Abilene
Aceldama‘the Field of Blood.'-
There was a spot near to Jerusalem called 'the field of the potter.' This was bought by the chief priests with the purchase money of the Lord as a burial ground for strangers, cf. Matt. 27:88Wherefore that field was called, The field of blood, unto this day. (Matthew 27:8); Acts 1:1919And it was known unto all the dwellers at Jerusalem; insomuch as that field is called in their proper tongue, Aceldama, that is to say, The field of blood. (Acts 1:19); Zech. 11:12, 1312And I said unto them, If ye think good, give me my price; and if not, forbear. So they weighed for my price thirty pieces of silver. 13And the Lord said unto me, Cast it unto the potter: a goodly price that I was prised at of them. And I took the thirty pieces of silver, and cast them to the potter in the house of the Lord. (Zechariah 11:12‑13). There is a charnel house on the south of Jerusalem, now in ruins, that is pointed out as the site of the field.
Achaia
Acts 19:2121After these things were ended, Paul purposed in the spirit, when he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem, saying, After I have been there, I must also see Rome. (Acts 19:21); Rom. 15:2626For it hath pleased them of Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor saints which are at Jerusalem. (Romans 15:26); 1 Cor. 16:15,15I beseech you, brethren, (ye know the house of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints,) (1 Corinthians 16:15) &c.-This, with Macedonia, included the whole of Greece in N. T. language. At the time when Paul wrote, it was assigned to the Roman Senate, and its ruler was correctly called a 'pro-consul' or 'deputy,' Acts 18:1212And when Gallio was the deputy of Achaia, the Jews made insurrection with one accord against Paul, and brought him to the judgment seat, (Acts 18:12).
Adramyttium
Adria
ֶNon
John 3:2323And John also was baptizing in Aenon near to Salim, because there was much water there: and they came, and were baptized. (John 3:23).-It signifies ‘the springs,' and was near Salim. It was on the west side of the Jordan, cf. John 3:26,26And they came unto John, and said unto him, Rabbi, he that was with thee beyond Jordan, to whom thou barest witness, behold, the same baptizeth, and all men come to him. (John 3:26) but has not been identified. John baptized there because there was 'much water.' Jesus also (or rather his disciples) baptized in Judea, John 3:2222After these things came Jesus and his disciples into the land of Judea; and there he tarried with them, and baptized. (John 3:22).
Alexandria
Acts 18:24; 27:6; 28:1124And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus. (Acts 18:24)
6And there the centurion found a ship of Alexandria sailing into Italy; and he put us therein. (Acts 27:6)
11And after three months we departed in a ship of Alexandria, which had wintered in the isle, whose sign was Castor and Pollux. (Acts 28:11) was founded by Alexander the Great, head of the third great kingdom of Daniel, in B.C. 332, and was intended by him as the capital of Egypt. It was completed by the Ptolemies. It lies near the S.W. corner of the Mediterranean, and is still one of the principal cities of Egypt.
Amphipolis
Acts 17:11Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where was a synagogue of the Jews: (Acts 17:1).-A city of Macedonia, situate on the river Strymon, about three miles from the sea. Paul and Silas passed through it on their way from Philippi to Thessalonica. It has long been in ruins, but on its site is erected a village called Jeni-keni.
Antioch in Syria.
This was founded about 300 B.C. by Seleucus Nicatorand was adorned and enriched by early emperors. It became the capital in Syria of the Greek kings, and was afterward the residence of the Roman governors. It was beautifully situated on the junction of the heights of Lebanon and of Taurus, where the river Orontes issues from the mountain about 36. 5' N. Lat. It was here that believers in the Lord Jesus were first called Christians, and from here that Paul started on his missionary journeys, and to this place he returned, Acts. 11, 13, 14, 15, 18. Though in Syria, it was so far removed from Jerusalem that it proved a suitable place to form a center for action free from Judaism, though fellowship with the church at Jerusalem was maintained. A small town occupies its site named Antakia.
Antioch in Pisidia.
A Roman colony in Pisidiain Asia Minor: Paul visited it with Barnabas, Acts 13:14,14But when they departed from Perga, they came to Antioch in Pisidia, and went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and sat down. (Acts 13:14) but was expelled by the Jews, 2 Tim. 3:1111Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me. (2 Timothy 3:11). This was also founded by Seleucus Nicator. The Romans made it the seat of a pro-consular government. Its site is supposed to correspond with Yalobatch.
Antipatris
Acts 23:3131Then the soldiers, as it was commanded them, took Paul, and brought him by night to Antipatris. (Acts 23:31).-A city built by Herod the Great, on the road from Jerusalem to Caesarea. To this place Paul was brought by night. Some identify it with a small village called Kefr-Saba, but others prefer Ras el-Ain, which better agrees with the description given by Josephus.
Apollonia
Acts 17.1.-A city of Macedonia. Paul and Silas passed through it on their way from Philippi and Amphipolis to Thessalonica.
Appii Forum
Arabia
Areopagus or Mars' Hill
acts 17. 19, 22.-the Greek Is the Same in Both Verses, ὁ” Αοειος Πάγος, the Words Being Translated in Ver. 22. This Was a High Court for Judicial and National Purposes. It Does Not Appear That Paul Was Before the Council Judicially, for to Proclaim a New God Was Punishable With Death; He Was Heard Out of Curiosity by the Philosophers. Sixteen Stone Steps Cut in the Rock Still Lead to the Spot. See Athens.
Arimathea
Asia-
n the N. T. the word 'Asia' must be understood to refer to the Roman province of Asia Minorthough not always of the same extent: in Acts 2:9, 10,9Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia, 10Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, (Acts 2:9‑10) Phrygia is distinct from Asia; whereas in 1 Pet. 1:11Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, (1 Peter 1:1) and Rev. 1:4, 11,4John to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace be unto you, and peace, from him which is, and which was, and which is to come; and from the seven Spirits which are before his throne; (Revelation 1:4)
11Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea. (Revelation 1:11) and perhaps other places, Asia would embrace a wider district. Its extent was not definitely settled. In Acts 16: 6 'Asia' refers merely to Mysia, Lydia, and Caria on the east.
Assos
Athens
Acts 17:15, 16, 22; 18:115And they that conducted Paul brought him unto Athens: and receiving a commandment unto Silas and Timotheus for to come to him with all speed, they departed. 16Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was stirred in him, when he saw the city wholly given to idolatry. (Acts 17:15‑16)
22Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars' hill, and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious. (Acts 17:22)
1After these things Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth; (Acts 18:1); 1 Thess. 3:11Wherefore when we could no longer forbear, we thought it good to be left at Athens alone; (1 Thessalonians 3:1).-The celebrated capital of Attica, the chief seat of civilization, learning and art in the golden age of Grecian history. The city was adorned with temples and altars to every imaginable deity. It was here that Paul was led to Mars' Hill, where he delivered his address so suitable to a heathen audience of learned men.
Attalia
Acts 14:2525And when they had preached the word in Perga, they went down into Attalia: (Acts 14:25).-A seaport of Pamphylia, in Asia Minor, whence Paul sailed on his return to Antioch. It is now called Adalia, and is described as standing on a high cliff above the sea, with no beach.
Azotus
Acts 8:4040But Philip was found at Azotus: and passing through he preached in all the cities, till he came to Caesarea. (Acts 8:40).-Where Philip was found after accompanying the Eunuch. It is about mid-way between Gaza and Joppa, about three miles from the sea. It is called Ashdod in the O. T., and now Esdud. It was destroyed by the Maccabees, but was restored by the Romans, and assigned to Salome.
Babylon.-
The name refers, to the ancient Babylon, whence the Israelites were carried captive, Matt. 1:11, 12, 1711And Josias begat Jechonias and his brethren, about the time they were carried away to Babylon: 12And after they were brought to Babylon, Jechonias begat Salathiel; and Salathiel begat Zorobabel; (Matthew 1:11‑12)
17So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations; and from David until the carrying away into Babylon are fourteen generations; and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ are fourteen generations. (Matthew 1:17); Acts 7:4343Yea, ye took up the tabernacle of Moloch, and the star of your god Remphan, figures which ye made to worship them: and I will carry you away beyond Babylon. (Acts 7:43); b, a city referred to in 1 Peter 5:13,13The church that is at Babylon, elected together with you, saluteth you; and so doth Marcus my son. (1 Peter 5:13) where there was an assembly. Though the ancient Babylon had been destroyed, Josephus and Philo speak of it as being inhabited in their time, so that it is possible that this is the place alluded to; c, mystical Babylon. Rev. 14:8; 16:19; 17: 5; 18:2:8And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication. (Revelation 14:8)
19And the great city was divided into three parts, and the cities of the nations fell: and great Babylon came in remembrance before God, to give unto her the cup of the wine of the fierceness of his wrath. (Revelation 16:19) papal Rome; see its description in Rev. 17.; 18.
