Ruins of ancient biblical cities. US archaeologists announced the discovery of the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. No, this is not an earthquake

A group of archaeologists at Trinity Southwestern University (New Mexico) announced the discovery of the ruins of the ancient biblical cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, which were destroyed by the will of the Almighty for their sins.

The head of the research project, Professor Steve Collins, said that this conclusion was made after serious research carried out over 10 years at the excavation site in Tell el-Hammam.

According to Collins, the ruins of an ancient Bronze Age complex found by archaeologists belong to a large city-state that was unknown to scientists before the start of the project he led.

"The archaeological team has discovered a real 'gold mine' of ancient monumental structures and artifacts," - quoted him by Christian Today.

According to Collins, a comparison of the discovered ruins with the remains of other ancient cities located nearby allows us to speak about the maximum coincidence according to a number of criteria known about Sodom from the text of the Bible.

The land of five cities

According to the Old Testament, at the time of Abraham, Sodom was a flourishing and rich city, but since the inhabitants "were wicked and very sinful" (Genesis, chapter 13, verse 13), then "the Lord rained sulfur and fire from the Lord on Sodom and Gomorrah. from heaven and overthrew these cities, and all this region, and all the inhabitants of these cities, and [all] the growth of the earth "(Genesis, chapter 19, verses 24-25).

The Bible tells about the death of not two, but four of the five cities located in the Dead Sea region at the end of the 18th century BC. The five city-states of Sodom, Gomorrah, Adma, Sevoim and Bela (Sigor) formed a coalition that was ruled by the union of four kings of Mesopotamia, who severely punished their vassals for non-payment of tribute.

The Torah says that the sin of Sodom and Gomorrah was that they starved their beggars, performed unrighteous judgment and refused hospitality to travelers.

The prophet Ezekiel says about this: "This was the iniquity of Sodom, your sister and her daughters: in pride, satiety and idleness, and she did not support the hands of the poor and the beggar ..." (Book of the prophet Ezekiel, chapter 16, verse 49).

The Bible says that the wrath of the Lord was caused by the sins of the inhabitants of these cities. God announced to Abraham that Sodom would be destroyed, but after Abraham's prayer, the Lord promised not to destroy the cities if ten righteous ones were found in them. The righteous were not found, and after the rescue of the angels, the families of the righteous Lot and the family of the city were destroyed by fire from heaven.

The expression "sodom" ("sodom and gomorrah") today allegorically means a place of debauchery where the moral foundations of society are violated. In modern Russian colloquial language, noise and turmoil are also called sodom, the Rublev.ru portal reminds.

The search for the biblical "city of sin"

According to the Bible, the place where Sodom, Gomorrah and other three cities were once located looked like the Garden of Eden. This information aroused skepticism among scientists who knew about the lifeless lands adjacent to the Dead Sea, and that Mesopotamia and the Jordan Valley had no means of communication.

In the early 1920s, renowned archaeologist Nelson Gluck discovered traces of an ancient road linking Mesopotamia and the Dead Sea. Then a mention of this road was found in the texts of clay tablets from Mari.

For the first time, the assumption about the location of the biblical Sodom was made after the discovery of an ancient cemetery in the town of Bab ed-Dhra, consisting of half a million graves. This find, made by archaeologists in 1960 south of Bab edh-Dhra, led to the conclusion that a city with a highly developed culture is located nearby.

Three million pottery shards of ancient dishes found in the area with the remains of wheat, rye, dates, plums, peaches, grapes, figs, pistachios, almonds, olives and other fruits made it possible to determine that in the Bronze Age there was a real Garden of Eden in these places.

Another proof that the discovered cities are the very ones that the Bible speaks of, the researchers saw in the medieval mosaic discovered in 1896 during the construction on the ruins of the old Byzantine church of the Greek Orthodox monastery of St. George, located in the city of Madaba in Jordan.

The mosaic, known as the Map of Madaba, is a gigantic 93-square-meter map of the Holy Land lined with millions of colored stones. The fourth part of this mosaic has survived to this day, but among other things it also depicts a certain city, under which there is a signature: "Bela, she is Sigor". The location of Bela on the map exactly coincides with Safi - one of the five dead cities discovered in the Dead Sea region.

The hypothesis that Sodom and Gomorrah existed not on the western (Israeli), but on the eastern (Jordanian) coast of the Dead Sea was put forward by American scientists in the 90s of the XX century.

According to the hypothesis accepted by most researchers, the biblical Sodom was located on the southwestern coast of the Dead Sea.

Research in recent decades

During 1965-1967 and 1973-1979, five expeditions were carried out, but Sodom was never discovered.

In 2000, members of a British archaeological expedition led by Michael Sanders suggested that they were able to determine the most accurate coordinates of the ruins of Sodom at the bottom of the Dead Sea. The search was carried out in the northeastern water area. This completely refuted the biblical theory that Sodom was located at the southern end of the Dead Sea. The discovery of British scientists was based on photographs of the American aerospace agency NASA, which recorded anomalies at the bottom of the Dead Sea off the coast of Jordan.

In December 2010, the Russian company received permission from the Hashemite Kingdom to conduct exploration work in the area identified as the alleged location of Sodom and Gomorrah. It was located in the vicinity of the ancient city of Bab edh-Dhra, where, according to a NASA photograph, the ruins of cities could be concentrated. After that, in 2012, a joint Russian-Jordanian archaeological expedition was organized. The Russian company was selected for the project due to the resistance of its deepwater equipment to the extremely salty water of the Dead Sea.

Scientists at different times put forward different versions of the reasons for the death of cities - from an earthquake to the fall of a large meteorite.

CITY OF SIN
"And the Lord rained down on Sodom and Gomorrah sulfur and fire from the Lord from heaven, and overthrew these cities, and all this neighborhood, and all the inhabitants of these cities ... And [Abraham] looked to Sodom and Gomorrah and all the area around and saw: behold, smoke rises from the ground, like smoke from a furnace "
These lines from the Bible (Gen. 19) have haunted inquiring minds for several thousand years. Deeply believers, everything is clear: God destroyed the disgusting local sinners of non-traditional sexual orientation - "who committed fornication and walked after another flesh" (Jude 1: 7). And where did he get the sulfur and fire - it doesn't matter. Spilled it somehow. "Is there anything difficult for the Lord?" (Gen. 18), - he himself said, however, on a different occasion.
Nevertheless, many are wondering if the cities mentioned in the Bible really existed - Sodom and Gomorrah, inhabited by homosexuals?
Steven Collins, an archaeologist at Trinity Southwestern University in New Mexico, believes that at least there is no doubt about the existence of Sodom. The scientist is sure that he found this legendary city.
HERE LIKE ON THE MOON
The Bible very roughly indicates the place and time of the Lord's reprisal against homosexuals. But we can confidently say that it happened in the vicinity of the present Dead Sea, called "Salt Lake" around the 3rd millennium BC. And after the righteous came here - Abraham with his nephew Lot. They came with their families. And they settled in a very fertile region, which was "watered with water, like the garden of the Lord, like the land of Egypt."
The biblical tradition is also confirmed by ancient historians, who seem to have personally visited the scene. Even after 3 thousand years.
- The Sodomite region adjacent to the lake was once a blessed country in its fertility and was decorated with many cities, but now it is completely burned out, - writes Josephus Flavius, famous for his testimonies of the existence of Jesus Christ. - They say that for the wickedness of its inhabitants, it was destroyed by lightning. Even to this day, some remnants of the heavenly fire and traces of the five cities can be seen; ash appears in the very fruits; in appearance and color, they seem to be real fruits, but as soon as you crush them with your hand, they turn into dust and ash.

Flavius is echoed by Tacitus, also remembering the "scorched earth".
Now, after another 2 thousand years, the former likeness of the garden of the Lord still resembles a lifeless lunar landscape.
YES THIS IS HE - SODOM
Archaeologists did not have a consensus about where exactly Sodom was. Periodically, since the 1920s, they have unearthed hopeful ruins, scorched by fires. Found ruins even at the bottom of the Dead Sea, examining it on submarines. But are they the same ?. Indeed, together with the cities that became symbols of debauchery, the Lord thoroughly burned two more - Adma and Sevoim.
Stephen Collins dug in the Tal el Hamman area, which looked like the terrain described in the Bible. He dug up walls 10 meters high and 5 meters thick, inside them are the ruins of numerous buildings. That is, I discovered a very large and solid city, which, in fact, was Sodom during its heyday.

Dishes, weapons, tools, jewelry and other artifacts found by archaeologists confirmed that the townspeople - sodomites - actively traded. And they did not live in poverty.
Strabo, the author of the famous ancient "Geography", also wrote about Sodom, as a great lost city:
- In favor of the fact that this land is saturated with fire ... show steep scorched rocks and in many places crevasses and ash-like soil, rivers that spread a stench, and everywhere in the vicinity of the ruins of human dwellings. Therefore, one has to believe the legends, very widespread among local residents, that there were once thirteen inhabited cities here, of which the main city - Sodom - had about 60 stadia in a circle ...
Established: The ruins of the city excavated by Collins date back to around the 35th century BC. Life in it lasted for about 700 years, and then suddenly stopped.
But if Sodom really existed, how and from what did he die? Surprisingly, this puzzle was solved 7 years ago.

THE WRATH OF THE LORD
No, this is not an earthquake
The not too religious Strabo was the first to suggest that the nest of depravity was destroyed not by God, but by the riot of the bowels. He wrote that "from earthquakes, eruptions of fire and hot asphalt and sulphurous waters ... fire engulfed the rocks."
In 2001, the hypothesis of the ancient historian was allegedly confirmed by the British geologist and archaeologist Dr. Gray Harris. He pointed out that in the Dead Sea area there are deposits of asphalt, tar and underground pockets filled with methane. Like, the earthquake provoked the release of both. From which, in fact, the all-devouring fire arose.
It seems logical. If not for one big problem. The Bible, which, as we found out, can be trusted, says that "fire from the Lord" was from heaven. That is, from above, not from below.
Another witness to the biblical catastrophe
At the end of March 2008, rocket engine specialist Alan Bond and Mark Hempsell, who lecture on astronautics at the University of Bristol (UK), published a book in which they unambiguously linked the death of Sodom and Gomorrah to the sky. Specifically, with an asteroid that fell from there. Moreover, scientists argue that they did not come up with this themselves. And they deciphered the cuneiform script on an ancient clay tablet. This artifact, known as the Planisphere, is housed in the British Museum under number K8538.

