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Who Wrote the Book of Hebrews?

Who_Wrote_the_Book_of_Hebrews
Apostle Paul

 The book of Hebrews is thought of as more elaborate and refined than all of the books in the New Testament. This section of the bible has been titled as a ‘masterpiece’ and immensely complex. From the first records of the Christian church, its origins and who wrote it have been contemplated. It is thought that at one point the author had been recognized and revered by its audience. However that knowledge is lost and is now thought of as unattainable. There is in fact, so much information unknown concerning Hebrews that not only is the writer in question but the date it was made, and even the name, “To [the] Hebrews” is debated as the original title.

Traditional thinking states that Paul is the writer for the Book of Hebrews, and up till the 1800s, the question was satisfied. Even though there is a high number of Christians (scholars and common folk alike) today who still stand for the statement, the question has once again come to surface with doubts. Below is the thinking from both sides of the matter:

Paul wrote the Book of Hebrews

  • 13th Chapter of Hebrews mentions Timothy as a missionary partner with Paul (Jesus had sent disciples to go in groups of two)
  • 13th Chapter also says the words were from ‘Italy’ – this matches Paul’s location
  • The different ways of writing is to focus attention to a different people
  • The King James Bible clearly states Paul as the author
  • The author was a Jew, so was Paul
  • Paul didn’t want to include his name in the book of Hebrews since his relation with the Gentiles making him unpopular with his native people.

 Paul did not write the Book of Hebrews

  •  The ‘style’ of writing, the theological view, and religious memories are different.
  • The author was probably a student or a friend of Paul’s from the different way of writing
  • The author was probably a leader of a largely Jewish society for which they were writing
  • The author had to have been Priscilla, and the name was taken out to conceal its female origins or to prevent the writing from being suppressed.  “The lack of any firm data concerning the identity of the author in the extant writings of the church suggests a deliberate blackout more than a case of collective loss of memory.” Gilbert Bilezikian
  • No salutation – Paul always has some form of ‘salutation’, it would only be logical to say that the anonymous writing was not his.
  • Although Paul was an educated writer, he had personally declared that he did not write with a superior air of which Hebrews is written.
  • Paul often branched out from one subject to another whereas Hebrews stays on one concept from beginning to end.
  • Paul used personal pronouns such as “I”, “me”, “my”, and “mine” more than a hundred times per section. Hebrews only does that 7 times in the whole book.
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Lombards

The Lombards once gained full control of Italy from 568 until 774 AD where they are located on the Biblical Timeline with World History. According to historians, this Germanic tribe came from a smaller group of people called the Winnili. They were originally from Scandinavia and eventually migrated to various areas in search of new lands to conquer. By the 1st century AD, the Lombards formed a portion of the Suebi that was located in northwestern Germany. Four centuries after, they transferred to another area that was situated in the northern part of the Danube river. They also fought with the Heruls and Gepids during a few encounters with these other tribes.

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Lombards
‘Paul the Deacon, historian of the Lombards.’

The Rise of the Lombards

King Audoin, a Lombard, successfully defeated the Gepid military leader named Thurisind in 551 AD. When Alboin took the place of this great Lombard king, he was able to destroy the Gepids during the Battle of Asfeld. With much inspiration from his victories, Alboin led his people to settle in Italy. At that time, the land depopulated as a result of the Gothic War. Upon reaching Italy, the Lombards joined a few other tribes such as the Gepids, Ostrogoths, Saxons, Bulgars, Heruls and Thuringians. In 559 AD, the Lombards had already invaded all of the major cities in the northern part of the Po River. Even several areas of the southern and central portions of Italy succumbed to this powerful tribe. The Lombards established a kingdom called Regnum Italicum, which was situated in Italy. However, the kingdom fell apart when it was conquered by King Charlemagne, a Frankish ruler who decided to integrate this into his very own empire. Nevertheless, Lombard nobilities maintained control of some parts of Italy into the 11th century until they were invaded by the Normans.