Berea
Acts 17:10-15; 20:410And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto Berea: who coming thither went into the synagogue of the Jews. 11These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so. 12Therefore many of them believed; also of honorable women which were Greeks, and of men, not a few. 13But when the Jews of Thessalonica had knowledge that the word of God was preached of Paul at Berea, they came thither also, and stirred up the people. 14And then immediately the brethren sent away Paul to go as it were to the sea: but Silas and Timotheus abode there still. 15And they that conducted Paul brought him unto Athens: and receiving a commandment unto Silas and Timotheus for to come to him with all speed, they departed. (Acts 17:10‑15)
4And there accompanied him into Asia Sopater of Berea; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timotheus; and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus. (Acts 20:4).-A city of Macedonia near Thessalonica, where the Jews were more noble, in that they searched the scriptures to judge of Paul's preaching. Its modern name is Verria.
Bethabara
John 1:2828These things were done in Bethabara beyond Jordan, where John was baptizing. (John 1:28).-It was somewhere 'beyond' or to the east of Jordan, but where is not known. The oldest MSS. read 'Bethany.' Some suppose the two names refer to the same place.
Bethany
Matt. 21:17; 26:617And he left them, and went out of the city into Bethany; and he lodged there. (Matthew 21:17)
6Now when Jesus was in Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper, (Matthew 26:6); Mark 11:1, 12; 14:31And when they came nigh to Jerusalem, unto Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount of Olives, he sendeth forth two of his disciples, (Mark 11:1)
12And on the morrow, when they were come from Bethany, he was hungry: (Mark 11:12)
3And being in Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as he sat at meat, there came a woman having an alabaster box of ointment of spikenard very precious; and she brake the box, and poured it on his head. (Mark 14:3); Luke 19:29; 24:5029And it came to pass, when he was come nigh to Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount called the mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples, (Luke 19:29)
50And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them. (Luke 24:50); John 11:1, 18; 12:11Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus, of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha. (John 11:1)
18Now Bethany was nigh unto Jerusalem, about fifteen furlongs off: (John 11:18)
1Then Jesus six days before the passover came to Bethany, where Lazarus was which had been dead, whom he raised from the dead. (John 12:1).-It signifies 'house of dates.' It was where Lazarus and his sisters resided, and where the Lord found a sort of retreat. It was here that Lazarus was raised from the dead, and it was near this place that the Lord ascended into heaven, on the east slope of the mount of Olives, about two miles from Jerusalem. It is now a miserable hamlet called El. Azariyeh, ' the place of Lazarus.' Cf. Bethabara.
Bethesda
John 5:22Now there is at Jerusalem by the sheep market a pool, which is called in the Hebrew tongue Bethesda, having five porches. (John 5:2).-Its meaning is probably 'house of effusion, or mercy.' It had five porches, in which lay the sick and infirm, waiting for the agitation of the water by an angel. It was near the sheep gate or market. See article on Jerusalem, after article “The division of Time”.
Bethlehem
Matt, 2:1, 6, 8, 16; Luke 2:4, 154And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) (Luke 2:4)
15And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. (Luke 2:15); John 7:4242Hath not the scripture said, That Christ cometh of the seed of David, and out of the town of Bethlehem, where David was? (John 7:42).-It signifies 'house of bread.' It was the birthplace of the Lord, and is called ‘the city of David,' Luke 2:11,11For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. (Luke 2:11) because David was born there. This must not be confounded with Zion, which is also called 'the city of David,' 2 Sam. 5:77Nevertheless David took the strong hold of Zion: the same is the city of David. (2 Samuel 5:7). Its modern name is Beit-lahm. It lies five miles south of Jerusalem, is a better town than some in Palestine, and has about 2,000 inhabitants. It seems beautifully significant that the One who was emphatically the ‘bread of God’ and the ‘bread of life’ should have been born in ‘the House of Bread’.
Bethphage
Matt. 21:11And when they drew nigh unto Jerusalem, and were come to Bethphage, unto the mount of Olives, then sent Jesus two disciples, (Matthew 21:1); Mark 2:11And again he entered into Capernaum after some days; and it was noised that he was in the house. (Mark 2:1); Luke 19:29,29And it came to pass, when he was come nigh to Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount called the mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples, (Luke 19:29)-It signifies ‘house of figs.' A village on the eastern declivity of the mount of Olives, not far from Bethany. Its site is not now identified.
Bethsaida
Matt. 11:2121Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works, which were done in you, had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. (Matthew 11:21) Mark 6:4545And straightway he constrained his disciples to get into the ship, and to go to the other side before unto Bethsaida, while he sent away the people. (Mark 6:45); Luke 10:1313Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works had been done in Tyre and Sidon, which have been done in you, they had a great while ago repented, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. (Luke 10:13); John 1:44; 12:2144Now Philip was of Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. (John 1:44)
21The same came therefore to Philip, which was of Bethsaida of Galilee, and desired him, saying, Sir, we would see Jesus. (John 12:21).‒It signifies 'house of fish.' There can be little doubt that there were two places of this name: indeed this is implied by one being called Bethsaida 'of Galilee,' to distinguish it from some other. This was on the west of the Lake of Tiberias near the north. In the 'woes' pronounced by the Lord, it is associated with Capernaum and Chorazin—places also near the north end of the lake. Philip, Andrew, and Peter were of this city. Its site cannot now be identified. The other Bethsaida was on the east of the lake, farther north, near the desert, where the five thousand were fed. Luke 9:10: cf, Matt. 14:1313When Jesus heard of it, he departed thence by ship into a desert place apart: and when the people had heard thereof, they followed him on foot out of the cities. (Matthew 14:13); Mark 6:3232And they departed into a desert place by ship privately. (Mark 6:32). Mark 8:2222And he cometh to Bethsaida; and they bring a blind man unto him, and besought him to touch him. (Mark 8:22) also refers to the same. This city was called 'Julias' by Philip the Tetrarch, after the emperor's daughter Julia. A mound of shapeless stones, called et-Tell, ‘the hill,' is supposed to mark its site.
Bithynia
Cæsarea
Acts 8:40; 9:30,40But Philip was found at Azotus: and passing through he preached in all the cities, till he came to Caesarea. (Acts 8:40)
30Which when the brethren knew, they brought him down to Caesarea, and sent him forth to Tarsus. (Acts 9:30) &c.-The celebrated seaport of Palestine, about 70 miles north-west of Jerusalem. Paul repeatedly visited the port in his travels. Herod built the harbor and city. It was the seat of the Roman governors, and where Paul spent two years as a prisoner. It is now called Kaisarieh, and is described as a mass of prostrate columns and ruined masonry, without an inhabitant.
Cæsarea Philippi
Matt. 16:1313When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? (Matthew 16:13); Mark 8:2727And Jesus went out, and his disciples, into the towns of Caesarea Philippi: and by the way he asked his disciples, saying unto them, Whom do men say that I am? (Mark 8:27).-In the north of Palestine, on the east of the Jordan, a little south of mount Hermon, perhaps as far north on the east of Jordan as the Lord visited. It was thus named by Philip the Tetrarch, but was originally called Paneas. Its modern name is Banias.
Calvary
Cana of Galilee
John 2:1, 11; 4:46; 21:21And the third day there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee; and the mother of Jesus was there: (John 2:1)
11This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him. (John 2:11)
46So Jesus came again into Cana of Galilee, where he made the water wine. And there was a certain nobleman, whose son was sick at Capernaum. (John 4:46)
2There were together Simon Peter, and Thomas called Didymus, and Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, and the sons of Zebedee, and two other of his disciples. (John 21:2).-The place of the Lord's first miracle, turning the water into wine, and the city to which Nathanael belonged. It was in the neighborhood of Capernaum, and on higher ground, The Lord went down to Capernaum. It has been identified by some with Kefr-Kenna, about four and a half miles north-east of Nazareth, but others prefer Kana-el-Jelil (or Khurbet Kana), about eight miles north-east of Nazareth.
Canaan
Matt, 15:22.-A name corresponding to Palestine.
