Topical Encyclopedia Numenius is a figure mentioned in the context of Jewish history during the intertestamental period, specifically in the books of the Maccabees, which are part of the Apocrypha. Although not included in the canonical texts of the Protestant Bible, these books provide historical insights into the Jewish struggle for independence and religious freedom during the second century BCE.Historical Context Numenius is primarily known from the First and Second Books of Maccabees, which detail the Jewish revolt against the Seleucid Empire and the subsequent establishment of the Hasmonean dynasty. This period was marked by significant conflict and efforts to preserve Jewish religious practices against Hellenistic influences. Role and Contributions Numenius is identified as a Jewish envoy who played a crucial role in diplomatic missions. In 1 Maccabees 12:16, he is mentioned as one of the ambassadors sent by Jonathan, the leader of the Jewish people, to renew alliances with the Romans and Spartans. The text states: "So we have chosen Numenius son of Antiochus and Antipater son of Jason and sent them to Rome to renew our former friendship and alliance with them" (1 Maccabees 12:16). His mission was part of a broader strategy to secure political and military support for the Jewish nation, which was under constant threat from surrounding powers. The alliance with Rome, in particular, was seen as a means to counterbalance the influence of the Seleucid Empire. Significance Numenius' diplomatic efforts highlight the importance of international relations in the survival and autonomy of the Jewish state during this tumultuous period. His role underscores the strategic alliances that the Jewish leaders sought to establish in order to protect their people and preserve their religious identity. The mention of Numenius in the Maccabean texts also reflects the broader theme of God's providence and guidance in the affairs of His chosen people. The successful diplomatic missions, including those undertaken by Numenius, can be seen as part of the divine plan to sustain the Jewish nation amidst external threats. Legacy While Numenius himself is not a central figure in biblical theology, his actions contributed to the historical narrative of Jewish resilience and faithfulness. His diplomatic missions are a testament to the complex interplay of faith, politics, and survival that characterized the intertestamental period. The alliances he helped forge would have lasting implications for the Jewish people, influencing their interactions with surrounding nations and empires. In summary, Numenius serves as an example of the critical role that diplomacy and international relations played in the preservation of the Jewish faith and identity during a time of great challenge and change. His efforts are a reminder of the importance of wise leadership and strategic alliances in the fulfillment of God's purposes for His people. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia NUMENIUSnu-me'-ni-us (Noumenios): The son of Antiochus, and Antipater were the two ambassadors whom Jonathan sent to the Romans, "to the Spartans, and to other places," after his victory in the plain of Hazor (Galilee) over the princes of Demetrius (1 Maccabees 12:1;) about 144 B.C. Their mission was to confirm and renew the friendship and treaty which had existed from the days of Judas (1 Maccabees 8:17;). They were well received and successful, both at Rome (1 Maccabees 12:3) and at Sparta (1 Maccabees 12:19;; 14:22). After the death of Jonathan, the victories of Simon and the establishment of peace, Simon sent Numenius on a second embassy to Rome (1 Maccabees 14:24), again to confirm the treaty and present a golden shield weighing 1,000 minae-apparently just before the popular decree by which Simon was created high priest, leader and captain "for ever" (1 Maccabees 14:27;), September, 141 B.C. The embassy returned in 139 B.C., bearing letters from the senate to the kings of Egypt, Syria and "all the countries," confirming the integrity of Jewish territory, and forbidding these kings to disturb the Jews, and requiring them also to surrender any deserters (1 Maccabees 14:15;). See also LUCIUS; Schurer, Gesch. des judischen Volkes (3rd and 4th editions), I, 236, 250 f. Library How Much More Impartial than Celsus is Numenius the Pythagorean... But, Supposing that These Things do not at all Hinder or Prevent ... Celsus Appears to Me to have Heard that There are Treatises in ... Circumstances Related of Origen. Origen Against Celsus On the Greek Translation of the Old Testament. Now, that Miraculous Appearances have Sometimes Been Witnessed by ... I Wish, However, to Show How Celsus Asserts Without any Good ... The Jews Become Confederates with Caesar when He Fought against ... Letter Lxx. To Magnus an Orator of Rome. Thesaurus Numenius... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia NUMENIUS. nu-me'-ni-us (Noumenios): The son of Antiochus, and Antipater were the two ambassadors ... /n/numenius.htm - 7k Numerical Jambres (2 Occurrences) Jannes (2 Occurrences) Antiochus Numbers (136 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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