The tablet was found by archaeologist Henry Layard in the middle of the 19th century in the ruins of the library of the royal palace in Nineveh - the ancient capital of the Assyrian state. Since then, numerous researchers have struggled unsuccessfully to decipher it.
Having finally found the right key, Hempsell and Bond came to the conclusion: the testimony of a person who witnessed perhaps the largest disaster in the history of the Earth was recorded in cuneiform. Although the "Planisphere" itself is not his doing - it is just an exact copy of the detailed observations of a certain Sumerian astronomer.
SCARY MORNING JUNE 29
Scientists have read about the "approaching ball of fire", which "rushes rapidly" across the firmament. Found a description of its trajectory and how the constellations were located.
The decrypted data was processed by a computer program that allows you to recreate pictures of the starry sky thousands of years ago. And it turned out: the asteroid fell in the predawn hours on June 29, 3123 BC.
- The diameter of the celestial body ranged from 800 meters to one and a half kilometers, - says Hempsell. - The main blow fell on the Tyrol region of the present Austrian Alps. Then the following happened: either the red-hot debris of the exploded asteroid rushed along the course, burning and destroying everything in its path up to the "land of Jordan". Either a mushroom cloud arose, as from a nuclear explosion, which, curving up, re-entered the atmosphere in the Dead Sea region. Cloud temperatures are over 400 degrees. It was enough to incinerate the biblical cities located there. Including Sodom and Gomorrah.
Fireball with a diameter of 5 kilometers
In the Alps, in the Tyrolean town of Köfels, there is indeed a very strange landscape that has long puzzled geologists: as if something had blown up a mountain.
- An asteroid and demolished, - British researchers assure. “But he didn't leave a crater. Because it hit the Earth at a very sharp angle - about 6 degrees. Almost tangentially. And it exploded in the air, forming a fireball with a diameter of almost 5 kilometers. He, like a cumulative projectile, scattered a five-kilometer mountain into dust. And devastated on its way about a million square kilometers.
- By the way, - says Hempsell, - the catastrophic events associated with the fall of the asteroid are noted not only in the Bible, but also in many ancient myths. For example, in the most known - about Phaethon, who could not cope with the fiery chariot of his dad Helios and fell from the sky.
Or maybe aliens detonated an atomic bomb?
Ufologists, of course, are also looking for those responsible for the biblical massacre. And they suspect that the mysterious men, called angels, who visited both Abraham and Lot before the catastrophe, were in fact aliens. Since they had supernatural powers: they appeared as if from nowhere, deprived the inhabitants of Sodom of sight. And they knew for sure that the city would be destroyed - they literally brought Lot and his family out of it.

Ufologists in their own way understand the words from the Bible - "The sun rose over the earth." Like, it didn't dawn, but there was a flash from a nuclear explosion. And on the clay tablet - "Planisphere" - they see not an asteroid, but a spaceship.
And how to understand the strange act of Lot, who first took refuge in the surviving city of Sigor, and then went to live in a cave with his two daughters? His wife, as you know, turned into a pillar of salt - did not obey the "aliens" who were forbidden to look back at the explosion.
The Bible says: "... for he was afraid to live in Seagora." And again: "... God ... sent Lot out of the environment of destruction."
According to ufologists, the cause was deadly radiation. Naturally, its traces have disappeared in more than five thousand years. But here and there a melted rock comes across, vaguely similar to the one found on the ruins of the ancient Indian city of Mohenjo-Daro. According to legend, it was destroyed "by a powerful single projectile charged with all the power of the Universe. A sparkling column of smoke and fire burst out like ten thousand suns ... The dead people were impossible to recognize, and the survivors did not live long: their hair, teeth and nails fell out." Sounds like Hiroshima, doesn't it?

Another question is why the aliens bombed Sodom and Gomorrah? Is it because of the local gays? The clearly non-symmetrical "answer" casts doubt on the extraterrestrial version.
TOTAL
In my personal opinion, a hypothesis that unites all available at once looks much more reasonable and humane. Yes, there were aliens - they looked after the earthlings. They knew that an asteroid would fall. And they saved the Lot they liked with something. There was also a terrible blow in the Alps. An earthquake happened from him. Or something like that, which entailed emissions of combustible materials - methane, resin and, most importantly, native sulfur - with it, as the historian Pliny wrote, the vicinity of the Dead Sea was rich in it: "... consisted of such a combustible substance that it could be ignited even with a smut ..."
Or is it worth it to unquestioningly believe the Bible?
Debriefing
Perverts - from young to old
The Bible (Genesis) does not directly accuse the inhabitants of Sodom and Gomorrah of homosexuality. But from the narrative it is quite possible to draw such an unequivocal conclusion. At least with regard to the Sodomites.
The same men, angels of human appearance, who saved Lot, spent the night with him the night before. And then "... they have not yet gone to bed, like city dwellers, Sodomlyans, from young to old, all the people ... surrounded the house." They demanded that the aliens be brought to them, saying "we will get to know them."
By "know" the perverts did not mean acquaintance at all. The meaning of this word is revealed by Lot, offering the townspeople a replacement: "... Here I have two daughters who did not know her husband; I'd better bring them out to you, do with him what you want, just don't do anything to this people ..."
However, the Sodomites were pleased to know all the same the aliens. Which leaves no doubt about their inclinations: only inveterate homosexuals will indignantly refuse women.
In short, the men were saved from rape by "blinding" the attackers who were about to break down the door. Because of this, they did not find her: "they were exhausted, looking for an entrance."
Conclusion: the people of Sodom were really not averse to going "for another flesh." Q.E.D.
It is strange, however: the Lord fatally punished homosexuals, and another perversion - incest, which now looks much more vile in the eyes of the public, did not even condemn. After all, as you know from the same Genesis (19: 31-38), Lot's daughters, after the disaster, settled with him in a cave, gave dad to drink. They took turns having sex with him - drunk - and became pregnant one after another.
However, other men were inaccessible to their daughters - God destroyed them. Was this an excuse? Or was incest not considered a sin at all in those days? Mystery…

The head of the research project, Professor Steve Collins, said that this conclusion was made after serious research carried out over 10 years at the excavation site in Tell el-Hammam.

According to Collins, the ruins of an ancient Bronze Age complex found by archaeologists belong to a large city-state that was unknown to scientists before the start of the project he led.

"The archaeological team has discovered a real 'gold mine' of ancient monumental structures and artifacts," - quoted him by Christian Today.

The land of five cities

According to the Old Testament, during the time of Abraham Sodom was a flourishing and rich city, but since the inhabitants "were wicked and very sinful" (Genesis, chapter 13, verse 13), "the Lord rained sulfur and fire from the Lord on Sodom and Gomorrah. from heaven and overthrew these cities, and all this neighborhood, and all the inhabitants of these cities, and [all] the growth of the earth "(Genesis, chapter 19, verses 24-25).

The Torah says that the sin of Sodom and Gomorrah was that they starved their beggars, performed unrighteous judgment and refused hospitality to travelers.

The prophet Ezekiel says the same: "This was the iniquity of Sodom, your sister and her daughters: in pride, satiety and idleness, and she did not support the hands of the poor and the beggar ..." (Book of the prophet Ezekiel, chapter 16, verse 49).

The search for the biblical "city of sin"

The hypothesis that Sodom and Gomorrah existed not on the western (Israeli), but on the eastern (Jordanian) coast of the Dead Sea was put forward by American scientists in the 90s of the XX century.

According to the hypothesis accepted by most researchers, the biblical Sodom was located on the southwestern coast of the Dead Sea.

Research in recent decades

During 1965-1967 and 1973-1979, five expeditions were carried out, but Sodom was never discovered.

In December 2010, the Russian company received permission from the Hashemite Kingdom to conduct exploration in the area identified as the alleged location of Sodom and Gomorrah. It was located in the vicinity of the ancient city of Bab edh-Dhra, where, according to a NASA photograph, the ruins of cities could be concentrated. After that, in 2012, a joint Russian-Jordanian archaeological expedition was organized. The Russian company was selected for the project due to the resistance of its deepwater equipment to the extremely salty water of the Dead Sea.

Scientists at different times put forward different versions of the reasons for the death of cities - from an earthquake to a fall

Concise dictionary-reference

Abba. One of the ancient cities, located not far from Babylon, means "devastation". Defeated by the Assyrians, who transported part of its population to Samaria, which they destroyed in 722 BC. Also referred to in the Bible as Yves(4 Kings 17:24, 18:34, 19:13). Having settled on the territory of the Kingdom of Israel, some of these people adopted the religion of the True God. But the majority still continued to worship false gods, the main of which were Nivkhaz and Tartak (4 Kings 17:31).

Avvim. From time immemorial, the city belonged to the Canaanite tribe of the Abveys (translated as "living in desert places"). Around the 15th century BC, these lands were invaded by the Philistine tribes, also called Caphtorites in the Bible after the island of Caphtor (Crete), their original homeland (Deuteronomy 2:23). After the capture of Palestine by the Israelites, under Joshua, the city fell to the tribe of Benjamin (Joshua 18:23).

Abel-Beth-Maach. One of the most powerful cities in ancient Israel, called in 2 Kings 20:19 "the mother of cities in Israel." After the division of the land under Joshua, the city ceded to the tribe of Naphtali, after which several times throughout its history it became the object of attack by enemy armies: so under Vaasa it was defeated by Ben-Hadad, king of Syria (3 Kings 15:20) and under Pekah - by Pheglafelassar , king of Assyria (4 Kings 15:29). The city played an important role in the internecine war that broke out during the reign of King David as a result of the uprising of a certain Savey. As a result of this, half of the kingdom broke away from David. But the quick and decisive actions of his commander Joab led, after a fierce war, to the defeat of the rebels - their remnants locked themselves up in Abel-Beth-Maach, led by Savei. It is difficult to say what would have happened to the city if one of its inhabitants had not persuaded her fellow countrymen to kill Savey and thus save the city from destruction (2 Kings, Chapter 20).

Avelmehola. One of the Canaanite cities, near which Gideon inflicted a crushing defeat on the Midianites with only three hundred soldiers (the book of Judges, chapter 7). The name of this city is also associated with the birth in it of one of the most famous prophets - Elisha (3 Kings 19:16).

Abel-Keraim. One of the Ammonite towns, near which the Israeli judge Jephthah inflicted a major defeat on the Ammonites. Its name Abel-Keraim, which means "the valley of the vineyards", received due to the huge amount of grapes grown here (Book of Judges 11:39).

Avets. One of the cities that belonged to the tribe of Issachar (Joshua 19:20).

Avif. One of the oldest capitals of the Edom kingdom, under its ruler Gadad, around the 19th-18th centuries. BC Subsequently, the capital was moved to Sela (Petra), and Avith became an ordinary city (Genesis 36:35).

Adami-Nekev. The city that fell after the partition of Palestine to the tribe of Naphtali (Joshua 19:33).

Adam. One of the ancient Canaanite cities, near which the Israelites, led by Joshua, miraculously crossed the Jordan around 1410 BC (Joshua 3:16). In translation it means "red earth".

Adoraim. An Israeli walled city, fortified under King Rehoboam the First (II Chronicles 11: 9). After the defeat of the Kingdom of Judah, in 586 he went to Edom. During the Maccabean War in the Second century BC, near the city, hostilities took place between the Jews and the Syrian troops under the command of the military leader Tryphon. In those days, the city bore the name Adora... Nowadays, in its place is the town of Dura.

Adifaim. The city that ceded to the tribe of Judah during the partition of Palestine in the XIV century BC. In translation it means "double decoration".

Adramith. Ancient Greek city located in the province of Misia, in Asia Minor. It was famous as one of the best port cities of antiquity. On one of his ships, the apostle Paul, already a Roman prisoner, sailed to Rome to be judged by the emperor (Acts 27: 2). The city still exists today, but it has lost its former significance.