Origin of the Lombards

In a written account by Paul the Deacon, a historian, the history and practices of the Lombards may be taken from the document made in the 7th century, which explained the origin of this tribe. In the said narrative, there was a small tribe referred to as the Winnili that lived in southern Scandinavia. The tribe was divided into three groups, and one of these departed from their homeland in search for foreign fields. Based on researchers, a possible reason for this would be overpopulation. In one occasion, the Vandals, another powerful tribe, were preparing for war against the Winnili. Before the battle, they prayed to Godan, who replied that victory will be given to those who would come first at the battlefield before the sun rises. However, the Winnili were much fewer in number, and they asked for advice from Frea. The goddess suggested that all of the women should tie and wear their hair in the front part of their faces like a beard. They must also march along with their husbands. When Godan found them early in the morning, he asked Frea who these long-beard mean were. Frea only answered that it is only fair that this tribe should be given victory. Thus, this started the name “Lombard”. Originally, it was referred to as Langobardi, Lombardi, and Lombards. These people also grew their beards in memory of Godan, and they decided to keep this appearance that gave them a distinct quality from the others.

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Yemenite Kingdom Subject to the Abyssinians 

Various civilizations were on the rise during the peak of the Yemenite Kingdom, specifically in Mesopotamia, Egypt and several areas situated nearby the Mediterranean Sea. In fact, Yemen served as a widely recognized and significant trade link that connected these civilizations. Numerous goods were traded including incense, which was popular among pre-Islamic nations that took part in the trades.

The Minaean kingdom (1200 to 650 BC) became quite popular at that time because of its spices and frankincense. Another nation that was regarded as its great success and prosperity was Sheba, which was regarded as its efficient irrigation and farming system. A few other nations that were a part of the trade included Hadhramaut and the Qataban kingdoms. These two kingdoms eventually became a part of South Yemen.

Himyar was another pre-Islamic kingdom during that era, which was also joined in the trade. The kingdom was formed during the first century BC, and it ended in about 500 AD where it is located on the Bible Timeline Chart with World History. At that time, Sheba and Himyar had a significant impact on the Yemenite kingdom. These states were even coined as the Arabia Felix because of their prosperity that surpassed several nations.

Conquer of the Yemenite Kingdom

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Red Sea

During the first century BC, Egypt was invaded by Rome, and the Red Sea was turned into the new major route of commerce. Hence, the Arabian kingdoms in the southern part of the nation reached their decline as caravan routes were no longer widely recognized by traders in that era. Soon, the regimes in Yemen also became much weaker as the other trading kingdoms were no longer able to protect the nation from the invasion of the Abyssinians, which is now referred to as Ethiopia. The conquest began in the 4th century by the Abyssinian kingdom, which was followed by the Sassanids in the 6th century. By the 7th century, the Islamic era was on the rise, and this resulted in a significant part of the formation of the Yemeni people and the entire kingdom.

Beginning 525 AD, Yemen succumbed to an intense time of turmoil with the Abyssinians. It also lasted for about 50 years and was eventually followed by the Persians’ rule and control over Yemen. It was also during this period that there was an extensive conflict in terms of the tribal, religious and political aspects of the kingdom. The main purpose of the Persians was to seize the Romans by gaining victory over the Abyssinian army stationed in Yemen. At around 575 AD, the Abyssinians were finally defeated because of the powerful Persian army that reigned supreme over their opponents.

For over 70 years, the Yemenite kingdom was controlled by the Abyssinians. This was also during the time when Christianity was considered as a significant religion throughout the land. Also, the Abyssinians also ruled over some portions of the Arabia Felix.

However, the reign of Abyssinians came to an end when they finally left Yemen, along with the troops of Ayrit, who was the leader of the 70,000 army. The Himyarite ruler, being aware of his defeat, decided to drown himself when he knew that his reign was soon to reach its end. He was also the last ruler of the line of emperors by the Himyarites.

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Laodicea Council 360 AD

Arranged the Canon of Old and New Testament 

In about 360 AD where it is marked in the Biblical Timeline Poster, the Laodicea Ad Lycum, or simply the Laodicea, is where the Synod convened in Phrygia Pacatiana. This place is quite different from Syria’s Laodicea, much to the confusion of some people. While the actual year of the council remains to be unclear, some reports state that the event was held in 365 AD. On the other hand, there are others who agree that it was probably in 363 AD when the council convened.

