the Week of Proper 28 / Ordinary 33
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Bible Dictionaries
alilee in The Time of Christ
Smith's Bible Dictionary
or Gal'ilee in The Time of Christ. Galilee in The Time of Christ. - From Rev. Selah Merrill's late book (1881) with this title, we glean the following facts:
Size. - It is estimated that of the 1000 square miles in Palestine west of the Jordan, nearly one-third, almost 2000 square miles, belongs to Galilee.
Population. - The population is between 2,000,000 and 3,000,000. Dr. Merrill argues for the general correctness of Josephus' estimates, who says there were 204 cities and villages in Galilee, the smallest of which numbered 15,000 inhabitants.
Character of the country. Galilee was a region of great natural fertility. Such is the fertility of the soil that it rejects no plant, for the air is so genial that it suits every variety. The walnut, which delights above other trees in a wintry climate, grows here luxuriantly together with the palm tree, which is flourished by heat. It not only possesses the extraordinary virtue of nourishing fruits of opposite climes, but also maintains a continual supply of them. Here were found all the productions which made Italy rich and beautiful. Forests covered its mountains and hills, while its uplands, gentle slopes and broader valleys were rich in pasture, meadows, cultivated fields, vineyards, olive groves and fruit trees of every kind.
Character of the Galileans. - They were thoroughly a Jewish people. With few exceptions, they were wealthy and, in general, an influential class. If one should say the Jews were bigoted in religion, he should remember at the same time that in regard to social, commercial and political relations none were more cosmopolitan in either sentiment or practice than they. The Galileans had many manufactures, fisheries, some commerce, but were chiefly an agricultural people. They were eminent for patriotism and courage, as were their ancestors, with great respect for law and order. - Editor.
These files are public domain.
Smith, William, Dr. Entry for 'alilee in The Time of Christ'. Smith's Bible Dictionary. https://www.studylight.org/dictionaries/eng/sbd/a/alilee-in-the-time-of-christ.html. 1901.
