Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Shamaria is not a direct term found in the Bible; however, it is often associated with the region of Samaria, which holds significant historical and theological importance in the biblical narrative. Samaria was the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel and plays a crucial role in both the Old and New Testaments. Historical Background: Samaria was established as the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel during the reign of King Omri around 880 BC (1 Kings 16:24). The city was strategically located on a hill, making it a formidable fortress. It became a center of idolatry and political intrigue, often leading the Israelites away from the worship of Yahweh. Biblical Significance: 1. Old Testament: · Idolatry and Judgment: Samaria is frequently mentioned in the context of idolatry and the subsequent judgment of God. The prophets, including Hosea and Amos, condemned the city for its sins. Hosea 8:5-6 states, "He has rejected your calf, O Samaria. My anger burns against them. How long will they be incapable of innocence? For this thing is from Israel—a craftsman made it, and it is not God. It will be broken in pieces, that calf of Samaria." · Assyrian Conquest: In 722 BC, Samaria fell to the Assyrians, leading to the exile of many Israelites. This event is recorded in 2 Kings 17:6 : "In the ninth year of Hoshea, the king of Assyria captured Samaria and deported the Israelites to Assyria. He settled them in Halah, in Gozan on the Habor River, and in the towns of the Medes." 2. New Testament: · Jesus and the Samaritans: In the New Testament, Samaria is significant for its interactions with Jesus Christ. The Samaritans were a mixed population, partly descended from the Israelites and partly from foreign settlers brought in by the Assyrians. This led to religious and ethnic tensions with the Jews. · The Good Samaritan: Jesus used the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37) to teach about love and compassion, challenging the prejudices of His time. The Samaritan's actions exemplified true neighborly love, transcending ethnic and religious boundaries. · The Samaritan Woman: In John 4, Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well is a pivotal moment, highlighting His mission to bring salvation to all people. John 4:9-10 records, "The Samaritan woman said to Him, 'How is it that You, a Jew, ask for a drink from me, a Samaritan woman?' (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.) Jesus answered, 'If you knew the gift of God and who is asking you for a drink, you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water.'" Theological Themes: · Judgment and Redemption: Samaria serves as a symbol of both judgment and redemption. Its history of idolatry and subsequent fall illustrates the consequences of turning away from God. Yet, the New Testament narratives involving Samaritans highlight God's inclusive plan of salvation. · Breaking Barriers: The interactions between Jesus and the Samaritans underscore the breaking of social and religious barriers. Jesus' ministry in Samaria demonstrates the universality of the Gospel and the call to love beyond cultural divides. Conclusion: While "Shamaria" as a term does not appear in the biblical text, the region of Samaria is integral to understanding the broader biblical narrative. Its historical and theological significance continues to offer lessons on faithfulness, judgment, and the expansive reach of God's grace. Concordance Shamaria (1 Occurrence)2 Chronicles 11:19 Thesaurus Shamaria (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Shamaria (1 Occurrence). 2 Chronicles 11:19 Which bare him children; Jeush, and Shamariah, and Zaham. (Root in KJV WBS YLT). ... /s/shamaria.htm - 6k Shamai Shamariah (1 Occurrence) Beareth (108 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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