Topical Encyclopedia Arpad, a significant city in ancient Syria, is frequently mentioned in the Bible as a fortified city of considerable importance. It is often associated with military strength and strategic value, particularly during the period of the Assyrian Empire. The city is mentioned alongside Hamath, another prominent Syrian city, indicating its prominence in the region.Biblical References: Arpad is referenced in several passages of the Old Testament, highlighting its role in the geopolitical landscape of the ancient Near East. In 2 Kings 18:34, during the reign of King Hezekiah of Judah, the Assyrian king Sennacherib boasts of his conquests, questioning, "Where are the gods of Hamath and Arpad? Where are the gods of Sepharvaim, Hena, and Ivvah? Have they rescued Samaria from my hand?" . This rhetorical question underscores Arpad's significance as a city whose gods were unable to withstand the might of Assyria, thus serving as a warning to Jerusalem. Similarly, in Isaiah 10:9, the prophet Isaiah records the words of the Assyrian king, "Is not Calno like Carchemish? Is not Hamath like Arpad? Is not Samaria like Damascus?" . Here, Arpad is listed among other notable cities, emphasizing its stature and the Assyrian king's confidence in his ability to conquer these strongholds. Jeremiah 49:23 also mentions Arpad in the context of a prophecy against Damascus: "Concerning Damascus: Hamath and Arpad are put to shame, for they have heard bad news; they are disheartened, troubled like the restless sea" . This passage reflects the city's vulnerability and the impending judgment upon it, as part of the broader divine pronouncements against the nations. Historical and Geographical Context: Arpad is believed to have been located in northern Syria, possibly near the modern-day city of Aleppo. Its strategic position made it a target for various empires seeking to control the region. The city's fortifications and defenses were notable, contributing to its reputation as a formidable stronghold. There is some scholarly debate regarding the identification of Arpad with Arvad, an island city off the coast of Syria. While both cities share similar names and are mentioned in similar contexts, the evidence for their identification as the same location is not conclusive. Arvad, known for its maritime prowess, is mentioned separately in the Bible, particularly in Ezekiel 27:8, where it is described as providing skilled mariners for Tyre. Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, the references to Arpad in the Bible serve as a reminder of the futility of relying on human strength and fortifications in the face of divine judgment. The city's inability to withstand the Assyrian onslaught, despite its defenses, illustrates the sovereignty of God over the nations and the ultimate futility of idolatry and false security. The biblical narrative uses Arpad as an example of the broader theme of God's control over history and the rise and fall of empires. The city's fate is a testament to the prophetic warnings delivered by God's messengers, emphasizing the need for faithfulness and reliance on the true God rather than on military might or alliances with powerful nations. Nave's Topical Index 2 Kings 18:34Where are the gods of Hamath, and of Arpad? where are the gods of Sepharvaim, Hena, and Ivah? have they delivered Samaria out of my hand? Nave's Topical Index 2 Kings 19:13 Library The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria Sennacherib (705-681 BC ) The Last Days of the Old Eastern World Resources Who was Sennacherib in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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