Capernaum
att. 4:13; 8:5; 11:23, &c.-Remarkable as being designated the Lord's 'own city,' Matt. 9:11And he entered into a ship, and passed over, and came into his own city. (Matthew 9:1); Mark 2:11And again he entered into Capernaum after some days; and it was noised that he was in the house. (Mark 2:1). It was perhaps the place where He dwelt more than any other. There He did many miracles, and spoke many ‘gracious words,' but He was rejected there, and this called forth this solemn ‘woe' against it: it should be brought down to hades, Matt. 11:2323And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted unto heaven, shalt be brought down to hell: for if the mighty works, which have been done in thee, had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day. (Matthew 11:23). It was on the west side of the lake, 'upon the sea coast in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim.' Many identify it with Tell Hum; others prefer Khan Minyeh.
Cappadocia
Acts 2:99Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia, (Acts 2:9); 1 Peter 1:11Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, (1 Peter 1:1).-A Roman province in the most eastern part of Asia Minor, but extending eastward to the Euphrates. Jews from thence were present in Jerusalem at Pentecost; and Peter includes them in his first epistle.
Cedron
Cenchrea
Chanaan.-Same As Canaan.
Charran
Acts 7:2, 42And he said, Men, brethren, and fathers, hearken; The God of glory appeared unto our father Abraham, when he was in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Charran, (Acts 7:2)
4Then came he out of the land of the Chaldeans, and dwelt in Charran: and from thence, when his father was dead, he removed him into this land, wherein ye now dwell. (Acts 7:4).-The same as Haran, Gen. 11:31,31And Terah took Abram his son, and Lot the son of Haran his son's son, and Sarai his daughter in law, his son Abram's wife; and they went forth with them from Ur of the Chaldees, to go into the land of Canaan; and they came unto Haran, and dwelt there. (Genesis 11:31) &c., where the LXX has Χαοοάν: the plain of Mesopotamia, between the rivers Khabour and the Euphrates. There is an Arab village in the district called Harran.
Chaldזans
Land of the, Acts 7. 4.-The district between the rivers Tigris and Euphrates.
Chios
Chorazin
Matt. 11:2121Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works, which were done in you, had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. (Matthew 11:21); Luke 10:1313Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works had been done in Tyre and Sidon, which have been done in you, they had a great while ago repented, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. (Luke 10:13).-One of the cities on which a 'woe' was pronounced by the Lord because of rejecting Him, His words, and His works. It was doubtless near the lake of Gennesaret on the west side, and its site is supposed by some to be identified with Kerazeh, where are extensive ruins; but others identify it with Tell Hum.
Cilicia
Acts 6:9; 15:41; 21:399Then there arose certain of the synagogue, which is called the synagogue of the Libertines, and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia and of Asia, disputing with Stephen. (Acts 6:9)
41And he went through Syria and Cilicia, confirming the churches. (Acts 15:41)
39But Paul said, I am a man which am a Jew of Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city: and, I beseech thee, suffer me to speak unto the people. (Acts 21:39); Gal. 1:2121Afterwards I came into the regions of Syria and Cilicia; (Galatians 1:21).-A district in Asia Minor at the extreme N.E. corner of the Mediterranean. Tarsus was its capital, to which Paul belonged.
Cnidus
Colosse
Coos
Acts 21. I.-An island on the south-west of Asia Minor; same as Cos.
Corinth
Acts 18:1; 19:11After these things Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth; (Acts 18:1)
1And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, (Acts 19:1); 1 Cor. 1:22Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours: (1 Corinthians 1:2); 2 Cor. 1:1, 231Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, unto the church of God which is at Corinth, with all the saints which are in all Achaia: (2 Corinthians 1:1)
23Moreover I call God for a record upon my soul, that to spare you I came not as yet unto Corinth. (2 Corinthians 1:23); 2 Tim. 4:2020Erastus abode at Corinth: but Trophimus have I left at Miletum sick. (2 Timothy 4:20).-The learned and wealthy but dissolute capital of Achaia. There had been an earlier city, but the one referred to in the Acts was founded by Julius Caesar. Paul continued there eighteen months, and thence he wrote the first and second Epistles to the Thessalonians, and afterward the Epistle to the Romans. He had been the means of the conversion of the Corinthians, to whom he wrote the two Epistles bearing their name. Corinth is now only a mean village, with a few fragments of its former greatness.
Crete.
Acts 27:712, 13, 21; Titus 1:5, 125For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee: (Titus 1:5)
12One of themselves, even a prophet of their own, said, The Cretians are alway liars, evil beasts, slow bellies. (Titus 1:12).-A large island in the Mediterranean, not far from Greece, also called Candia. Some Jews from Crete were present in Jerusalem at Pentecost. These may have received and carried to Crete the gospel. Paul at a late date, apparently visited Crete, and left Titus there to set things in order and to ordain elders in every city. The Cretans had gained an unenviable notoriety for untruthfulness.
Cyprus
Acts 4:36; 11:19; 15:39; 21:3,16; 27:436And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus, (Acts 4:36)
19Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only. (Acts 11:19)
39And the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other: and so Barnabas took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus; (Acts 15:39)
3Now when we had discovered Cyprus, we left it on the left hand, and sailed into Syria, and landed at Tyre: for there the ship was to unlade her burden. (Acts 21:3)
16There went with us also certain of the disciples of Caesarea, and brought with them one Mnason of Cyprus, an old disciple, with whom we should lodge. (Acts 21:16)
4And when we had launched from thence, we sailed under Cyprus, because the winds were contrary. (Acts 27:4).-An extensive island at the east end of the Mediterranean: the ‘Chittim' of the Old Testament. When the church was scattered abroad at the persecution respecting Stephen, some went to Cyprus. Paul himself labored there. It is remarkable as having belonged to the nations of Greece, Persia, Rome, Egypt, and being now under the government of England.
Cyrene
Matt. 27:3232And as they came out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name: him they compelled to bear his cross. (Matthew 27:32); Acts 2:10; 11:20; 13:110Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, (Acts 2:10)
20And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus. (Acts 11:20)
1Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. (Acts 13:1).-A Greek city on the north coast of Africa, nearly opposite to Crete. Many Jews resided there, and some from thence were in Jerusalem at Pentecost; and the Cyrenians had a synagogue also in the city.
Dalmanutha.
By comparing Mark 8:1010And straightway he entered into a ship with his disciples, and came into the parts of Dalmanutha. (Mark 8:10) with Matt. 15:3939And he sent away the multitude, and took ship, and came into the coasts of Magdala. (Matthew 15:39) it appears that the 'borders of Magdala' (or 'Magadan' as some MSS. read) and the 'parts of Dalmanutha' were either the same district or very close to each other, on the west side of the lake. Dalmanutha is supposed to lie a little south of Magdala.
Dalmatia
Damascus.
A city in or just outside the northern extremity of Palestine, 33° 30 N. It is mentioned as early as Gen. 15:2,2And Abram said, Lord God, what wilt thou give me, seeing I go childless, and the steward of my house is this Eliezer of Damascus? (Genesis 15:2) and became a place of extensive commerce. In the N. T. it is of interest in connection with Paul's conversion, and as being the place where he first preached: Acts 9.; 22:5-11; 26: 12, 20; 2 Cor. 11:3232In Damascus the governor under Aretas the king kept the city of the Damascenes with a garrison, desirous to apprehend me: (2 Corinthians 11:32) Gal. 1:1717Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus. (Galatians 1:17). Damascus has still a long and wide thoroughfare that may well have been called ‘Straight Street,' Acts 9:11,11And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and inquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth, (Acts 9:11) now called 'Street of Bazaars.' It is still a large city of some 210,000 inhabitants, of which 180,000 are Mohammedans: the poverty of the Christians and Jews is great. Its natural beauties are sadly contrasted with the dirt and contamination usual in a Turkish city. A railway from Acre (Akka) to Damascus has been projected.
Decapolis,
district of 'ten cities,'Matt. 4:2525And there followed him great multitudes of people from Galilee, and from Decapolis, and from Jerusalem, and from Judea, and from beyond Jordan. (Matthew 4:25); Mark 5:20; 7:3120And he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel. (Mark 5:20)
31And again, departing from the coasts of Tyre and Sidon, he came unto the sea of Galilee, through the midst of the coasts of Decapolis. (Mark 7:31). -A district in Syria, the limits of which are unknown; the ten cities are held to be Canatha, Hippos, Abila, Gadara, Capitolias, Dium, Pella, Gerasa, Philadelphia, on the east, and Scythopolis on the west of the Jordan. (See map illustrating the Journeyings of Christ.)
Derbe
Acts 14:6, 20; 16:16They were ware of it, and fled unto Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and unto the region that lieth round about: (Acts 14:6)
20Howbeit, as the disciples stood round about him, he rose up, and came into the city: and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe. (Acts 14:20)
1Then came he to Derbe and Lystra: and, behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timotheus, the son of a certain woman, which was a Jewess, and believed; but his father was a Greek: (Acts 16:1).-A city in the plain of Lycaonia, near Lystra in Asia Minor.