Endor. An ancient Canaanite city that has existed until our time and is shrouded in all kinds of legends. Under Joshua, the city, although geographically belonged to the tribe of Issachar, was given to the tribe of Manasseh during the partition. The Jews were supposed to expel the Canaanites from the city, completely subjugating it to their power, however, due to the indecision of the Jews, the Canaanites remained to live there, although they were then forced to recognize the supreme power of the Israelites (Joshua 17: 11-13). Several decades later, the Canaanite king Jabin was defeated near the city by Judges Barak and Deborah (Prince of Judges, chapter 4). But the events that played out in it at the end of the reign of Saul brought the city the most famous. The latter, retreating in his life farther and farther from the Lord, turned from a wise and great king dedicated to God into a pitiful and lonely man and, finally, reached the point where he turned for help to a witch, a henchman of the evil one. Saul, having come to her, asks to call the spirit of Samuel, in the image of which a demon appears before him (1 Kings, chapter 28). It was one of the oldest spiritualistic seances recorded in history. But, as in ancient times, so today people who want to meet with their deceased loved ones do not come into contact with them, because after death, as the Bible says, “the dead know nothing, and there is no longer any reward for them, because their memory is consigned to oblivion; and their love, and their hatred and their jealousy have already disappeared, and they no longer have a part for ever in anything that is done under the sun ... because in the grave where you go there is no work, no thought, no knowledge, no wisdom "(Ecclesiastes 9: 5-6, 10). "His spirit goes out, and he returns to his land; on that day all his thoughts disappear" (Psalm 145: 4). As in the case of Saul, evil spirits appear before people, who in their time led to the death of Saul, dreaming to do the same with us. This ominous cave is still preserved in the town, serving as a formidable warning to people.

Nitrogen. One of the largest, along with Ascalon, Gaza, Gath, Akkaron, Philistine cities, called royal (they were founded by the Philistines in the XV-XIV century BC). With the partition of Palestine, the city went to the tribe of Judah, which was to subordinate it to its authority. But the apostasy of the Israelites from God after the death of Joshua affected the weakening of the military power of Israel, and the plans to conquer the Philistine cities did not come true. For many decades, Azot became one of the outposts of pagan aggression against the Jewish state. During one of the wars, the Philistines, defeating the Jews, captured God's ark and, as a sign of their victory, placed it in the temple of the god Dagon in Azot. But the True God did not allow the ark to remain in the hands of the Gentiles. The judgments of God, sent to Azot, forced the priesthood and the inhabitants of Azot to abandon the possession of the ark, which was so flattering for them, and ceded it to the city of Gath (1 Kings 5: 1-8). By the 8th century BC Azot was losing its former power, which the Jews did not fail to take advantage of during the reign of King Uzziah (787-735). The war he started against the Philistines ended in their complete defeat and destruction of Gath and Azot (II Chronicles 26: 6). Near Azot, Uzziah erects several fortresses, which were supposed to hold back the possible aggression of the Philistines. Thanks to the subsequent weakening of the Kingdom of Judah. Nitrogen is rebuilt again, but not for long. During the reign of the Assyrian king Sargon (722-705), nitrogen is sieged and destroyed (Isaiah 20: 1). It seemed that the city had ceased to exist forever, but God's prophecies speak of something else:

1. The Philistines will be destroyed in Azot, but the city will remain (Amos 1: 8).

2. Another people will live in Azot (Zechariah 9: 6).

3. Its lands will go to the Jews (Zephaniah 2: 7).

History has fully confirmed these prophecies. Nitrogen has survived to our time, despite its turbulent history and numerous destructions, and is now in the state of Israel, bearing the name of Ezdud. Translated "Nitrogen" means "fortified place".

Aialon. An ancient Canaanite settlement, known for the fact that around 1400 BC Joshua won a brilliant victory over a coalition of Canaanite kings near it. During this battle, in response to the prayer of Nun, God performed a miracle, extending the day by 23 hours and 20 minutes. Disproved by atheists for many centuries, this miracle is now fully confirmed by history and astronomy (Joshua 10:12). During the reign of Ahaz, the settlement was taken by the Philistines. Translated "Aialon" means "the valley of the gazelles".

Aialon. (2) The town of the same name, located in the tribe of Zebulun, is mentioned in the Bible in the book. Judges 12:12 in connection with the burial of Judge Elon in it.

Ain. The ancient city, located near Hebron, during the partition of Palestine went to the tribe of Judah, then it was transferred to the tribe of Simeon and the Levites (Joshua 15:32). Translated means "source".

Akkaron. One of the royal Philistine cities. For many centuries he was an enemy of the kingdom of Israel, mentioned in the annals of David, Ahaziah, Uzziah and Josiah. The destruction of the city was predicted by the prophet Amos 1: 8 and the prophet Zephaniah 2: 4. These prophecies have found their exact fulfillment in history. Archaeologists have discovered near the village of Akir the remains of houses and temples of the city, testifying to its former greatness. In translation "Akkaron" means "eradication".

Temple of the goddess Hathor in Dendera (partial reconstruction).

The construction was completed in the 1st century AD. NS.

Acre... Synonym - Ptolomaida.

Alexandria. One of the largest cities in the ancient world, founded by Alexander the Great in 332 BC, on the spit between Lake Mareotis and the Mediterranean Sea. For more than two centuries, Alexandria was the capital of the Hellenistic state of the Ptolemaic-Lagids, formed after the collapse of the empire of Alexander the Great.

The rulers of this kingdom were:

1. Ptolemy the First "Laga" (304-283)

2. Ptolemy II "Philadelphus" (283-247)

3. Ptolemy the Third "Everget" (247-221)

4. Ptolemy the Fourth "Philopatra" (221-205)

5. Ptolemy the Fifth "Epiphanes" (205-181)

6. Ptolemy the Sixth (181-145)

7. Ptolemy the Seventh "Fat" (145-117)

8. Ptolemy the Eighth (117-107)

9. Alexander the First (117-88)

10. Cleopatra the First (117-88)

11. Ptolemy the Ninth "Lafour" (116-107)

12. Ptolemy the Tenth (107-101)

13. Ptolemy the Ninth "Lafour" (89-81)

14. Alexander II (81-80)

15. Ptolemy Eleventh "Avlet" (80-80)

16. Ptolemy the Twelfth "Dionysus" (80-52)

17. Cleopatra II (52-48)

18. Ptolemy the Thirteenth (52-47)

19. Ptolemy the Fourteenth (47-45)

20. Ptolemy the Fifteenth (45-30)

Under Ptolemy II, the Bible was translated into Greek. The fact is that, having learned about the greatness of the Bible, Ptolemy sent a letter to the Jerusalem high priest Eleazar, in which he asked to send translators who knew both Greek and Hebrew languages. The arriving translators in Alexandria were given a magnificent reception, after which they were taken to the palace on the island of Pharos, near Alexandria. There, each of them was allocated a separate room (there were 72 translators in total), where they independently began to translate the Pentateuch of Moses. After finishing the work, Ptolemy, comparing their translations, was surprised to see that they were completely identical. Indeed, the Bible is the only one among all the books in the world when translated into any language does not change the meaning. Later, the rest of the books of the Old Testament were also translated in Egypt. In general, this translation went down in history under the name of the Septuagint, that is, the translation of 70 interpreters. In a short time, Alexandria became a world political and cultural center. The city's library, consisting of 500 thousand volumes, was famous all over the world. It has not reached our time, part of it died in 47 BC during the siege of the city by Julius Caesar, the other part in 391 AD. The Lighthouse of Alexandria, located on the island of Pharos and included in the seven wonders of the ancient world. The population of the city in ancient times was close to a million. In Alexandria in the III-IV centuries. large religious figures of that time lived: Clement, Origen, Arius. From 30 BC to 395 the city was ruled by Rome, then Byzantium - until the 7th century. Then Muslim states were located on its territory: the Arab Caliphate, the Tulunid state (871-972), the Fatimid state (972-1171), the Eyyubid state (1171-1259), the Mamluk state (1259-1526), Turkey (1526-1805); then, to the present time, the city is part of the state of Egypt. In the Bible, we find twice the mention of Alexandria. For the first time in the book of Acts 18:24, where we find the news that Apollos, one of the most talented preachers of Christ's teaching, was from this city; the second - in the book. Acts 27: 6, which says that on the Alexandrian ship, the apostle Paul made his journey to Rome as a prisoner.

Amphipolis. Athenian colony at the mouth of the Strimon River in Macedonia. From the once large and fortified city, founded in the 6th century BC, there are ruins, near which there is a small town. In the Bible we meet with him in the book. Acts 17: 1, which indicates that the apostle Paul passed through this city spreading the message of Christ.

Anathoph. Nowadays it is the town of Anat. Located near Jerusalem, the city in ancient times belonged to the sons of Levi, who performed religious service. For wickedness, the city was subjected to God's judgments, proclaimed through the prophets Jeremiah 11: 19-22 and Isaiah 10:30 and exactly fulfilled in history. Instead of the once rich and influential city, today there is a small town. In the Bible, the city is mentioned in connection with the fact that it became the place of exile for the high priest Abiathar, overthrown by King Solomon, as well as the fact that the prophet Jeremiah was born in this city (Jeremiah 1: 1). In translation it means "answer to prayer".

Anaf. From the ancient history of the city, it is only known that around the 17th century BC the city was taken by the tribe of the clan of Anak (Joshua 11:21). Later, around 1410 BC, the city was taken by Joshua; when Palestine was partitioned, he went to the tribe of Judah (Joshua 15:50). In translation it means "place of grape berries".

Antipatriad. Founded on the site of the ancient settlement of Karf-Saba by Herod the Great (37-4). In the middle of the 1st century A.D., the apostle Paul was arrested in this city (Acts 23:31). The city was named after Herod's father Antipater.

Antioch of Syria. One of the richest and largest cities of the Ancient World, the former capital of the Seleucid state - Syria, formed as a result of the collapse of the empire of Alexander the Great. The city was founded by Seleucus the First, who named it after his father. After the conquest of the Seleucid kingdom by the Romans in 64 BC, the city retained its position. In 395, during the division of the Roman Empire, the city passed to Byzantium. Antioch has played an important role in the history of Christianity, being the seat of the Patriarch of Antioch and the site of many church councils. There was a theological school in it, called Antioch, which put in the first place the study of the Holy Scriptures, rejecting the then popular allegorical interpretations of it. In 538 AD, the city was destroyed by the Persian king of the Sassanid dynasty Chozroi I (529-579). After that, the city was rebuilt and destroyed several times, suffering numerous calamities (fires, epidemics). In 1098, as a result of the first crusade, the city was conquered by the crusaders and became the capital of the Antiochian principality.

The rulers of the Principality of Antioch:

1. Bohemond the First (1098-1111)

2. Tancred (1111-1112)

3. Roger (1112-1119)

4. Bohemond the Second (1119-1130)

5. Raymond the First (1130-1163)

6. Bohemond the Third (1163-1201)

7. Bohemond the Fourth (1201-1215)

8. Raymond II (1215-1220)

9. Bohemond the Fourth (1220-1233)

10. Bohemond the Fifth (1233-1252)

11. Bohemond the Sixth (1252-1275)

12. Bohemond the Seventh (1275-1287)

In 1268 the city was destroyed by Muslims. Now on the site of the city there is a small town of Antakia. For the followers of Jesus Christ, the city is significant in that it was in it that they "first began to be called Christians" (Acts 11:26).

