Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Tiberias is a significant location in the New Testament, primarily known as a city on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee. It holds historical and religious importance, being closely associated with the ministry of Jesus Christ and the early Christian community. Historical Background: Tiberias was founded by Herod Antipas, the son of Herod the Great, around AD 20. Named in honor of the Roman Emperor Tiberius, the city was built on the site of a former cemetery, which initially made it ritually unclean for Jews. Despite this, it eventually became a prominent city in Galilee and served as the capital of Herod Antipas's tetrarchy. Biblical References: While Tiberias is not frequently mentioned in the New Testament, it is referenced in the context of Jesus' ministry around the Sea of Galilee. The Sea of Galilee is also referred to as the Sea of Tiberias in the Gospel of John. In John 6:1, the Berean Standard Bible states, "After this, Jesus crossed to the other side of the Sea of Galilee (that is, the Sea of Tiberias)." This passage highlights the geographical significance of Tiberias in relation to Jesus' movements and miracles. Another mention is found in John 6:23, which notes, "However, some boats from Tiberias arrived near the place they had eaten the bread after the Lord had given thanks." This verse underscores the proximity of Tiberias to the site of the miraculous feeding of the five thousand, one of Jesus' most well-known miracles. Cultural and Religious Significance: Tiberias became an important center for Jewish learning and culture after the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70. It was one of the last cities to fall during the Jewish revolt against Rome and later became a hub for rabbinic scholarship. The Jerusalem Talmud was completed in Tiberias, and the city played a crucial role in the preservation and development of Jewish tradition. Archaeological Insights: Modern archaeological excavations in Tiberias have uncovered significant remains from the Roman and Byzantine periods, including a Roman theater, bathhouses, and city walls. These findings provide insight into the city's historical context during the time of Jesus and the early church. Theological Implications: Tiberias serves as a backdrop for understanding the geographical and cultural setting of Jesus' ministry. Its mention in the Gospel of John connects the physical landscape with the spiritual narrative of Jesus' life and works. The city's evolution from a Roman-founded city to a center of Jewish learning reflects the dynamic interplay between different cultures and religions in the region. Conclusion: While Tiberias is not a focal point in the New Testament, its presence in the biblical narrative and its historical development offer valuable insights into the world in which Jesus lived and the early Christian community emerged. Concordance Tiber'i-as (2 Occurrences)John 6:1 John 6:23 Thesaurus Tiber'i-as (2 Occurrences)Tiber'i-as. Tibe'ri-as, Tiber'i-as. Tiberius . Multi-Version Concordance Tiber'i-as (2 Occurrences). John 6:1 After these things ... /t/tiber'i-as.htm - 6k Tiberius (1 Occurrence) Tibe'ri-as (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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