Egypt.
The well-known country on the north of Africa. It, is principally referred to in the N. T. as the place where Israel was in bondage. When Herod was seeking the life of Jesus He was carried into Egypt, and thence He was called, as was Israel, as God's Son: Matt. 2:13-1913And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him. 14When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt: 15And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son. 16Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently inquired of the wise men. 17Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying, 18In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not. 19But when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeareth in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, (Matthew 2:13‑19). In Rev. 11:88And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified. (Revelation 11:8) Jerusalem is called spiritually, Sodom and Egypt.
Emmaus
Luke 24:1313And, behold, two of them went that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was from Jerusalem about threescore furlongs. (Luke 24:13).-A village about 7½ miles from Jerusalem, but in what direction is not known. It was the village to which the Lord walked in company with two of his disciples, from whose sight He vanished after breaking the bread.
Ephesus
Acts 18:19, 21, 24; 19:1, 17, 26; 20:16, 1719And he came to Ephesus, and left them there: but he himself entered into the synagogue, and reasoned with the Jews. (Acts 18:19)
21But bade them farewell, saying, I must by all means keep this feast that cometh in Jerusalem: but I will return again unto you, if God will. And he sailed from Ephesus. (Acts 18:21)
24And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus. (Acts 18:24)
1And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, (Acts 19:1)
17And this was known to all the Jews and Greeks also dwelling at Ephesus; and fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified. (Acts 19:17)
26Moreover ye see and hear, that not alone at Ephesus, but almost throughout all Asia, this Paul hath persuaded and turned away much people, saying that they be no gods, which are made with hands: (Acts 19:26)
16For Paul had determined to sail by Ephesus, because he would not spend the time in Asia: for he hasted, if it were possible for him, to be at Jerusalem the day of Pentecost. 17And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church. (Acts 20:16‑17); 1 Cor. 15:32; 16:832If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die. (1 Corinthians 15:32)
8But I will tarry at Ephesus until Pentecost. (1 Corinthians 16:8); Eph. 1:11Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus: (Ephesians 1:1); 1 Tim. 1:33As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine, (1 Timothy 1:3); 2 Tim. 1:18; 4:1218The Lord grant unto him that he may find mercy of the Lord in that day: and in how many things he ministered unto me at Ephesus, thou knowest very well. (2 Timothy 1:18)
12And Tychicus have I sent to Ephesus. (2 Timothy 4:12); Rev. 1:11; 2:111Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea. (Revelation 1:11)
1Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; (Revelation 2:1). -The capital of proconsular Asia, a large and luxurious city lying near the sea on the west of Asia Minor, renowned for its commerce, and its heathen temple which drew many pilgrims to the place. In the Revelation Ephesus is the first named of the seven churches in Asia. There is now, besides extensive ruins and a railway station, only a wretched Turkish village, called Ayasolook.
Ephraim
Euphrates
Rev. 9:1414Saying to the sixth angel which had the trumpet, Loose the four angels which are bound in the great river Euphrates. (Revelation 9:14).; 16:12.-The well-known river on which the city of Babylon was built; it formed the boundary that separated the nations of the East from the promised land. It has two sources in the far north, which unite and form a broad and deep river; it runs nearly south, and is eventually joined by the river Tigris, and empties itself into the Persian Gulf.
Fair Havens
Acts 27:88And, hardly passing it, came unto a place which is called The fair havens; nigh whereunto was the city of Lasea. (Acts 27:8).-A harbor on the south of Crete. It is shut in on the west by a bold headland, and on the south it is sheltered by an island, forming thus a safe anchorage; but being open to the east it is 'incommodious' to winter in.
Gabbatha.
John 19:1313When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he brought Jesus forth, and sat down in the judgment seat in a place that is called the Pavement, but in the Hebrew, Gabbatha. (John 19:13).-the Hebrew Name of the Place of Judgment at Jerusalem, Called the Pavement (Probably Tessellated), Because It Was Paved With Stones, As the Greek Word Implies; but the Hebrew Word Signifies 'High or Elevated.'
Galatia
Acts 16:6; 18:236Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia, (Acts 16:6)
23And after he had spent some time there, he departed, and went over all the country of Galatia and Phrygia in order, strengthening all the disciples. (Acts 18:23); 1 Cor. 16.; Gal. 1:22And all the brethren which are with me, unto the churches of Galatia: (Galatians 1:2); 2 Tim. 4:1010For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia. (2 Timothy 4:10); 1 Peter 1:11Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, (1 Peter 1:1).‒A central province in Asia Minor, having Bithynia on the north, and Lycaonia on the south. The district was not always of the same extent: Lystra and Derbe in Lycaonia may have formed part of Galatia in the time of the Acts. Paul speaks of ‘the churches' of Galatia, but where these assemblies were situated is not known.
Galilee.-
A large district towards the north of Palestine on the west of the Jordan and the lake, having Samaria on its south. After the captivity, many from various nations settled in Galilee, which accounts for its being called 'Galilee of the Gentiles,' Matt. 4:1515The land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephthalim, by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles; (Matthew 4:15); though many Jews were there also. In Galilee much of the time of the Lord's ministry was spent, Matt. 4:2323And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people. (Matthew 4:23); Mark 1:3939And he preached in their synagogues throughout all Galilee, and cast out devils. (Mark 1:39); and there many of His miracles were performed, which called forth the doom of those that rejected Him. Galilee had many towns and villages, and was thickly populated.
Gaza
Acts 8:2626And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert. (Acts 8:26).-A village situated near the Mediterranean, about 31° 30' N., now called Ghuzzeh. Water may still be seen near the road in the neighborhood of which the Ethiopian was baptized: it is a district 'without villages or fixed habitation.'
Gennesaret, Lake of; Sea of Galilee; Sea of Tiberias.-
See description in “Physical features of Palestine”.
Gennesaret, Land of
Gethsemane
Matt. 26:3636Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder. (Matthew 26:36); Mark 14:3232And they came to a place which was named Gethsemane: and he saith to his disciples, Sit ye here, while I shall pray. (Mark 14:32).-A garden on the slope of the Mount of Olives, to which our Lord often resorted with His disciples. The brook Cedron had to be crossed to reach the spot from Jerusalem. It was the place of the Lord's agony, where He was exceeding sorrowful even unto death,' His agony ' being such that the ground was moistened with His sweat as drops of blood! Here He was betrayed and taken prisoner. An enclosed space, in which are eight old olive trees, is shown to travelers as the garden of Gethsemane; but there is no certainty that this is the right spot. Titus cut down all the trees round Jerusalem at its siege.
Golgotha.
See article on Jerusalem, after article “The division of Time”.
Gomorrha.
See Sodom.
Greece
Hierapolis
Iconium
Acts 13:51; 14:1, 19, 21; 16:251But they shook off the dust of their feet against them, and came unto Iconium. (Acts 13:51)
1And it came to pass in Iconium, that they went both together into the synagogue of the Jews, and so spake, that a great multitude both of the Jews and also of the Greeks believed. (Acts 14:1)
19And there came thither certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people, and, having stoned Paul, drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead. (Acts 14:19)
21And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch, (Acts 14:21)
2Which was well reported of by the brethren that were at Lystra and Iconium. (Acts 16:2); 2 Tim. 3:1111Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me. (2 Timothy 3:11)-A large city in Lycaonia, Asia Minor. Most of the cities in Asia were inhabited by Jews and Gentiles, and here a great number of Jews and Greeks believed, resulting in an assembly being gathered. It is now called Konieh, a town of considerable extent.
Idumזa
Illyricum
Italy
Iturזa
Jericho
Matt. 20:2929And as they departed from Jericho, a great multitude followed him. (Matthew 20:29); Mark 10:4646And they came to Jericho: and as he went out of Jericho with his disciples and a great number of people, blind Bartimeus, the son of Timeus, sat by the highway side begging. (Mark 10:46); Luke 10:30; 18:35; 19:130And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. (Luke 10:30)
35And it came to pass, that as he was come nigh unto Jericho, a certain blind man sat by the way side begging: (Luke 18:35)
1And Jesus entered and passed through Jericho. (Luke 19:1); Heb. 11:3030By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days. (Hebrews 11:30).-A city about fifteen miles N.E. of Jerusalem, and five miles from the Jordan. In N. T. times, after having been burnt down, it was restored with great splendor by Archelaus. The road from Jerusalem to Jericho is still at times unsafe. It is some 1,800 feet below Jerusalem, being a more or less steep descent all the way. The miserable village of Riha is sometimes called Jericho; but this is a mile and a half from where ancient Jericho is believed to have stood.