Antioch of Pisidia. A city in Asia Minor, erected by Seleucus of Syria. The gospel message reached the city under the apostle Paul, who, together with Barnabas, brought it to the people (Acts 13: 16-41).

Apollonia. One of the Macedonian cities named after the ancient Greek god Apollo. The apostle Paul visited the city (Acts 17: 1 and 16: 12-15).

Arad. Ancient Canaanite city, which put up stubborn resistance to the troops of Joshua, who, having taken the city, subjected it to complete destruction (book. Numbers 21: 1-3 and book. Judges 1:16). Today, instead of the city, there is a hill called Tel Arad. It means "the place of wild donkeys".

Arvad. One of the Phoenician cities, erected on one of the islands in the Mediterranean. For several centuries it was one of the richest ports in the Mediterranean until it was destroyed by the Arabs during the Umayyad Dynasty (660-750), which ruled the Arab Caliphate. In translation it means "place of fugitives". The Bible is mentioned in the book. Ezekiel 27: 8-11.

Arpad. One of the cities of the Syrian Damascus kingdom, conquered by Sennacherib of Assyria (705-681), translated as "backwater".

Ar-Moab. The ancient capital of the Moabite kingdom, defeated by King Sigon of Amorite, then departed to the tribe of Reuben and destroyed in 342 AD during an earthquake (book Numbers 21:28).

Hazor. One of the capitals of numerous Canaanite kingdoms, destroyed in 1410 BC by Joshua. Several decades later, the Canaanites rebuilt the city, whose king Jabin conquered even the Israelite tribes and ruled them for twenty years. Soon thereafter, the city passed into the possession of the Israelites, who made it a wonderful fortress in the 10th century BC. The city was finally destroyed by the Assyrian king Tiglatpalassar, who razed the city to the ground and took its inhabitants captive. Thus, the prophecy of Jeremiah 49:33 came true, which spoke of the destruction of the city and its abandonment by the inhabitants. The Bible mentions Hazor in the book. Joshua 11: 1, 13; book Judges 4: 2-17 3 kn. Kings 9:15 4 kn. Kings 15:29. Translated means "castle".

Astarof. The capital of Og, King Bashan, who was defeated by the Israelites in the 15th century BC The location of the city is not known exactly. Mentioned in the book. Deuteronomy 1: 4; book Joshua 9:10; 1 book. Chronicles 11:44.

Ashterof Karnaim. An ancient city located between two hills, famous for its population, distinguished by unprecedented growth and physical strength. The Bible is mentioned in the book. Genesis 14: 5; book Joshua 12: 4. In translation - "the abode of the two-horned goddess" (goddess - that is, Astarte, who was revered in this city; two-horned - because of the two hills).

Athens. One of the oldest and most remarkable cities in the world; in ancient times it was called "the eye of Hellas". The city reached its highest development in the 5th century BC, when sciences, arts, crafts, trade flourished, and the Athenians had no equal either on land or at sea. It was a city of wondrous beauty; The ruins of the Acropolis, sculptures and the remains of columns that have survived today are surprising in their scope and grandeur. But the Peloponnesian war (431-404), the robbery of the city by the Roman dictator Sulla, repeated wars with the Turks, the subsequent "robberies" of the city by wealthy people who bought for a pittance and took to their homeland (America, Europe) the best works of art, turned Athens is an ordinary middle town in southern Europe. The apostle Paul was in Athens - in the book. Acts 17:15 read: "Those who accompanied Paul accompanied him to Athens ..."

In those days, Athens was rightfully considered the pagan capital of the world, as if taking the palm from Ancient Babylon: not only in the pagan center of the city of Acropolis, but on every square, street and street, at every intersection, and even near many houses - both poor and rich - one could see large and small sculptures and statues of pagan gods, of which there were a great many. Little wonder that “Paul was troubled in spirit at the sight of this city full of idols” (Acts 17:16). At that time, various schools of thought flourished in Athens, which had one thing in common: the glorification of human wisdom, wit and sharpness of language. “All the Athenians and the foreigners living with them did not spend their time more willingly than talking or listening to something new” (Acts 17:21). Therefore, it is not surprising that they did not perceive Paul's brilliant preaching about Jesus Christ, just as today people, being puffed up by the carnal mind, do not feel the need for the Savior of the world, and the Bible is considered, at best, a monument of Eastern literature, and at worst, a collection of fables.

Reconstruction

But God's blessings cannot be infinitely neglected, and everyone who makes brilliant plans for the future must ask himself whether its end will be similar to the ending of an ancient beautiful city: debris, ruins, disappointment, death. "But woe to the wicked: for there will be retribution for the works of his hands ... And the gates of the capital will sigh and weep, and she will sit on the ground desolate" (Isaiah 3:11; 25).

The history of the following cities is presented in only one or two sentences, and therefore only the translation of the name and the place of the Holy Scripture, which speaks of the city, are given here.

Beeshter. In translation - "house of Astarte", in the Bible it is mentioned in the book. Joshua 21:27; book Chronicles 6:71.

Bela. Translated - "extermination", mentioned in the book. Genesis 14: 2, 8 book Jeremiah 48:34.

Berof. Translated - "cypress". Mentioned in 2 vols. Kings 8: 8; book Ezekiel 47:16.

Bet Arbel. In translation - "ambush place". Mentioned in the book. Hosea 10:14.

Bet Gamul. In translation - "camel's house". Mentioned in the book. Jeremiah 48:23.

Bet Divlafaim. In translation - "house of two horns". Mentioned in the book. Jeremiah 48:22.

Beth Anaf. In translation - "house of the answer". Mentioned in the book. Joshua 19:38; book Judges 1:33.

Beth Arawa. In translation - "house of the desert". Mentioned in the book. Joshua 15: 6; 18:22.

Beth-Birei. In translation - "house of creation". Mentioned in 1 book. Chronicles 4:31.

Beth-Baal-Meon. In translation - "dwelling of Baal". Mentioned in the book. Joshua 13:17; book Jeremiah 48:23.

Befwara. In translation - "place of crossing". Mentioned in the book. Judges 7:24; John 1:28.

Befgader. In translation - "house of the fence". Mentioned in 1 book. Chronicles 2:51.

Beth-Garai. Translated - "sublime place". Mentioned in the book. Numbers 32:36; book Joshua 13:27.

Beth Dagon. In translation - "house of Dagon". Mentioned in the book. Joshua 15:41.

BEF-EKED. In translation - "shepherd's house". Mentioned in 4 Vol. Kings 10:12, 14.

Beth Yeshimoth. In translation - "house of the desert". Mentioned in the book. Numbers 33:49; book Joshua 12: 3.

Befkarem. In translation - "house of grapes". Mentioned in the book. Jeremiah 6: 1 book Nehemiah 3:14.

Beth-Nimra. In translation - "leopard house". Mentioned in the book. Numbers 32:36; book Joshua 13:23.

Beth-Patsez. In translation - "house of destruction". Mentioned in the book. Joshua 19:21.

Beth Rafa. In translation - "house of healing". Mentioned in 1 book. Chronicles 4:12.

Beth-Rehov. In translation - "house of latitude". Mentioned in the book. Judges 18:28; 2 books. Kings 10: 6-8.

Beth-san. In translation - "rest house". Mentioned in 1 book. Kings 31:10; book Joshua 17:11.

Beth-Tappuach... In translation - "apple house". Mentioned in the book. Joshua 15:53.

Beth Fegor. In translation - "Fegor's house". Mentioned in the book. Deuteronomy 3:29 4:46.

Beth-Hogla. In translation - "house of a partridge". Mentioned in the book. Joshua 15: 6.

Beth-Tzur. In translation - "house of the rock". Mentioned in the book. Joshua 15:58.

Befschitta. In translation - "place of acacias". Mentioned in the book. Judges 7:22.

Bubast. In translation - "Basta's place". Mentioned in the book. Ezekiel 30:17.

Baal Gad. Translated - "the lord of happiness." Mentioned in the book. Joshua 12: 7; book Judges 3: 3.

Baal-Gamon. Translated - "city of many". Mentioned in the book. Song of Solomon 8:11.

Baal-Paratsim. In translation - "lord of defeat". Mentioned in 2 vols. Kings 5:20.

Baal Fegor. In translation - "hole". Mentioned in the book. Numbers 25: 3, 5 Psalm 105: 28.

Baal-Tamar. In translation - "place of palm trees". Mentioned in the book. Judges 20:33.

Babylon. The history of the city is described in detail in chapter 1 "Golden Babylon" of this book.

Bethor. In translation - "house of the lambs". Mentioned in 1 book. Kings 7:11.

Bathsheba. Initially, a well was built on the site of the city, near which Abraham and Abimelech, king of the Philistines, took an oath. After that, some time later, a city arose, named after the well of Bathsheba, that is, "the well of the oath." The Bible is mentioned in the book. Genesis 21:31 33; 26:32; 33; book Joshua 15:28; book Judges 20: 1; 1 book. Kings 8: 2; book Amos 5: 5; 8:14.

Bethlehem-Judea, or Bethlehem-Ephrath. One of the most famous cities mentioned in the Holy Scriptures. The names of many characters in the Bible are associated with Bethlehem. Genesis 35:19: "... Rachel died and was buried on the road to Ephrath, that is, Bethlehem." It should be clarified that Ephrath is the ancient name of Bethlehem, translated as "fruitful". The city belonged to the tribe of Judah, therefore it was also called Bethlehem-Judea (it should be distinguished from Bethlehem-Zebulun, which belonged to the tribe of Zebulun and was located in Galilee). Travelers in ancient Israel knew Bethlehem well - this city lay on the way to Egypt: "And they went and stayed in the village of Himam, near Bethlehem, to go to Egypt" (Book of Jeremiah 41:17). It was to Bethlehem that Naomi went with her devoted daughter-in-law Ruth: "And Naomi returned, and with her daughter-in-law Ruth the Moabite ... and they came to Bethlehem at the beginning of the barley harvest" (Book Ruth 1:22). This city was also called the city of David, since David was born in it, and to this city Joseph also went from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, called Bethlehem, because he was from the house and family of David, sign with Mary ... "(Gospel of Luke 2: 4, 5). In this city was born the Savior of the world, our Lord Jesus Christ: "And she gave birth to her firstborn son, and wrapped Him in swaddling clothes, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn" (Gospel of Luke 2: 7). In the fields of Bethlehem, the Angel of the Lord appeared to the shepherds with the joyful long-awaited message: "For now a Savior is born to you in the city of David, who is Christ the Lord ..." (Gospel of Luke 2:11). From early childhood, Bethlehem-Ephrath was well known to every Israeli child who, at home, at school, and in the synagogue, heard and knew well the prophecy recorded in the book of the prophet Micah 5: 2: "And you, Bethlehem-Ephrath, are you small among the thousands of Judas? Out of you will come to Me the One who is to be the Lord in Israel, and whose origin is from the beginning, from everlasting days. " Translated Bethlehem means "house of bread".

Bethsaida-Julia. It was located not far from Lake Tiberias, and in honor of the daughter of the Roman emperor Octavian-Augustus, it received the second part of the name. Not far from the city, Jesus Christ fed 5000 people with five loaves of bread and two fish (Gospel of Mark 6: 41-45). The city is also famous for the fact that the Lord healed a blind man in it (Gospel of Mark 8: 22-25). Translated means "house of fishing".

