Conquest of Sidon: A City on the Northern Boundary of the Canaanites: People of, Come to Hear Jesus Sidon: A City on the Northern Boundary of the Canaanites: Prophecies Concerning Sidon: A City on the Northern Boundary of the Canaanites: Solomon Marries Women of Sidon: A City on the Northern Boundary of the Canaanites: The Sailors of Sidon: A City on the Northern Boundary of the Canaanites: Visited by Paul Sidon: Also Called Zidon: Son of Canaan Sidon: Designated by Jacob As the Border of the Tribe of Zebulun Sidon: Jesus Visits the Region of, and Heals the Daughter of the Non-Jewish, Syro-Phoenician Woman Sidon: The Inhabitants of, Contributed Cedar for the First and Second Temple Related Terms Misrephoth-maim (2 Occurrences) |
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