Jerusalem.
See article on Jerusalem, after article “The division of Time”.
Jewry
Joppa
Acts 9:36; 11:1336Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did. (Acts 9:36)
13And he showed us how he had seen an angel in his house, which stood and said unto him, Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is Peter; (Acts 11:13).-A sea-port town in the Mediterranean, N.W. of Jerusalem; it is the nearest port to that city, but has no safe landing place. This is where Peter had the vision of the sheet from heaven, to prepare him for visiting Cornelius. Its population is about 5,000, of which 1,000 are nominal Christians. Its modern name is Yaffa or Jaffa. A railway now runs from Jaffa to Jerusalem.
Jordan.
See Physical Features of Palestinejuda
Judזa.
The province containing all the country south of Galilee and west of the Jordan, John 4:3, 47, 54,3He left Judea, and departed again into Galilee. (John 4:3)
47When he heard that Jesus was come out of Judea into Galilee, he went unto him, and besought him that he would come down, and heal his son: for he was at the point of death. (John 4:47)
54This is again the second miracle that Jesus did, when he was come out of Judea into Galilee. (John 4:54) &c. In some passages the name has a wider meaning; in Matt. 19:11And it came to pass, that when Jesus had finished these sayings, he departed from Galilee, and came into the coasts of Judea beyond Jordan; (Matthew 19:1) it includes the east of the Jordan, and in Luke 1:5,5There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth. (Luke 1:5) where Herod is called 'king of Judaea,' it signifies the whole of Palestine.
Laodicea
Col. 2:1; 4:13, 15, 161For I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh; (Colossians 2:1)
13For I bear him record, that he hath a great zeal for you, and them that are in Laodicea, and them in Hierapolis. (Colossians 4:13)
15Salute the brethren which are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church which is in his house. 16And when this epistle is read among you, cause that it be read also in the church of the Laodiceans; and that ye likewise read the epistle from Laodicea. (Colossians 4:15‑16); Rev. 1:11; 3:1411Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea. (Revelation 1:11)
14And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God; (Revelation 3:14).-In Phrygia, or Caria, in the west of Asia Minor. It was formally called Diospolis, but was re-built by Antiochus Theos, and named after his wife Laodice. It was completely destroyed by an earthquake, but the inhabitants were wealthy enough to rebuild the city, without asking aid from the state: cf. Rev. 3:1717Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: (Revelation 3:17). A traveler says: "Nothing can exceed the desolation and melancholy appearance of the site of Laodicea." A village among the extensive ruins is named Eski-hissar. See Ephesus, note.
Lasea
Libya
Libya
Acts 14:6, 116They were ware of it, and fled unto Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and unto the region that lieth round about: (Acts 14:6)
11And when the people saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in the speech of Lycaonia, The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men. (Acts 14:11).-A district in Asia Minor, lying between Cappadocia and Pisidia, Galatia and Cilicia. Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe were its principal towns. The crowds spoke in the provincial Greek dialect of the place.
Lycia
Lydda
Acts 9:32-3832And it came to pass, as Peter passed throughout all quarters, he came down also to the saints which dwelt at Lydda. 33And there he found a certain man named Eneas, which had kept his bed eight years, and was sick of the palsy. 34And Peter said unto him, Eneas, Jesus Christ maketh thee whole: arise, and make thy bed. And he arose immediately. 35And all that dwelt at Lydda and Saron saw him, and turned to the Lord. 36Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did. 37And it came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and died: whom when they had washed, they laid her in an upper chamber. 38And forasmuch as Lydda was nigh to Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him two men, desiring him that he would not delay to come to them. (Acts 9:32‑38).-In the plains of Sharon, twelve miles from Joppa, on the south-east. Here Peter cured ֶneas of the palsy. In the fourth century it had its bishop, and there are still the remains of a church. The name is the same as the Hebrew Lod, and the present village is called Lud.
Lystra
Acts 14:6, 8, 21; 16:1, 26They were ware of it, and fled unto Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and unto the region that lieth round about: (Acts 14:6)
8And there sat a certain man at Lystra, impotent in his feet, being a cripple from his mother's womb, who never had walked: (Acts 14:8)
21And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch, (Acts 14:21)
1Then came he to Derbe and Lystra: and, behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timotheus, the son of a certain woman, which was a Jewess, and believed; but his father was a Greek: 2Which was well reported of by the brethren that were at Lystra and Iconium. (Acts 16:1‑2); 2 Tim. 3:1111Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me. (2 Timothy 3:11).-A city, near Derbe, in Lycaonia in Asia Minor. It was here that the heathen wished to sacrifice to Paul and Barnabas, but afterward, being influenced by the Jews, they stoned Paul and left him for dead.
Macedonia
Acts 16:99And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us. (Acts 16:9).; Rom. 15:2626For it hath pleased them of Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor saints which are at Jerusalem. (Romans 15:26); 2 Cor. 1:16; 2:13; 8:116And to pass by you into Macedonia, and to come again out of Macedonia unto you, and of you to be brought on my way toward Judea. (2 Corinthians 1:16)
13I had no rest in my spirit, because I found not Titus my brother: but taking my leave of them, I went from thence into Macedonia. (2 Corinthians 2:13)
1Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia; (2 Corinthians 8:1); Thess. 4:10; 1 Tim. 1:3,3As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine, (1 Timothy 1:3) &c.-The northern part of Greece, from whence sprang the third great empire of Daniel. It was the first district in Europe in which the gospel was preached by Paul.
Madian, Land of
Acts 7:2929Then fled Moses at this saying, and was a stranger in the land of Madian, where he begat two sons. (Acts 7:29).-The same as Midian, named after the fourth son of Abraham by Keturah. His descendants are supposed to have dwelt on the eastern border of Edom, but were not stationary, being nomads.
Magdala
Matt. 15:3939And he sent away the multitude, and took ship, and came into the coasts of Magdala. (Matthew 15:39).-On the west of the Lake of Gennesaret, a little north of its center. It is memorable on account of Mary Magdalene, or 'of Magdala.' It now consists of about 20 huts, and is called Mejdel.
Mar's Hill-See Areopagus.
Melita
Mesopotamia
Acts 2:9; 7:29Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia, (Acts 2:9)
2And he said, Men, brethren, and fathers, hearken; The God of glory appeared unto our father Abraham, when he was in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Charran, (Acts 7:2).-The region lying between the rivers Euphrates and the Tigris. It is where Nahor and Abraham lived, and from whence Jews came to the feasts at Jerusalem in the days of the apostles. It was merged in the Babylonian Empire.
Miletum, Miletus
Mitylene
Nain
Luke 7:1111And it came to pass the day after, that he went into a city called Nain; and many of his disciples went with him, and much people. (Luke 7:11).-In Galilee, some 8 miles south by east of Nazareth. The approach to the place is by a steep ascent from the plain of Esdraelon; rocks and sepulchers abound in the vicinity. It is where Jesus raised to life the widow's son. It is now a small hamlet of about 20 houses, and is called Nein.
Nazareth
Matt. 2:2323And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall be called a Nazarene. (Matthew 2:23); Mark 1:99And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan. (Mark 1:9); Luke 2:39, 5139And when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth. (Luke 2:39)
51And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart. (Luke 2:51); John 1:4646And Nathanael said unto him, Can there any good thing come out of Nazareth? Philip saith unto him, Come and see. (John 1:46); Acts 2:22,22Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know: (Acts 2:22) &c. -A town in Galilee, lying 6 miles west of mount Tabor. Though on a mountain it is surrounded by hills, which shelter it from the bleak winds. It was here that Joseph and Mary took up their abode on their return from Egypt, and where the Lord probably spent the earlier years of His life. The place was despised by the Jews, which led Nathanael to ask, "Can there any good thing come out of Nazareth?" and to the Lord being called a Nazarene, as an inhabitant of Nazareth. Acts 24:55For we have found this man a pestilent fellow, and a mover of sedition among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes: (Acts 24:5) shows that the term ‘Nazarene' was applied to the early Christians, and indeed to this day in Palestine Christians are often called Nazarenes. Travelers say it is easy to find the hill, headlong down which the inhabitants sought to cast the Lord, when He spoke to them of grace having gone forth to the Gentiles, Luke 4:2929And rose up, and thrust him out of the city, and led him unto the brow of the hill whereon their city was built, that they might cast him down headlong. (Luke 4:29). Nazareth is now called en-Nasirah, and has between 3,000 and 4,000 inhabitants. On the hill-side is a famous spring called the 'Fountain of the Virgin,' and there is but little doubt that at this fountain nearly two thousand years ago might have been seen the mother of the Lord with her pitcher, as the women of the place may now be seen at the close of the day.