Bethsaida of Galilee. A city located by Lake Galilee not far from Capernaum and Chorazin. The apostles Peter, Andrew, Philip were born in Bethsaida. Our Lord Jesus repeatedly visited this city: "Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the powers that were manifested in you had been manifested in Tire and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes" (Gospel of Matthew 11 : 21).

Vosor. One of the largest and richest cities of the Edom kingdom, located in the clefts of impregnable rocks. During its existence, the city was repeatedly conquered by the Moabites and Ammonites, but each time it was rebuilt again, retaining its power. However, the wickedness that reigned in the city destroyed the spirit of its inhabitants, calling out God's judgments. Book. Prophet Jeremiah 49:13: "For by me I swear, says the Lord, for horror, mockery, wilderness and curse will be Vosor, and all its cities will become eternal deserts." Book. Prophet Amos 1:12: "And I will send fire on Teman, and it will devour the palaces of Vosor."

These predictions were exactly fulfilled, and the ominous ruins of fortresses and pagan temples of Vosor clearly illustrate this, confirming the fidelity of the prophetic word of the Bible. Translated Vosor means "sheep pen".

Vosor. (2) The city of the same name to the previous one belonged to the Moabite kingdom. Book. Jeremiah 48:24: "And to Kerioth, and to Bosor, and to all the cities of the land of Moab, far and near ..."

Gibeon. A city that belonged to the Canaanite tribe of Hivites. In the Holy Scriptures, Vol. Joshua, the ninth chapter describes the history of the inhabitants of Gibeon, and the circumstances under which an alliance was concluded between them and the Israelites. Subsequently, the city, deprived of independence, began to belong to the tribe of Benjamin (I. Navin 18:20, 25), and then to the Levites (I. Navin 21:17).

Gibeon gained fame for the fact that it contained a tabernacle with an altar for burnt offerings: all that is written in the law of the Lord, which He commanded Israel ... "(1 Chronicles 16:39, 40). Gibeon is also associated with the name of King Solomon: "And the king went to Gibeon to offer a sacrifice there; for there was the main altar ... in Gibeon the Lord appeared to Solomon in a dream at night, and God said: ask what to give you ... grant but to Thy servant a reasonable heart ... "(3 Kings. Kings 3: 4, 5, 9). This city witnessed the valor and cunning of Joab (2 Kings 2: 12-17; 2 Kings 20: 8-10). Translated - means "sublime".

Hawaii or Gibeah. An ancient city that belonged to the tribe of Benjamin, now a small village of Zhebaia. It was here that the Philistines were defeated by the army of David (2 Kings 5:25). In the Bible, the city is mentioned in 4 books. Kings 23: 8; book Isaiah 10:29. Translated - "hill".

Gadara. One of the main cities of the Gadarin region, mentioned more than once in the Holy Scriptures. Today, only ruins remain on the site of the city, speaking of its former beauty and power. The Bible is mentioned in Matthew 5: 1; 20: 7, 31; Luke 8: 26-40. The Bible does not mention Gadara, but the country of Gadara, consisting of several cities, the main of which was Gadara. The Savior was there, and this area became famous for the miracle that the Lord performed by healing a demoniac who was hiding in graves (caves where the dead were buried). We read this story in the Gospel of Mark 5: 1-17 and the Gospel of Luke 8: 26-37, and it is difficult without regret to read the lines about the inhabitants of the country of Gadarene, who were so invaluable in the herd of pigs, cast into the lake, that they rejected love Christ and asked Him to leave, hardly even fully realizing what they were doing! Doesn't this happen to us when, like the inhabitants of Gadar, we give preference to the material, tangible, willingly or unwittingly being afraid to part with it, and we lose the main thing - the Savior, and that peace, love, joy and wisdom that only He can bestow , and at the same time, like the inhabitants of the ancient city, we become like what we prefer to look at. And if it is indeed sometimes difficult for us to sacrifice something, then it is useful to remember in this case the words of Ellen White, who advises each of us to think about what our Lord Jesus sacrificed for our salvation, and then no sacrifice, no act for the sake of our Lord will seem too heavy to us.

Strip. Translated means "stronghold".

Gazer. Canaanite city, mentioned in the Bible in the book. I. Navina 10:33; subsequently belonged to the Ephraimians, who did not fulfill the command of the Lord, for "... The Ephraimians did not expel the Canaanites who lived in Gezer; therefore, the Canaanites lived among the Ephraimians to this day, paying tribute to them" (Book of Nun 16:10). In the future, Gazer is mentioned in 3 kn. Kings, where in chapter 9, verses 16 and 17 we read that the Egyptian Pharaoh burned Gazer, destroyed the Canaanites who lived there and gave this city as a dowry to his daughter, the wife of Solomon, who rebuilt it. So the command of the Lord, which the Ephraimans had neglected, was carried out by the hands of a pagan Egyptian. Translated Gazer means "piece".

Guy. One of the Canaanite cities, translated means "heap of ruins". We first meet the name of this city in Genesis 12: 8, where we can read that Abraham's tent was placed between Bethel and Ai. The history of this city during the time of Joshua is instructive in many ways for everyone and everyone: on the pages of the book of I. At first; and, secondly, how the arrogance caused by previous success can contribute to an overestimation of one's strength and accomplishment of a deed without the Lord, the result of which is disappointment and, again, defeat and death of many. And on the contrary, the struggle with sin, hatred of sin, striving to fulfill God's will will never entail despair, tears, death, but only great joy and always - victory. Let's together, right now, prayerfully reread these chapters and honestly answer ourselves whether one of us is Achan, does not have anything sworn (someone else's, dishonestly, unjustly acquired), are we not arrogant, are we always looking for God's ways and God's guidance? May our Lord help us to remain always faithful to Him and glorify His Name with our lives. “So let your light shine before people, so that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Heavenly Father” (Matthew 5:16).

Gough-Hefer. An ancient city that belonged to the tribe of Zabulonov (I. Navin 19:13). Gaf-Hefer or Gafhefer was the birthplace of the prophet Jonah (4 Kings 14:25). Translated means - "winepress storehouse".

Gedera. The city that belonged to the tribe of Judah (I. Navin 15:36). The Bible is mentioned in 1 book. Chronicles 12: 4; 27:28. Translated means - "sheepfold".

Gerard. The ancient Canaanite city, which is mentioned in the book. Genesis 10.19, and in the book. Genesis 20: 1-2 reads that Abraham was in this city. "And Abraham said concerning Sarah his wife, she is my sister. And Abimelech king of Gerar sent and took Sarah." Abraham's son Isaac lived in Gerar during the famine: "... and Isaac went to Abimelech king of the Philistines to Gerar. The Lord appeared to him and said: do not go to Egypt; live in the land that I will tell you about ... Isaac settled in Gerar "(Book of Genesis 26: 1-6). Translated means "district".

Gef. Translated - "winepress".

Gilo. An ancient city that belonged to the tribe of Judah. In this city lived the adviser to King David, Ahithophel the Gilonian, who betrayed his king, went over to the side of Absalom and led a conspiracy against David. This cautionary tale can be found in the second book of Kings chapter 15 verse 12 through chapter 17 verse 23.

Gimso. The ancient city, which is part of Judea, with the inhabitants of which a very instructive story also happened. Let's remember the story that happened to the Israelites when they took Ai, which is closely connected with the sin of just one person - Ahaz. Often, when reading the scene of the massacre of this sinner and his family, some are amazed at the cruelty that the Lord could have allowed. We now have a similar story that happened to the Jews: the wicked king Ahaz "did not do what was right in the sight of the Lord ..." The Lord before the face of the children of Israel ... and offered sacrifices ... in the heights and hills ... "(II Chronicles 28: 1-4). One man, King Ahaz, deviating from the ways of the Lord, choosing not the Lord, but the surrounding wicked nations as a model for imitation, carried along with him the Jewish people, which gradually became mired in vices, debauchery, cruelty, and fanaticism that accompanied pagan rituals. and the Lord and His law were neglected. But "God is not mocked" (Galatians 6: 7). The people were punished "for Ahaz, king of Judah, because he corrupted Judah and sinned grievously before the Lord" (2 Chronicles 28:19). So the sin of one is capable of becoming the sin of many, if you do not destroy it in the beginning, if you do not declare war on it, and win - trusting in God. The city of Gimzo was captured by the Philistines, and the Jews were partly killed, partly taken captive. Therefore, the Lord also expects from us love for people, for sinners, intolerance of not only our own sin, but also of our brothers and sisters. "Am I my brother's keeper?" - so said Cain to the Lord. But this is the opinion of Cain, and to us through the centuries and today the question of our Lord sounds, to which we have no right to be indifferent, and to us, which must be answered: "... where is Abel, your brother?" (Book of Genesis 4: 9). Gimzo means "sycamore place".

Gomorrah. The history of this city is outlined in chapter 7.

Gur-Baal. An ancient city located near Arabia. The Bible is mentioned in 2 kn. Chronicles 26: 7. In translation it means - "dwelling of Baal".

Dabeshef. An ancient city that belonged to the tribe of Zabulonov. The Bible is mentioned in the book. Joshua 19:11. In translation it means - "camel's hump".

Davir. The ancient Canaanite city, as scientists believe, may have been the center of the pagan priesthood, for another name for the city is Kiriath-Sefer, which means "city of books" or "book city", and there was another name - Kiriath-Sanna, that is "scholarship". The very name Davir is translated as "oracle". From the book of Joshua, chapter 10, verse 38 it is known that the Israelites with Joshua fought against this city. "And he took him, and his king ... there was no one left who would have survived ..." From chapter 11, verse 21 of the book. I. Navin learn that Davir belonged to the Canaanite tribe of Enakim. Subsequently, the city began to belong to the tribe of Judah, and then "The sons of Aaron were also given cities of refuge: Hebron and Libnu ... Debir and its suburbs ..." (1 Chronicles 6:57, 58).

Damascus. Translated means - "place of trouble".

Dan. An ancient Canaanite city, formerly called Lais or Las. In the book. Joshua 19:46:47 we read that "... the limit of the sons of Dan is small for them. And the sons of Dan went to war against Lassem, and took him ... and settled in him, and called Lassem Dan by the name of Dan, his father. " The book of Judges chapter 18 tells the story of Micah, which ended with the sons of Dan taking from him "" an image, an ephod, a teraphim and a molded idol ... and went to Lais ... they named the city of Dan ... and installed the sons of Dan an image ... and they had an image made by Micah, all the time when the house of God was in Shiloh. "In this city, King Jeroboam, guided by personal selfish considerations, installed a golden calf" and said to the people: you don't need go to Jerusalem; These are your gods, Israel, who brought you out of the land of Egypt. And he put one in Bethel, and the other in Dan ... and this led to sin ... "(3 Kings 12: 27-30). So Israel, being guided not by God's guidance, but by the instructions of the godless king, went further and further from God In translation Dan means - "judge".

Thought. The city that belonged to the tribe of Judah is mentioned in the book. Joshua 15:52. In translation it means - "silent".

Euron. The ancient city, belonged to the tribe of Asirov (I. Navin 19:28). Translated means - "transition".

