Topical Encyclopedia Geographical and Historical Context: Samaria, a significant region in biblical history, is located in the central part of ancient Israel. It is bordered by Galilee to the north and Judea to the south. The city of Samaria, which later lent its name to the entire region, was founded by King Omri around 880 BC and became the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel (1 Kings 16:24). The strategic location of Samaria made it a central hub for trade and military activities. Biblical Significance: Samaria holds a prominent place in the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of the divided monarchy. After the death of King Solomon, the united kingdom of Israel split into two: the Northern Kingdom (Israel) and the Southern Kingdom (Judah). Samaria became the political and religious center of the Northern Kingdom. The city is frequently mentioned in the accounts of the kings of Israel, many of whom led the people into idolatry and away from the worship of Yahweh. The prophets often condemned Samaria for its idolatry and social injustices. For instance, the prophet Amos warned of impending judgment due to the people's sins (Amos 3:9-12). Similarly, Hosea lamented the spiritual adultery of Samaria, equating it with unfaithfulness to God (Hosea 7:1). Assyrian Conquest: In 722 BC, the Assyrian Empire, under King Shalmaneser V and later Sargon II, conquered Samaria after a prolonged siege. This event marked the end of the Northern Kingdom and led to the exile of many Israelites. The Assyrians repopulated the area with people from other conquered territories, leading to a mixed population that would later be known as the Samaritans (2 Kings 17:5-6, 24). New Testament Context: By the time of the New Testament, Samaria was a region with a distinct identity, often viewed with suspicion and hostility by the Jews of Judea. This animosity is evident in the Gospels, where interactions between Jews and Samaritans are marked by tension. Despite this, Jesus Christ's ministry included significant engagements with Samaritans, demonstrating His message of salvation for all people. One of the most notable encounters is with the Samaritan woman at the well, where Jesus reveals Himself as the Messiah and offers her "living water" (John 4:4-26). This interaction underscores the breaking down of ethnic and religious barriers through the Gospel. Additionally, the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) challenges prevailing prejudices by portraying a Samaritan as the exemplar of neighborly love and compassion. Theological Implications: Samaria's role in biblical history serves as a backdrop for themes of judgment, redemption, and the universality of God's love. The region's complex history with Israel and its subsequent interactions in the New Testament highlight the transformative power of the Gospel, which transcends cultural and ethnic divisions. The inclusion of Samaritans in the early Christian community, as seen in the Acts of the Apostles, further emphasizes the breaking down of barriers through faith in Christ (Acts 8:4-25). Key Bible References: · Founding of Samaria: 1 Kings 16:24 · Prophetic warnings: Amos 3:9-12; Hosea 7:1 · Assyrian conquest: 2 Kings 17:5-6, 24 · Jesus and the Samaritan woman: John 4:4-26 · Parable of the Good Samaritan: Luke 10:25-37 · Samaritans in the early church: Acts 8:4-25 Concordance Samar'ia (4 Occurrences)John 4:4 John 4:5 John 4:7 John 4:9 Thesaurus Samar'ia (4 Occurrences)Samar'ia. Sama'ria, Samar'ia. Sama'ria's . Multi-Version Concordance Samar'ia (4 Occurrences). John 4:4 and it was behoving him to go through Samaria. ... /s/samar'ia.htm - 7k Sama'ria's (1 Occurrence) Sama'ria (102 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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