Neapolis
Acts 16:1111Therefore loosing from Troas, we came with a straight course to Samothracia, and the next day to Neapolis; (Acts 16:11)-The seaport of Philippi, where Paul first landed in Europe. It is now called Kavala, on the coast of Roumelia. It has a population of about 5,000, mostly Moslems.
Nephthalim.
See ZABULON.
Nicopolis,
‘City of Victory,'Titus 3:1212When I shall send Artemas unto thee, or Tychicus, be diligent to come unto me to Nicopolis: for I have determined there to winter. (Titus 3:12).-There Were Several Places of This Name; but the One Alluded to Is Supposed to Be Situated in the Epirus, South-West of Macedonia. Paul Had Determined to Winter at This Place.
Nineve
Matt. 12:4141The men of Nineveh shall rise in judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: because they repented at the preaching of Jonas; and, behold, a greater than Jonas is here. (Matthew 12:41); Luke 11:30, 3230For as Jonas was a sign unto the Ninevites, so shall also the Son of man be to this generation. (Luke 11:30)
32The men of Nineve shall rise up in the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for they repented at the preaching of Jonas; and, behold, a greater than Jonas is here. (Luke 11:32).-The Nineveh of the Old Testament, the capital of the Assyrian empire, situate on the Tigris, about 36° 20 N. The Ninevites repented at the preaching of Jonah, and they will rise up in judgment against the inhabitants of Palestine, who did not repent at the preaching and miracles of the Lord. Nineveh sinned afterward, and was destroyed, Ezek. 31.; Zeph. 2:13-1513And he will stretch out his hand against the north, and destroy Assyria; and will make Nineveh a desolation, and dry like a wilderness. 14And flocks shall lie down in the midst of her, all the beasts of the nations: both the cormorant and the bittern shall lodge in the upper lintels of it; their voice shall sing in the windows; desolation shall be in the thresholds: for he shall uncover the cedar work. 15This is the rejoicing city that dwelt carelessly, that said in her heart, I am, and there is none beside me: how is she become a desolation, a place for beasts to lie down in! every one that passeth by her shall hiss, and wag his hand. (Zephaniah 2:13‑15). Its ruins are extensive, and many ancient monuments have been discovered, and are in the European museums.
Pamphylia
Acts 2:10; 13:13; 14:24; 15:38; 27:510Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, (Acts 2:10)
13Now when Paul and his company loosed from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia: and John departing from them returned to Jerusalem. (Acts 13:13)
24And after they had passed throughout Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia. (Acts 14:24)
38But Paul thought not good to take him with them, who departed from them from Pamphylia, and went not with them to the work. (Acts 15:38)
5And when we had sailed over the sea of Cilicia and Pamphylia, we came to Myra, a city of Lycia. (Acts 27:5) A district in Asia Minor visited by Paul. It lies on the south coast, with Cilicia on the, east, and Lycia on the west.
Paphos
Patara
Patmos
Rev. 1:99I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ. (Revelation 1:9).-The island to which the apostle John was banished, by Domitian as is supposed. It is a rocky island in the a ֶgean Sea, near Samos. There is a town half an hour's climb from the harbor, with 4,000 or 5,000 Greek inhabitants. The island is now called Patino.
Perga
Pergamos
Rev. 1:11; 2:1211Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea. (Revelation 1:11)
12And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges; (Revelation 2:12).-An ancient city of Mysia, in the N.W. of Asia Minor. The city is still of some importance, with a population of about 14,000, of which 3,000 are nominal Christians. See Ephesus, note.
Phenice
Acts 27:1212And because the haven was not commodious to winter in, the more part advised to depart thence also, if by any means they might attain to Phenice, and there to winter; which is an haven of Crete, and lieth toward the south west and north west. (Acts 27:12).-A town and harbor in Crete. The vessel in which Paul sailed was attempting to reach this harbor when it was caught by the wind and wrecked. The Authorized Version says the haven "lieth toward the S.W. and N.W.;" but the expression is now held to mean that it "looks towards the N.E. and S.E." It has been identified with the modern Lutro. This harbor is described as being open to the east, but a small island lies almost in front of it; it has thus two entrances, one looking to the N.E., and the other to S.E. See also under Phœnicia.
Philadelphia
Rev. 1:11; 3:711Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea. (Revelation 1:11)
7And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth; (Revelation 3:7).-A city in Lydia, in the west of Asia Minor. It was built by Attalus Philadelphus, king of Pergamos. It has several times been more or less destroyed by earthquakes. It is still a considerable town, named Ala-Shehr. See Ephesus, note.
Philippi
Acts 16:12; 20:612And from thence to Philippi, which is the chief city of that part of Macedonia, and a colony: and we were in that city abiding certain days. (Acts 16:12)
6And we sailed away from Philippi after the days of unleavened bread, and came unto them to Troas in five days; where we abode seven days. (Acts 20:6); Phil. 1:11Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons: (Philippians 1:1); 1 Thess. 2:22But even after that we had suffered before, and were shamefully entreated, as ye know, at Philippi, we were bold in our God to speak unto you the gospel of God with much contention. (1 Thessalonians 2:2).-A noted city of Macedonia, named after Philip, the father of Alexander the Great. It was a Roman military colony. Here Lydia was converted, and the jailor and his house. The word was so effectual that an assembly was gathered, the first in Europe, and an epistle was written to the saints there. It was called the chief (or rather first) city, not of Macedonia as a whole, but of that part of Macedonia. Extensive ruins are now all that are left of the city.
Phœnicia, Phenice, Phenicia
Phrygia
Acts 2:10; 16:6; 18:2110Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, (Acts 2:10)
6Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia, (Acts 16:6)
21But bade them farewell, saying, I must by all means keep this feast that cometh in Jerusalem: but I will return again unto you, if God will. And he sailed from Ephesus. (Acts 18:21).-A large district in the center of Asia Minor, having Bithynia on the north, and Pisidia on the south; but its extent varied at different times. Jews from this district were at Jerusalem on the day of Pentecost, and Paul twice traversed the plain in his missionary journeys.
Pisidia
Acts 13:14; 14:2414But when they departed from Perga, they came to Antioch in Pisidia, and went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and sat down. (Acts 13:14)
24And after they had passed throughout Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia. (Acts 14:24).-A comparatively narrow district in Asia Minor, between Phrygia and Pamphylia. It is a mountainous country, and was inhabited by a wild and lawless people, who were never thoroughly subdued by either the Greeks or the Romans. It was twice visited by Paul, and it may have been here that he experienced the 'perils of robbers,' of which he speaks.
Pontus
Acts 2:9; 18:29Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia, (Acts 2:9)
2And found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately come from Italy, with his wife Priscilla; (because that Claudius had commanded all Jews to depart from Rome:) and came unto them. (Acts 18:2); 1 Peter 1:11Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, (1 Peter 1:1).‒The N.E. district of Asia Minor, forming part of the coast of the Euxine Sea. Jews from thence were at Jerusalem on the day of Pentecost, and some were addressed as believers by Peter in his first Epistle. It was made a Roman province under Nero.
Ptolemais
Acts 21:77And when we had finished our course from Tyre, we came to Ptolemais, and saluted the brethren, and abode with them one day. (Acts 21:7).-A maritime town in Palestine 32° 55 N. Its name was Accho, but was changed by the Ptolemies. Napoleon called it the key of Palestine, and it has been the scene of several sieges. It is now called Acre or Akka.
Puteoli
Rama
Matt. 2:1818In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not. (Matthew 2:18).-Called in Jer. 31:1515Thus saith the Lord; A voice was heard in Ramah, lamentation, and bitter weeping; Rahel weeping for her children refused to be comforted for her children, because they were not. (Jeremiah 31:15) Ramah -Rachel was the mother of Benjamin, and Ramah was a town in Benjamin; but the children to be killed were in Bethlehem of Judah: still the two tribes were so united that the passage represents Rachel weeping for her children. In Jeremiah the weeping appears to be for the children of Ephraim; Rachel being the grandmother of Ephraim, they can also be called her children. Rama is identified with Er-Ram, about 5½ miles north of Jerusalem.