Eden. In translation - "house of pleasure". It was located in Syria, and is believed to have been one of the royal residences. It was named differently - the Eden house (Amos 1: 5).

Eleale. One of the ancient Canaanite cities, after the partition of Palestine, went to the tribe of Reuben. In the book of Numbers 32: 2-5 we read that the tribes of Gad and Reuben, who owned huge flocks, turned to Moses with a request: "... both Esebon and Eleale ... there is a land suitable for flocks ... Give this land to your servants for a possession; do not bring us over Jordan. " Several centuries later, during the time of the prophets Jeremiah and Isaiah, it was conquered by the Moabites. The ruins of the city that have survived to this day speak of its former glory and wealth. Mentioned in the Bible in the book. Jeremiah 48:34 and book. Isaiah 15: 4. In translation it means - "God is great". Another name for the city - Elala.

Elaf. An ancient port city founded by the Edomites. Under David, the city was conquered by the Israelites, who lost it several times and conquered it again until it was finally conquered by the Syrian king Rezin. The sea trade brought wealth to the city, the size of which can be judged by the ruins of the port. The Bible is mentioned in the book. Deuteronomy 2: 8, 11 4 kn. Kings 14:22 16: 6; 3 kn. Kings 9: 26-28.

Elteke or Eleeke. During the partition of Palestine, the city fell to the tribe of Dan. Mentioned in the book. I. Navin 19:44. Translated - "God is terrible".

En-Gatsor. During the partition of Palestine, it fell to the sons of Naphtali (Prince I. Navin 19:37). In translation - "the source of the village".

En-Rimmon. Belonged to the tribe of Judah. The Bible is mentioned in the book. Nehemiah 11:29 book Zechariah 14:10. In translation - "the source of pomegranate apples".

En-Tappuah. Mentioned in the book. I. Navin 17: 7,8, whence it is known that "The limit of Manasseh goes from Asher ... to the inhabitants of En-Tappuah. The land of Tappuach went to Manasseh, and the city of Tappuakh, near the border of Manasseh, went to the sons of Ephraim." Translated as "apple source".

En-Hadda. Belonged to the tribe of Issakharov (Prince I. Navina 19: 17-21). Translated - "fast stream".

En-Shemesh. The city belonged to the tribe of Judah (pr. I. Navin 15: 7). In translation - "the source of the sun".

Esevon. The former capital of the once formidable Ammorean kingdom, whose rulers took this city from the Moabites. When Palestine was partitioned under Joshua, he went to the sons of Levi. After that, over the course of many tens of centuries, the city changed owners from the Moabites from the 6th century BC to the Arabs. Nowadays, only majestic ruins have survived from the city. Mentioned in the book. Numbers 21: 26-34 book Deuteronomy 2: 24-25. Translated - "invention".

Ephesus. One of the most beautiful cities of the Ancient World, located in Asia Minor (on the territory of modern Turkey) and founded around the XII century BC. The temple of Artemis, which belongs to the seven wonders of the Ancient World, brought special glory to the city. In this city, the silversmith Demetrius provoked a rebellion against the Apostle Paul and his disciples, and the inhabitants of the city "shouted for about two hours: great is Artemis of Ephesus!" Again we meet with a similar story, how one single man himself rejected the light sent by the Lord, and attracted others to do the same, and as a result, "after the end of the rebellion, Paul ... went out and went to Macedonia" (Acts 19 chapter and 20 chapter 1 verse ). During archaeological excavations in the city, the aforementioned temple, dozens of palaces, squares, thermae (baths), an ancient theater with a capacity of about 25 thousand people were discovered. The Ephesian church period (Revelation 2: 1-7) spans the period from 27 to 101 AD. according to R. Kh. and is characterized by the purity of the Gospel teachings, which is perfectly matched by the translation of the name of the city - "desired".

Ether. During the partition of Palestine, the city went to the tribe of Judah (prince I. Navin 15:42). But in chapter 19, verses 1 to 7, we learn that Simeon, to whom the second lot fell, received an inheritance among the sons of Judah, including the city of Ether. Translated means - "abundance".

Ivva or Abba. The city was located on the territory of the Assyrian Empire. Mentioned in the Bible in 4 vols. Kings 18:34. In translation it means "ruins".

Iconium. One of the oldest cities in Asia Minor, the former capital of Lakaonia. The city reached a special prosperity in the XI-XII centuries. by R. Kh., when it became the center of the Seljuk Empire, one of the most powerful and aggressive states of the Middle Ages. After the collapse of the Seljuk state, the city was conquered by the Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire Frederick Barbarossa, then the city was owned by small Muslim principalities, later - the Mongols, and finally, the Ottoman Turks, whose domination has remained to this day. After the sermon in the city of the Apostle Paul and Barnabas, a large Christian community was organized there, whose representatives - Bishops Eulalius and Amphilochius - took part in the ecumenical councils of 325 and 381. The Bible is mentioned in the book. Acts 13:51; 14: 1-6.

Iliopol. Cm. He.

Ifla. During the partition of Palestine, the city went to the tribe of Dan (Prince I. Navin 19:42). Translated means "sublime".

Iagur. The city went to the tribe of Judah during the partition of Palestine, it was located on the border with Idumea (Edom), as we know from the book. I. Navin 15:21.

Jericho. The history of the city is outlined in chapter 2.

Jerusalem. The most ancient name of this famous city is Jebus, after the name of the head of the Jebusite tribe (Prince I. Navin 18:28). It is believed that one of the oldest names for Jerusalem is Salem (in Genesis 14:18: "... Melchizedek, king of Salem"). The city was taken by David: “And the king and his people went to Jerusalem against the Jebusites (2 Kings 5: 6). Solomon built a famous temple, a palace. Jerusalem was repeatedly destroyed by foreigners: Nebuchadnezzar (586 BC) ; Ptolemy (320); Antiochus Epiphanes (169); Titus (70 AD) and rebuilt each time The ancient stones of the city remember the cries of the crowd spreading their clothes on the road along which the Lord Jesus went to the city: "Hosanna to the Son of David!" (Gospel of Matthew 21: 8-9), and these same people soon shouted: "Crucify, crucify Him!" (Gospel of Luke 23:21), "... His blood on us and on our children "(Gospel of Matthew 27:25). Willingly or unwillingly, each of these people made his choice, and, as you know," what a man sows, that he will also reap "(Galatians 6: 7) in 70 AD Jerusalem was destroyed, and its inhabitants were scattered, and for centuries the Israelites, once chosen by God, "reaped" the result of rash words. What an example for each of us! you worry about how they live, what they live for, whom they serve, what reward each will receive at the end of earthly history, which is approaching the hour of midnight ...

Joppa... An ancient Jewish port city that played an important role in the economy of the ancient Jewish state. Having survived numerous invasions and disasters, the city has survived to this day and is now called Jaffa. The Bible is mentioned in the book. I. Navin 19:46; book Jonah 1: 3; 2 books. Chronicles 2:16; book Ezra 3: 7; book Ruth 4: 2; Gospel of John 1: 3; book Acts 10: 9-20. In translation - "beautiful".

Kavul. The city inherited during the partition of Palestine by the tribe of Asirov (Prince I. Navin 19:27). Subsequently, this city, comprising twenty cities of the land of Galilee, King Solomon gave to Hiram, the king of Tire, in payment for the cedar and cypress trees and gold that Hiram delivered to Solomon for the construction of the house of the Lord and the house of the king, but he did not like these cities: "... what are these cities that you ... gave me? And called them the land of Kabul ... "(3 Kings 9: 10-13). Kavul is translated as "dry land".

Kademof... During the partition of Palestine, it went to the sons of Reuben (Prince I. Navin 13:18). In translation - "ancient".

Kalakh. From Genesis 10:11 we learn that Asshur, who came out of the land of Shinar, "... built Nineveh, Rehobothir, Kalach." Translated - "maturity".

Kalhe or Kalke or Halne... The city built by Nimrod is mentioned in the book. Genesis 10:10 book Isaiah 10: 9.

Capernaum. This city is repeatedly mentioned in the Gospels, since our Lord Jesus Christ has been here many times: "... leaving Nazareth, he came and settled in Capernaum by the seaside, within the boundaries of Zebulun and Naphtali, so that what was said through the prophet Isaiah might come true, who says:" The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, on the seaside path, beyond Jordan, pagan Galilee, the people sitting in darkness saw a great light ... " The Lord performed many miracles in this city: “When Jesus entered Capernaum, a centurion came up to Him and asked Him: Lord! my servant lies at home ... suffering severely ... ". The end of this wonderful story is well known:" ... and how you believed, let it be for you. And his servant was recovered at that hour. "In the same city, the Lord Jesus healed Peter's mother-in-law, the possessed. Capernaum began to be called" His city ":" Then He ... came to His city "(from the country of Gergesina, which was mentioned above) In this city, Jesus called Matthew to the ministry, here he spoke many parables. And despite the many miracles that the Lord performed in Capernaum, despite the many parables that sounded in it, the inhabitants of the city did not repent: "Then He began to reproach the cities, in which His might was most manifested, because they did not repent ... And you, Capernaum, ascended to heaven, will be cast down to hell; for if in Sodom the powers were manifested in you, it would have remained to this day; But I tell you that the land of Sodom will be more joyful in the day of judgment than for you. "Now from the former Capernaum there are only ruins, reminiscent of the former greatness of the city. The Bible is mentioned in the Gospel of Matthew 4:13; 11:23; 9: 1; 17:24; 8: 14-15; 9: 2-6; 9: 9; 9: 10-17; 15: 1-20; Mark 2: 1; 1: 29-31; 1: 32-54 ; Gospel of Luke 7: 1; 4:33; Gospel of John 4:46; 6: 22-71; etc. Translated - "the village of Naum".

Carchemis. One of the oldest Middle Eastern cities, the early history of which goes back to the distant past, to the Aramaic tribes, who made it one of their main cities. The name of the city is mentioned in almost all ancient annals, which testifies to its former significance. But the city gained the greatest fame in history due to the fact that a powerful battle broke out near it in 605, which decided the future of the world: between the recently recreated New Babylonian kingdom and the recently revived Egyptian kingdom, between the troops of Nebuchadnezzar and Pharaoh Necho, who sought to conquer Palestine. The battle ended with the defeat of Necho and the establishment of the hegemony of Babylon in Palestine, which first forced the Jews to recognize their rule, and then completely destroyed the Jewish statehood in 586, destroying Jerusalem and taking the Jews into Babylonian captivity. The Bible is mentioned in 2 Vol. Chronicles 35:20; book Isaiah 10: 9; book Jeremiah 46: 2. In translation - "the city of Hamos".

Keila... During the partition of Palestine, it went to the tribe of Judah (Prince I. Navin 15:44). In translation - "strengthening".

Caesarea... The Jewish city, erected by Herod the Great, in honor of the Roman Caesar (Caesar) Octavian Augustus, on the site of an ancient settlement. For 1,300 years, despite frequent changes of ownership, the city played an important role in the political life of Palestine until it fell into decay and was abandoned by its inhabitants. The city is repeatedly mentioned in the Holy Scriptures, in the book. Acts 3:30 8:40; 10: 1; 11:17; 12: 19-23; 18:22. Now on the site of the city are scattered majestic ruins of towers, temples, houses.

