Topical Encyclopedia The term "Syro-Phoenician" is used in the New Testament to describe a woman of mixed Syrian and Phoenician descent. This designation is found in the Gospel of Mark, where it refers to a Gentile woman who approached Jesus for the healing of her demon-possessed daughter. The account is significant for its demonstration of Jesus' ministry extending beyond the Jewish people to include Gentiles.Biblical Account The primary reference to the Syro-Phoenician woman is found in Mark 7:24-30. In this passage, Jesus travels to the region of Tyre and Sidon, which is located in modern-day Lebanon. Here, a woman whose daughter is possessed by an unclean spirit comes to Jesus, seeking His help. Mark 7:26 states, "The woman was a Greek, born in Syrian Phoenicia. And she kept asking Jesus to drive the demon out of her daughter." The term "Syro-Phoenician" highlights her cultural and ethnic background, indicating that she was a Gentile, not a Jew. This is further emphasized by the Gospel of Matthew, which refers to her as a "Canaanite woman" (Matthew 15:22), underscoring her non-Jewish heritage. Interaction with Jesus The interaction between Jesus and the Syro-Phoenician woman is notable for its depth and theological implications. Initially, Jesus responds to her request with a statement that seems to reflect the prevailing Jewish view of Gentiles: "Let the children be satisfied first, for it is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs" (Mark 7:27). Here, "children" refers to the Israelites, while "dogs" was a common term used by Jews to describe Gentiles. However, the woman's response is both humble and persistent: "Yes, Lord," she replied, "even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs" (Mark 7:28). Her faith and understanding of Jesus' mission are evident in her reply, which acknowledges the priority of Israel in God's plan while also expressing hope in the abundance of God's mercy. Jesus' Response and Healing Impressed by her faith, Jesus grants her request, saying, "For such a reply, you may go; the demon has left your daughter" (Mark 7:29). The woman's daughter is healed at that very moment, demonstrating the power of faith and the inclusivity of Jesus' ministry. Theological Significance The account of the Syro-Phoenician woman is significant for several reasons. It illustrates the breaking down of ethnic and cultural barriers in the ministry of Jesus, highlighting the universal scope of the Gospel. The woman's faith serves as a model for all believers, showing that persistence and humility in seeking Jesus can lead to divine intervention and blessing. Furthermore, this encounter foreshadows the later mission of the apostles to the Gentiles, as seen in the Book of Acts. It underscores the theme that salvation through Jesus Christ is available to all people, regardless of their ethnic or cultural background, fulfilling the promise that "all nations will be blessed" through Abraham's seed (Genesis 22:18). Cultural and Historical Context The region of Syro-Phoenicia was part of the larger area known as Phoenicia, famous for its seafaring and trade. The Phoenicians were known for their cities, such as Tyre and Sidon, which were centers of commerce and culture. The term "Syro-Phoenician" reflects the Hellenistic influence in the region following the conquests of Alexander the Great, which led to a blending of Greek and local cultures. In the context of the New Testament, the Syro-Phoenician woman's account serves as a reminder of the diverse cultural landscape of the ancient Near East and the far-reaching impact of Jesus' ministry. Greek 4949. Surophoinikissa -- a Syrophoenician (woman) ... Feminine of a compound of Suros and the same as Phoinike; a Syro-phoenician woman, ie A female native of Phoenicia in Syria -- Syrophenician. see GREEK Suros. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4949.htm - 6k Library "Nothing is Impossible to Industry, "Said one of the Seven Sages ... Prayer and Importunity Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners. Never a Man Like Him Ahaziah The Evening Light Christ's Own Testimony Concerning Himself. Children and Little Dogs Healing a Phoenician Woman's Daughter. Mother's Love Thesaurus Syrophenician (1 Occurrence)... Easton's Bible Dictionary "a Greek, a Syrophenician by nation" (Mark 7:26), ie, a Gentile born in the Phoenician part of Syria. ...Syrophenician (1 Occurrence). ... /s/syrophenician.htm - 7k Syro-phenician (1 Occurrence) Syrophoenician (1 Occurrence) Nation (192 Occurrences) Besought (57 Occurrences) Asking (111 Occurrences) Syrian (12 Occurrences) Syrophoeni'cian (1 Occurrence) Devil (58 Occurrences) Syrians (63 Occurrences) Resources Why, when, and for how long was the apostle Paul in Arabia? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz? | GotQuestions.org What is the significance of Jesus eating with sinners? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Syro-phenician (1 Occurrence)Mark 7:26 Subtopics Related Terms |