Red Sea
Acts 7:3636He brought them out, after that he had showed wonders and signs in the land of Egypt, and in the Red sea, and in the wilderness forty years. (Acts 7:36); Heb. 11:2929By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry land: which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned. (Hebrews 11:29).-The well-known sea on the east of northern Africa. Its southern extremity opens into the Indian Ocean, and from thence it runs N.N.W. for about 1,400 miles. Near its northern extremity it divides into the Gulf of Suez on the west, in length about 200 miles, and the Gulf of Akaba to the east, 140 miles long. It was, as far as is known, the Gulf of Suez that the Israelites crossed, near its northern extremity.
Rhegium.
Acts 28:1313And from thence we fetched a compass, and came to Rhegium: and after one day the south wind blew, and we came the next day to Puteoli: (Acts 28:13).A city on the coast of Italy, near its S.W. extremity. Paul's ship waited there one day for a favorable wind. The place is now called Reggio, and is the capital of Calabria.
Rhodes
Rome
Acts 2:10; 18:2; 23:11; 28:1610Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, (Acts 2:10)
2And found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately come from Italy, with his wife Priscilla; (because that Claudius had commanded all Jews to depart from Rome:) and came unto them. (Acts 18:2)
11And the night following the Lord stood by him, and said, Be of good cheer, Paul: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness also at Rome. (Acts 23:11)
16And when we came to Rome, the centurion delivered the prisoners to the captain of the guard: but Paul was suffered to dwell by himself with a soldier that kept him. (Acts 28:16); Rom. 1:7,157To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. (Romans 1:7)
15So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also. (Romans 1:15). The well known chief city of Italy. It is only mentioned in the N.T. by name as the seat of the Roman Empire, but is also referred to as the head of apostate Christendom: cf. Rev. 17.
Salamis
Acts 13:55And when they were at Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews: and they had also John to their minister. (Acts 13:5).-A city on the S.E. of Cyprus. By synagogues (in the plural) being mentioned, there were doubtless many Jews living in the place when Paul and Barnabas visited it.
Salem
Salim
Salmone
Samaria
Some passages refer to the district, situate in the center of Palestine, through which travelers passed from Judזa to Galilee, Luke 17:1111And it came to pass, as he went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee. (Luke 17:11); John 4:4, 54And he must needs go through Samaria. 5Then cometh he to a city of Samaria, which is called Sychar, near to the parcel of ground that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. (John 4:4‑5) Acts 1:8; 15:3,8But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. (Acts 1:8)
3And being brought on their way by the church, they passed through Phenice and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the Gentiles: and they caused great joy unto all the brethren. (Acts 15:3) &c. In Acts 8:5, 9, 145Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them. (Acts 8:5)
9But there was a certain man, called Simon, which beforetime in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one: (Acts 8:9)
14Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John: (Acts 8:14) the city of Samaria is spoken of. It was in the O.T. the capital of Israel after the division, 1 Kings 16:2929And in the thirty and eighth year of Asa king of Judah began Ahab the son of Omri to reign over Israel: and Ahab the son of Omri reigned over Israel in Samaria twenty and two years. (1 Kings 16:29). It was rased to the ground by John Hyrcanus but was afterward rebuilt and enlarged by Herod, who called it Sebaste. This was the city visited by Philip. It is beautifully situated, about 6 miles north-west of Nablous, but is now only a miserable village, called Sebustiyeh, with many relics of its former grandeur.
Samos
Samothracia
Sardis
Rev. 1:11; 3:1, 411Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea. (Revelation 1:11)
1And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. (Revelation 3:1)
4Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy. (Revelation 3:4).-Once the rich and chief city of Lydia (where Crsus was king) in the west of Asia Minor. In the thirteenth century it was destroyed, and now there is only a village with a few inhabitants. See Ephesus, note.
Sarepta
Luke 4:2626But unto none of them was Elias sent, save unto Sarepta, a city of Sidon, unto a woman that was a widow. (Luke 4:26) (called in 1 Kings 17:9,9Arise, get thee to Zarephath, which belongeth to Zidon, and dwell there: behold, I have commanded a widow woman there to sustain thee. (1 Kings 17:9) Zarephath).-It was on or near the seashore in Phœnice, between Tire and Sidon. Its being a Gentile town gives point to the Lord's reference to it, A poor village on the hills is called Surafend, but the ruins are on the seashore.
Saron
Seleucia.
Acts 13:44So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus. (Acts 13:4).A seaport of Syria, in the north, near to Antioch, and where Paul and Barnabas landed on their first missionary journey. It is now all deserted.
Sidon
Matt. 11:21; 15:2121Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works, which were done in you, had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. (Matthew 11:21)
21Then Jesus went thence, and departed into the coasts of Tyre and Sidon. (Matthew 15:21); Mark 3:8; 7:248And from Jerusalem, and from Idumea, and from beyond Jordan; and they about Tyre and Sidon, a great multitude, when they had heard what great things he did, came unto him. (Mark 3:8)
24And from thence he arose, and went into the borders of Tyre and Sidon, and entered into an house, and would have no man know it: but he could not be hid. (Mark 7:24); Luke 4:26; 6:17; 10:1326But unto none of them was Elias sent, save unto Sarepta, a city of Sidon, unto a woman that was a widow. (Luke 4:26)
17And he came down with them, and stood in the plain, and the company of his disciples, and a great multitude of people out of all Judea and Jerusalem, and from the sea coast of Tyre and Sidon, which came to hear him, and to be healed of their diseases; (Luke 6:17)
13Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works had been done in Tyre and Sidon, which have been done in you, they had a great while ago repented, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. (Luke 10:13); Acts 12:20; 27: 320And Herod was highly displeased with them of Tyre and Sidon: but they came with one accord to him, and, having made Blastus the king's chamberlain their friend, desired peace; because their country was nourished by the king's country. (Acts 12:20) (called Zidon in the O.T.).-A port and city in Phœnice. It was of great renown in O.T. times, but was prophesied against by Jehovah. The place is still a green spot, and its fruits of the best quality.
Siloam
Siloamtower of
Sion
Matt. 21:55Tell ye the daughter of Sion, Behold, thy King cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an ass, and a colt the foal of an ass. (Matthew 21:5); John 12:1515Fear not, daughter of Sion: behold, thy King cometh, sitting on an ass's colt. (John 12:15); Rom. 9:33; 11:2633As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. (Romans 9:33)
26And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob: (Romans 11:26); Heb. 12:2222But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, (Hebrews 12:22); 1 Peter 2:66Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded. (1 Peter 2:6) Rev. 14:11And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with him an hundred forty and four thousand, having his Father's name written in their foreheads. (Revelation 14:1).-Same as Mount Zion of the O. T. It was evidently a part of Jerusalem, which was also called the city of David, and where he dwelt: 2 Sam. 5:77Nevertheless David took the strong hold of Zion: the same is the city of David. (2 Samuel 5:7); 1 Chron. 11:77And David dwelt in the castle; therefore they called it the city of David. (1 Chronicles 11:7). The ark was afterward taken to the same place. From this connection it came to be typical of the place of blessing, and also of the Messiah's royal power on earth. It is not certain which part of Jerusalem was Mount Zion: it was probably on the S.W., communicating with the temple area by a bridge.
Sina, Sinai, Mount
Acts 7:30, 3830And when forty years were expired, there appeared to him in the wilderness of mount Sina an angel of the Lord in a flame of fire in a bush. (Acts 7:30)
38This is he, that was in the church in the wilderness with the angel which spake to him in the mount Sina, and with our fathers: who received the lively oracles to give unto us: (Acts 7:38); Gal. 4:24, 2524Which things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants; the one from the mount Sinai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Agar. 25For this Agar is mount Sinai in Arabia, and answereth to Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children. (Galatians 4:24‑25).-In the O. T. Mount Sinai and Mount Horeb are closely associated; so Acts 7. speaks of the angel of the Lord appearing to Moses in a flame of fire in a bush in the wilderness of Mount Sina; whereas Ex. 3:11Now Moses kept the flock of Jethro his father in law, the priest of Midian: and he led the flock to the backside of the desert, and came to the mountain of God, even to Horeb. (Exodus 3:1) speaks of it as being on the mountain of God, even Horeb. A range of hills lies between the Gulf of Suez and the Gulf of Akabah, which bears the names of Horeb and Sinai, the former embracing a larger range than the latter. In the Galatians it is used symbolically to point out the bondage of the law in contrast to the liberty of the children of God.
Smyrna
Rev. 1:11; 2:811Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea. (Revelation 1:11)
8And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive; (Revelation 2:8).-A renowned commercial city in the west of Asia Minor, about 40 miles north of Ephesus. Polycarp is called in history the first bishop of Smyrna: it is where he suffered martyrdom. Modern Smyrna is a large city of more than 180,000 inhabitants; many are attached to the Greek and Armenian churches. Steamers from Europe call there. See Ephesus, note.