Kecil... When Palestine was partitioned, it began to belong to the tribe of Judah (prince I. Navin 15:30). Translated - "reckless".

Kefir... During the partition of Palestine, it went to the tribe of Benjamin (Prince I. Navin 18:26). Mentioned in Ezra 2:25; book Nehemiah 7:29. Translated - "village".

Kiriathaim. Town; built by the sons of Reuben (Book of Numbers 32:37). In translation - "double city".

Kirinei or Cyrene... The city is located in Libya, in North Africa. Under the Ptolemies, a significant part of the Jews were resettled to this city, who, in the end, made up the majority of the population there. For the first time we meet the name of the city on the pages of the Gospel of Matthew 27:31: Simon of Cyrene carried the cross of our Lord to Calvary. We also meet the name of this city in the book. Acts 2:10 6: 9; 11:20; 13: 1.

Kiriath-Baal. The city belonged to the tribe of Judah (pr. I. Navin 15: 9). In translation - "forest city".

Corinth... One of the oldest cities in Greece, once the capital of an independent kingdom. Originally it bore the name of Ether, had two harbors - Leheyskaya and Kenkhreyskaya. On the isthmus connecting the Peloponnese with the mainland, the fortress of Acrocorinth stood. The morale of the inhabitants of the city shocked even the Romans, who were not distinguished by high morality. And indeed, studying the history and life of the city, the rare, flagrant depravity of its inhabitants is striking, not inferior to Sodom. Numerous temples of the city were real brothels, and staying in them was considered mandatory. Especially popular were the temples of Poseidon - the god of the seas, Apollo - the god of arts and Aphrodite - the goddess of love. The apostle Paul preached in this city, and his labors were crowned with success. Paul sent two letters to the Christians of Corinth that we have the opportunity to study through Bible studies. The Bible also mentions the city in Acts 18: 1.

The rulers of Corinth Kipselis (657-582) ruled for 75 years:

1. Kipsel (657-627)

2. Periander (627-585)

3. Psammentich (585-582)

Cana of Galilee. During the partition of Palestine, the city went to the tribe of Asirov (Prince I. Navin 19:28). The city is mentioned in chapter 2 of the Gospel of John, from verse 1, where the well-known story of the miracle that the Lord Jesus performed at the very beginning of his ministry, turning water into wine at a wedding in Cana of Galilee, is recorded. In Cana, where the Lord came again, he healed the son of the courtier in absentia (Gospel of John 4: 46-54). We meet the name of this city in chapter 21, verse 2 of the Gospel of John, where we read that Nathanael was from Cana of Galilee.

Lais... See city Dan... In translation Lais means "like a lion".

Laodicea... One of the wealthy cities of Asia Minor, founded by the king of Syria from the Seleucid dynasty Antiochus II (262-246) at the intersection of trade routes. Thanks to the latter, the city was famous for the richest extensive trade, beautiful buildings. The wealth of the city is also evidenced by the fact that after a terrible earthquake (60 A.D.), the inhabitants refused to help the imperial center, restoring the city at their own expense. Laodicea was also one of the finest resorts in ancient Rome, thanks to its warm alkaline springs. Numerous entertainment establishments were built for the Roman wealthy who came to the city. Travelers said that a person who entered the city forgot about everything, plunging into a state of sweet pleasure and bliss. Under Diolektian (285-305), the city became the center of the Roman province of Phrygia, which was once an independent kingdom, formed after the collapse of the empire of Alexander the Great. However, Laodicea in the book of Revelation, 5th chapter means primarily a spiritual meaning, symbolizing the last period in the history of the church, which began in 1844. With the gaze of faith, the Apostle John saw the church of our days, whose members considered themselves spiritually rich: "I know your deeds; you are neither cold nor hot; oh, if you were cold or hot! But since you are warm, not hot and I am not cold, then I will cast you out of my mouth. For you say: "I am rich, I have become rich and have no need of anything"; but you do not know that you are miserable and wretched, and poor, and blind, and naked "(Revelation 3 : 15-17). People, locked in their pride, self-righteousness and complacency, were left without Christ! It is to such people that the Lord addresses in this last time, in which you and I live: "I advise you to buy from Me gold, refined by fire, so that you may be enriched, and white clothes, so that you can dress and so that the shame of your nakedness is not visible, then with eye salve anoint your eyes that you may see "(Revelation 3:18). This is what you and I most need:

1. In gold, purified by fire - that is, in FAITH.

2. In white clothes - that is, in the RIGHTNESS OF JESUS CHRIST.

3. In eye ointment - that is, in the HOLY SPIRIT.

The Savior says to each of us today: "Whom I love, I reprove and punish. So, be zealous and repent. Behold, I stand at the door and knock: if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him ... He who overcomes will let him sit down. with me on my throne ... "(Revelation 3: 19-21). The translation of the word Laodicea is full of special meaning, especially today for us - "people of judgment" - for we live with you during the investigative judgment in heaven, when the eternal fate of everyone who considers himself a Christian is being decided. May the Lord Jesus help each of us to remain faithful to Him to the end.

Laseya... The city is mentioned in the book. Acts 27: 8. Translated means - "severe".

Lydda or Lod... The city was built by the sons of Benjamin (1 Chronicles 8:12), then the city was destroyed, and its inhabitants were taken into Babylonian captivity, but later their descendants returned and re-populated and restored Lydda (Book Ezra 2:33; Book of Nehemiah 11:35). In translation - "separation".

Lystra... We meet the mention of this city on the pages of the book of Acts 14: 6-22, in this city Paul and Barnabas preached, here Paul healed a lame man, and the population of the city at the sight of this miracle took Paul and Barnabas for pagan gods, intended to bring them sacrifices " ... they barely convinced the people not to sacrifice to them ... "In the same city" ... when the apostles boldly preached ... they stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, believing him to be dead. " Paul visited Lystra again when a church was organized in this city, "... there was a certain disciple named Timothy ... Paul wanted him to take with him ..." (Book of Acts 16: 1-3). Timothy became a devoted disciple, two epistles of the Apostle Paul are addressed to him.

Magdala... A city located near Capernaum is mentioned in Matthew 15:39. For some time, Mary lived in Magdala, nicknamed by the name of this city Magdalene, who became a faithful disciple of Jesus Christ. Translated - "tower".

Maked... The ancient Canaanite city is mentioned in the book. Joshua in chapter 10. Near this city the people of Israel fought with the army of five kings of the Amorites, "Jesus cried out to the Lord ... And the sun stopped and the moon stood, while the people avenged their enemies ... And there was no such day either before or after that The Lord would have heard the voice of a man. For the Lord fought for Israel. " The five Amorite kings then hid in a cave at Makeda. In translation - "place of shepherds".

Me-Iarkon. The Canaanite city, during the partition of Palestine, was inherited by the tribe of Dan (Prince I. Navin 19:46). In translation - "water of a fawn color".

Mefaath... The city that went to the tribe of Reuben (Prince I. Navin 13:18), and later the city began to belong to the Levites (Prince I. Navin 21:37). Translated - "elevation".

Michmas... The city, located not far from Jerusalem, belonged to the tribe of Benjamin. Mentioned in 1 book. Kings 13: 2 - in this city was part of the army led by Saul during the war with the Philistines. The inhabitants of the city were subsequently in Babylonian captivity, from where their descendants returned, consisting of 122 people (Bk. Ezra 2:27). The city is mentioned in the book. Isaiah 10:28. In translation - "refuge".

Naas... A city that belonged to the tribe of Judah (1 Chronicles 4:12). Translated - "serpent".

Nagalal... The city, which belonged to the tribe of Zabulonov (pr. I. Navin 19:15), later went to the Levites (pr. I. Navin 21:35). Translated - "pasture".

Nazareth... Galilee city that belonged to the tribe of Zebulun. The city where the childhood of our Savior passed. The inhabitants of the city were distinguished by poverty and low morality. Mentioned in the Bible in Matthew 2:23; 21:11; Luke 1:26; John 1:45 Acts 10:38. In translation - "branch, or fenced off place".

Nivshan... A city that belonged to the tribe of Judah (I. Navin 15:62). Translated - "fertile".

Nikopol... Mentioned in the epistle of the Apostle Paul to Titus 3:12, where Paul intended to spend the winter. It is believed that the city was located in Macedonia. In translation - "city of victory".

Nofa or Nova... The city was part of ancient Moab, then - in the tribe of Reuben. Mentioned in the book. Numbers 21:30 and book. Judges 8:11. Translated - "breath".

Adollam or Adollam... We meet the name of this ancient city on the pages of Genesis 38: 1, 20; 2 books. Kings 23:13 in the book. Micah 1:15. The city was in ancient times the residence of one of the Canaanite kings, then went to the tribe of Judah. In 1 book. Kings 22: 1 we read that David was hiding in the cave of Adollam from the king of Geth, Achus.

He or Iliopol... See the city of Iliopol. In translation - "sun".

Oronaim... Ancient Moabite city; meet with the mention of him in the book. Jeremiah in chapter 48, in the prophecy about Moab. In translation - "two caves".

Paf... A city located in Cyprus, we meet with a mention of it in the book. Acts in chapter 13, where we read the story of how Paul and Barnabas preached the word of God to the proconsul Sergius Paul, and how Elim, who opposed them, was stricken with blindness.

Pergamum... Capital of the ancient Pergamon kingdom; the city of Pergamum proudly bore its name - "high castle". He proudly towered not only in the political and economic, but also in the spiritual sense over the cities and peoples of the Ancient World. And this is not surprising, for this city considered itself the legal successor of Ancient Babylon - the golden head, the former capital of the world.

According to the drawing by R. Bon in the reports on the Pergamon excavations

Image from the Persepolis relief, Iran

It was to Pergamum, after the defeat of Babylon, that the center of the world priesthood, the center of apostate forces, moved. It was in this city that a temple was erected for the first time in the world in honor of the Roman emperor Augustus in 29 BC, whose goal was to raise a person to the level of God, making him equal to Him. Thus, it was argued that any person can sooner or later become equal to God. The city was also the center of worship of such pagan deities as Zeus - the god of thunder, Athena - the warrior goddess, Dionysus - the god of winemaking, Asclepius - the god of the art of healing. Magnificent temples were erected to each of these gods. By the way, the modern sign of doctors, the snake and the bowl, originates from the symbol of Asclepius.

Remnants of the Persian capital of Persepolis retain only a glimpse of its former splendor

But the temple of Zeus was especially popular, which many added to the seven wonders of the Ancient World. The city was also famous for its library containing thousands of the most valuable manuscripts. Under Tsar Eumenes, the famous paper was invented, named after the city with parchment. The Pergamon Church Period (Book of Revelation 2: 12-17) spans the period from 323 to 538. according to R. Kh. and is characterized by the union of church and state, Christianity and paganism. It was during this period that such false teachings, originating in paganism, penetrate into the teaching of the church, such as the veneration of Sunday (pagan day of the sun) instead of the biblical Sabbath, for "... God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it ..." (Book. Genesis 2: 3); worship of memorial places, patron saints, the Virgin Mary, which contradicts the truth stated in the pages of Holy Scripture: "For there is one God, one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus" (1 Epistle of the Apostle Paul to Timothy 2: 5), " ... if anyone sinned, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ, the Righteous One, He is the atonement for our sins, and not only for ours, but also for the sins of the whole world "(First Epistle of the Apostle John 2: 1, 2) ; the introduction of a magnificent church service, the construction of magnificent temples - all this led to a deviation from the purity of Christ's teaching and from the law of God: "And what we have known Him, we learn from the fact that we keep His commandments. Who says:" I knew Him, but the commandments He does not keep, that liar, and there is no truth in him ... "(First Epistle of the Apostle John 2: 3-4).