Sodom, Sodoma
Matt. 10:15; 11:23 2315Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city. (Matthew 10:15); Mark 6:1111And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear you, when ye depart thence, shake off the dust under your feet for a testimony against them. Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city. (Mark 6:11); Luke 10:12; 17:2912But I say unto you, that it shall be more tolerable in that day for Sodom, than for that city. (Luke 10:12)
29But the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all. (Luke 17:29); Rom. 9:2929And as Esaias said before, Except the Lord of Sabaoth had left us a seed, we had been as Sodoma, and been made like unto Gomorrha. (Romans 9:29); 2 Peter 2. 6; Jude 77Even as Sodom and Gomorrha, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire. (Jude 7); Rev. 11:88And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified. (Revelation 11:8).-Mostly associated with Gomorrah, cities of the plain, the destruction of which by direct judgment from heaven is recorded in Gen. 19., and is ever afterward held up as a warning to the wicked; and as pointing out that the rejecters of Christ and His gospel must look for an even more severe condemnation. In Revelation 11:8,8And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified. (Revelation 11:8) Jerusalem, because of its grievous sins, is"spiritually called Sodom." The situation of the cities has not been traced, but they are supposed to have some association with the Dead Sea.
Spain
Sychar
John 4:55Then cometh he to a city of Samaria, which is called Sychar, near to the parcel of ground that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. (John 4:5).-A city of Samaria, "near to the parcel of ground that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. Now Jacob's well was there." Its site has not been identified very clearly, but is associated by some with Sychem; but the Bordeaux Pilgrim, A.D. 333; speaks of Sichem as 1,000 paces from Sychar. Others place it at Askar.
Sychem
Acts 7:1616And were carried over into Sychem, and laid in the sepulchre that Abraham bought for a sum of money of the sons of Emmor the father of Sychem. (Acts 7:16).-The Greek form of Shechem. This is now mostly identified with the modern Nablous, which contains a small Samaritan synagogue, and five mosques. About a mile and a half to the S.E. is what is said to be Jacob's well, and about a quarter of a mile to the north of this is the reputed Joseph's tomb. Near to Nablous are the mountains of Ebal and Gerizim, on the latter of which the Samaritans still kill and eat the Passover, and there are ruins on a spot where it is supposed their temple stood: cf. John 4:2020Our fathers worshipped in this mountain; and ye say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship. (John 4:20).
Syracuse
Acts 28:1212And landing at Syracuse, we tarried there three days. (Acts 28:12).-A renowned city on the east coast of Sicily. Paul spent three days there on his voyage to Rome.
Syria. Matt. 4:2424And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them. (Matthew 4:24); Acts 15:2341, &C.-It Is Named With Cilicia, and Associated With the Mission to the Gentiles. Syria Lies to the North of Palestine, With Mesopotamia on the East, and the Mediterranean Sea and Cilicia on the West; but the Word 'Syria' Is Used by the Romans As Including Palestine As Well As the Parts to the North.
Tarsus
Acts 9:11, 30; 11:25; 21:39; 22:311And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and inquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth, (Acts 9:11)
30Which when the brethren knew, they brought him down to Caesarea, and sent him forth to Tarsus. (Acts 9:30)
25Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul: (Acts 11:25)
39But Paul said, I am a man which am a Jew of Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city: and, I beseech thee, suffer me to speak unto the people. (Acts 21:39)
3I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as ye all are this day. (Acts 22:3).-The capital of Cilicia in Asia Minor. It was "no mean city" of a Roman province. It was where Paul was born, and was at that time celebrated as a seat of learning. Paul visited Tarsus after his conversion, but we do not know the result. It has still some thousands of inhabitants.
Thessalonica
Acts 17:1, 11, 13; 27:21Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where was a synagogue of the Jews: (Acts 17:1)
11These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so. (Acts 17:11)
13But when the Jews of Thessalonica had knowledge that the word of God was preached of Paul at Berea, they came thither also, and stirred up the people. (Acts 17:13)
2And entering into a ship of Adramyttium, we launched, meaning to sail by the coasts of Asia; one Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, being with us. (Acts 27:2); Phil. 4:1616For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity. (Philippians 4:16); 2 Tim. 4:1010For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia. (2 Timothy 4:10). A city in the S.E. of Macedonia. It was so named by Cassander, in honor of Thessalonica, the sister of Alexander the Great. It was visited by Paul on his second and third missionary journeys, and to the Thessalonians two epistles are addressed. It is now called Salonika, and, next to Constantinople, is one of the most important cities in European Turkey.
Thyatira
Acts 16:1414And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul. (Acts 16:14); Rev. 1:11; 2:18, 2411Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea. (Revelation 1:11)
18And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass; (Revelation 2:18)
24But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak; I will put upon you none other burden. (Revelation 2:24).-Situated in Lydia in the west of Asia Minor, a day's journey S.E. of Pergamos. It is still a town called Ak-hissar, where are many ruins. See Ephesus, note.
Tiberias
John 6:1, 231After these things Jesus went over the sea of Galilee, which is the sea of Tiberias. (John 6:1)
23(Howbeit there came other boats from Tiberias nigh unto the place where they did eat bread, after that the Lord had given thanks:) (John 6:23).-A city on the west shore of the Lake of Gennesaret, a little south of the center. It was founded by Herod Antipas, and named after the emperor Tiberius (the lake sometimes being called by the same name). It became the capital of the province of Galilee. It was classed by the Jews, along with Jerusalem, Hebron, and Safed, as one of their four holy cities, renowned as seats of learned men. It is now called Tubariyeh, and has a population of about 3,000.
Trachonitis
Troas
Acts 16:8, 11; 20:5, 68And they passing by Mysia came down to Troas. (Acts 16:8)
11Therefore loosing from Troas, we came with a straight course to Samothracia, and the next day to Neapolis; (Acts 16:11)
5These going before tarried for us at Troas. 6And we sailed away from Philippi after the days of unleavened bread, and came unto them to Troas in five days; where we abode seven days. (Acts 20:5‑6); 2 Cor. 2:1212Furthermore, when I came to Troas to preach Christ's gospel, and a door was opened unto me of the Lord, (2 Corinthians 2:12); 2 Tim. 4:1313The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments. (2 Timothy 4:13).-On the coast of Mysia, a little south of 40° N., called on the map Alexandria Troas. It was the port from which Paul sailed when he first visited Europe. It is now called Eski-Stamboul, where are many ruins.
Trogyllium
Tire
Luke 6:17; 10:13, 1417And he came down with them, and stood in the plain, and the company of his disciples, and a great multitude of people out of all Judea and Jerusalem, and from the sea coast of Tyre and Sidon, which came to hear him, and to be healed of their diseases; (Luke 6:17)
13Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works had been done in Tyre and Sidon, which have been done in you, they had a great while ago repented, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. 14But it shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment, than for you. (Luke 10:13‑14); Acts 21:3, 73Now when we had discovered Cyprus, we left it on the left hand, and sailed into Syria, and landed at Tyre: for there the ship was to unlade her burden. (Acts 21:3)
7And when we had finished our course from Tyre, we came to Ptolemais, and saluted the brethren, and abode with them one day. (Acts 21:7) (often associated with Sidon).-In O.T. times an ancient and renowned seaport in Phnice, about 33° 15' N. It was fearfully denounced by the prophets, and has suffered many sieges. A prophecy said, "I will also scrape her dust from her, and make her like the top of a rock.... thou shalt be no more: though thou be sought for, yet shalt thou never be found again, saith the Lord God," Ezek. 26:4, 214And they shall destroy the walls of Tyrus, and break down her towers: I will also scrape her dust from her, and make her like the top of a rock. (Ezekiel 26:4)
21I will make thee a terror, and thou shalt be no more: though thou be sought for, yet shalt thou never be found again, saith the Lord God. (Ezekiel 26:21). All travelers tell of the complete destruction of old Tire. New Tire is represented by a miserable village: an earthquake has shattered the larger houses, and they are now deserted. Its name is now Sur or Soor.
Zabulon
Matt. 4:13, 1513And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim: (Matthew 4:13)
15The land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephthalim, by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles; (Matthew 4:15).-The portion of the land given to the tribe of Zebulon. It extended from the shore of the Lake of Gennesaret nearly to the Mediterranean. It is associated with Nephthalim, which joined it on the north (both being in Galilee), as seeing a great light, fulfilled by the Lord dwelling in the neighborhood, visiting their synagogues, working miracles, and teaching the people.