The rulers of the Pergamon kingdom of Attalids (282-133) ruled for 149 years.

1. Fileter the First (282-263)

2. Eumenes the First (263-241)

3. Attalus the First "Savior" (241-197)

4. Eumenes II (197-159)

5. Attalus II Philadelphus (159-138)

6. Attalus the Third (138-133)

Pefor... Mentioned in Numbers 22: 5; the city where Balaam lived, to which the Moabite king Balak sent ambassadors with a request to curse the people of Israel. It is useful to reread this very instructive story more than once, in it a lesson for us, how one single sin - greed, once ruined God's prophet Balaam (Book of Numbers 22, 23, 24 and Chapters 31: 1-8). In translation - "interpretation of dreams".

Rabbi... An ancient Canaanite city that belonged to the tribe of Issachar after the partition of Palestine (book I. Navin 19:20). Translated - "extensive".

Frame or Ramafa, or Ramafaim... Several cities bore this name. The city of Rama belonged to the tribe of Benjamin, not far from it, Deborah lived under a palm tree: "At that time Deborah the prophetess was the judge of Israel ..." (Book of Judges 4: 4-5). Cities under this name: a city that belonged to the tribe of Naphtali; the city of the tribe of Ephraim, where the prophet Samuel was born; the city of the tribe of Asirov; the city of the tribe of Simeon, located within the tribe of Judah, are mentioned in the Bible: book. I. Navina 18:25; 19:36; 19:29; 19: 8; 1 book. Kings 1: 1. Translated - "height".

Resen... Mentioned in Genesis 10:12. Translated - "strong".

Receph or Retsev... Mentioned in the Bible in 4 vols. Kings 19:12 book Isaiah 37:12. In translation - "stronghold".

Ribla or Rivla... Mentioned in the Bible in the book. Numbers 34:11; in 4 kn. Kings 23:33. Translated - "fruitful".

Rimmon... The city of the tribe of Zebulun, which later became the property of the Levites. It is believed that another name for the city is DIMNA. Mentioned in the book. I. Navin 19:13; 1 book. Chronicles 6:77. In translation - "pomegranate tree".

View from the Atrium through the tablinum to the peristyle

Part of the extensive ruins of the city of Ephesus (in modern Turkey), which can be used to judge the merits of the architectural planning of Greek and Roman cities

With the construction of aqueducts, Rome contributed a lot to the development of civilization and hygiene in the era of antiquity. The Pont du Gard threw one of these pipelines across the river to the city of Rome, where the water flowing through it went to public baths, fountains and springs, as well as to the courtyards of the townspeople

Roglim... Mentioned in the Bible in 2 Vol. Kings 17:27; 19:31. In translation - "place of felting cloths".

Salkha... A city that belonged to half of the tribe of Manasseh. Mentioned in the Bible in the book. Deuteronomy 3:10; book I. Navina 12: 5. In translation - "wandering".

Sevina or Tsafona, or Tsafon... A city that belonged to the tribe of Dan. Mentioned in the Bible in the book. I.Navina 13:27; book Judges 12: 1.

Sevoim... The city was destroyed along with Sodom and Gomorrah; mentioned in the book. Deuteronomy 29:23 book Hosea 11: 8.

Ziklag or Cyclag... Mentioned in the Bible in 1 book. Kings 27: 6. Translated - "oppressed".

Marble statue in Vatican

History has passed by Petra for centuries. But once the city was a junction point for caravan routes between the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea.

Separvaim or Sifara... From this Syrian city, part of the population was resettled to Samaria after the conquest of the city by the Syrian king Shalmaneser (4 Kings 17:24).

Sidon... Translated - "fishing".

Silom... The city of the tribe of Ephraim. The Tabernacle with the Ark of the Covenant was installed here, and it was here before Elijah and Samuel, who was brought up under her. Mentioned in the Bible in the book. I. Navina 18: 1; book Judges 18:31; Psalms 77:60. Translated - "calm".

Syracuse... The ancient city, founded in 735 BC and for several centuries the capital of an independent state, in which periods of republic and tyranny were replaced. With a beautiful port, the city controlled Mediterranean trade.

Excavations carried out in the city speak of its extraordinary wealth. In 214, the city was destroyed by the Romans, after which it lost its political independence. The famous mathematician Archimedes, who was born in this city, and died there at the hands of the Roman war, brought great fame to Syracuse. The Bible is mentioned in the book. Acts 28:12.

The rulers of Syracuse:

1. Gelon (485-477),

2. Hieron the First (477-467)

3. Dionysius the First Elder (406-367)

4. Dionysius the Second the Younger (367-357) (346-343)

5. Dion (357-346)

6. Timoleon (343-337)

7. Agafolk (317-289)

8. Hierokles (289-270)

9. Hieron II (270-215)

10. Jerome (215-214)

Shechem or Sychar... One of the oldest Canaanite cities, under Joshua became part of Israel. The Bible is mentioned in the book. Genesis 12: 6; 37: 12-14; book I. Navina 20: 7; 21:21; 24: 1-25; book Judges 8:31; 3 kn. Kings 12: 1; John 4: 5. Translated - "shoulder".

Skifpol or Beth-san or Scythian Castle... The city belonged to the tribe of Manasseh, but was located in the territory of the tribe of Issachar. Mentioned in the book. Judges 1:27. In translation - "the city of the Scythians".

Marble statue in Vatican

Smyrna... One of the ancient cities of Asia Minor, the history of which can be divided, as it were, into two periods. The first, until 627 BC, was semi-legendary, until the city was destroyed by Media; the second, which began under Alexander the Great, who rebuilt the city, turning it into the largest commercial and political center of the ancient world. In the turbulent centuries that followed, Smyrna is on the side of Rome, which, in the end, subjugates the recent capital. The city amazed travelers with an abundance of temples and palaces, towering in all its parts. Unlike many other cities of Asia Minor, Smyrna was not only not destroyed in the crucible of history, but on the contrary, has always retained an important economic importance, existing in our time. Now it is a large Turkish port of Izmir.

The period of the Church of Smyrna described by John in Revelation 2: 8-11 spans the period from 101 to 323 AD. This was the time of the most terrible persecutions that Satan, through the Roman emperors, brought down on the Christian church, seeking to destroy it. Hundreds of thousands of Christians were subjected to inhuman torture, crucified, burned, hunted by wild beasts. But, guided by the Holy Spirit, the church passed these tests, bearing with honor its name - Smyrna, that is, "fragrant."

Sodom... The history of the city is described in chapter 7. In translation - "burning".

General view of the ancient Athenian acropolis.

According to the rough plan restored by G. Renlander

Soho... Mentioned in the book. I. Navin 15:48. The city belonged to the tribe of Judah. Translated - "bush".

Sonam or Sunem... The city of the tribe of Issakharov. Mentioned in the book. I. Navin 19:18. In translation - "uneven place".

Suva or Owl... Ancient Canaanite city. Mentioned in 1 book. Kings 14:47. Translated - "base".

Sur... The city on the way from Palestine to Egypt is also called the desert. Mentioned in the book. Genesis 16: 7. In translation - "wall".

Tabafa... Mentioned in the book. Judges 7:22. Translated - "famous".

Tanis... The history of the city is presented by us in the book "World History and Bible Prophecies".

Tarsus... Homeland of Saul, who later became the apostle Paul. Mentioned in the book. Acts 9:11 21:39.

Tevet... Mentioned in Judges 9:50. In translation - "shine".

Tel Aviv... Mentioned in the book. Ezekiel 3:15. In translation - "heap of ears".

Shooting gallery... In translation - "rock".

Ur. .

Philadelphia... One of the Lydian cities, erected by the king of Pergamum Attalus II Philadelphus. The latter received his nickname Philadelphus, that is, "loving brother", for the fact that he remained faithful to his brother Eumenes, when the hardships befell him. After the incorporation of the Pergamon Kingdom into Rome in 133 BC, the city became one of the centers of grape growing. Throughout its existence, Philadelphia has been destroyed by earthquakes several times. The Philadelphia Church Period (Book of Revelation 3: 7-13) spans the period from 1833 to 1844. and is characterized by the powerful proclamation of the message of the imminent second coming of Jesus Christ and the return to the origins of the apostolic church.

Faanach... Mentioned in the book. I. Navina 12:21; book Judges 5:19. In translation - "sandy soil".

Fekoy... The Bible is mentioned in 2 Vol. Kings 14: 2; 4; nine; 23:26. In translation - "attachment".

Thessalonica... Greek city; mentioned in the book. Acts 17: 1. The city where the Apostle Paul preached, where the church was organized. Mentioned in the Bible book. Acts 17: 1 eleven; 13; Philippians 4:16; 2 Timothy 4:10.

Fimnafa... The story of the Israelite judge Samson mentions this city in Judges 14: 1.5. In translation - "destiny".

Thyatira... One of the richest trading cities in Asia Minor, where pottery, copper smelting, tailoring and dyeing flourished.

The period of the Thyatira Church (Book of Revelation 2: 18-29) covers the period from 538 to 1798. and is characterized by a complete deviation from the teachings of Christ Jesus, papal terror and despotism, a ban on reading the Bible on pain of death, the inquisition. The name of the city is translated as "tireless sacrifice", which perfectly corresponds to this period in the history of the church.

Khali... The city in the tribe of Asirov, mentioned in the book. I. Navin 19:25. In translation - "decoration".

Hamaf... City in the tribe of Neffadim, mentioned in the book. I. Navin 19:35. In translation - "hot springs".

Haroshef-Goim... Mentioned in Judges 4: 2. Translated - "art".

Hebron... Mentioned in the book. Numbers 13:23. In translation - "connection".

Hebron is a typical biblical city

Helkaf... Mentioned in the book. I. Navin 21:31. The city belonged to the tribe of Asirov, later passed to the Levites. In translation - "destiny".

Hiflis... City of the tribe of Judah (pr. I. Navin 15:40). Translated - "department".

Hub... Mentioned in the book. Ezekiel 30: 5.

Khutma... City of the tribe of Judah (Prince I. Navin 15:54). In translation - "fortress".

Tsair... Mentioned in 4 Vol. Kings 8:21. Translated - "weak".

Cer... City of the tribe of Naphtali (Prince I. Navin 19:35).

Shaaraim... City of the tribe of Judah (pr. I. Navin 15:36). Mentioned also in 1 book. Kings 17:52; 1 book. Chronicles 4:31.

Shagatsima... The city of the tribe of Issachar (Prince I. Navin 19:22). Translated - "hill".

Shamir... Mentioned in the book. Judges 10: 1. Translated - "turn".

Erech... City in the kingdom of Nimrod (book Genesis 10:10). In translation - "length".

Utah... City of the tribe of Judah (Prince I. Navin 15:55).

Yaac... Mentioned in Deuteronomy 2:32. In translation - "smooth place".