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‘Colonnaded Street in Laodicea’

There were those who hoped that the 7th canon would provide a hint to settle the accurate date of the Council once and for all. For instance, it was during the 4th century that the great Bishop Photinus rose into prominence. There were more Eusebians during the synod held at Antioch (about 344 AD), as well as the Orthodox situated at Milan that condemned him. In 366, this bishop died out of banishment and condemnations.

To put it safely, it may be best to consider that the Synod of Laodicea met at about 343 to 381 years. It also took place over the years that the Sardican and Second Ecumenical Council were held. Moreover, people have come to terms with the minimal importance of knowing the accurate date of the council.

Key Facts about the Council of Laodicea

The Laodicea Council was referred to as a regional synod that was composed of 30 clerics all coming from Asia Minor. They all gathered in Laodicea, specifically in Phrygia Pacatiana from the year 363 to 364 AD. Moreover, the council commenced after the Roman and Persian War, which was waged by the last of the Constantinian emperor named Julian. He aimed to revive the practice of paganism in the empire while discriminating and punishing Christians.

According to researchers, the 59th canon put restrictions on the canonical books included in the Old and the New Testament. Then, the 60th cannon provided a list of all the books, where the New Testament consisted of 26 books, not including the Apocalypse or Book of Revelation. On the other hand, there were 22 books in the Old Testament, which was also made up of the 22 scriptures of the Hebrew version of the Bible. Also included in the Old Testament were the Epistle of Jeremy, as well as the Book of the prophet Baruch.

However, there were some doubts that circulated in terms of the 60th canon’s authenticity. The reason for this was the missing manuscripts that were added eventually to present the content of the books included in the 59th canon. Thus, Cyril provided a list that matched the one presented in the Laodicea Council, in 350 AD.

In the said council (which Cyril was a part of), a list was given to show all the books included in the Holy Scriptures. This list was not contradictory to the one provided by Eusebius. In fact, Eusebius suggested that there should be unity in terms of the accepted writings recognized by the Church. Thus, he was against the reading of scriptures that were not generally received to avoid confusion among the Christians who are exposed to these writings in the Bible.

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Constantine Converted to Christianity

Constantine was one of the greatest Roman emperors who led Rome during 306 to 337 AD where he is located on the Biblical Timeline Chart with World History. It was during his reign that Christianity became recognized as the Roman Empire’s primary religion. While historians are yet to have a solid evidence of Constantine’s decision of choosing Christianity and establishing it as the empire’s dominant religion, there were some doubts about the form of Early Christianity that Constantine favored. Moreover, several studies have proven that one of the possibilities that Constantine turned to Christianity was because of the influence of his mother towards him. However, Constantine was not baptized until a few years before he died.

Brief Information about the Life of Constantine

Constantine was born and raised at Naissus. His father, Flavius Constantius, was a renowned army officer who eventually divorced Constantine’s mother in 289 to marry Theodora. Driven to find his mission in life, Constantine decided to pursue a military career and travelled throughout the Roman Empire. During his crossing to the Alps, along with his army, he had a dream of a brilliant cross that was shining as it faced the sun. The cross bore the words “In this sign, conquer”. When he woke up from that dream, he decided to take it as a sign and guide throughout his journey. He was also able to defeat Maxentius, who was his rival at that time. Eventually, Constantine succeeded in conquering Rome, which led him to his victory as the empire’s new emperor.

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Constantine

Early Christianity at the Time of Constantine

During the rule of Constantine, the early years of Christianity were filled with perils and threats. For instance, believers encountered harsh persecution by the government. There was also the issue on Arian heresy or the denial of Christ’s divinity. However, God decided to raise up a mighty leader who would defend Christianity from its adversaries. Thus, Constantine was able to overcome these events that helped shape the Christian religion throughout time.

Constantine‘s Conversion to Christianity

One of the significant turning points in Early Christianity’s great history was Constantine’s conversion to the Christian religion. This event was also depicted as the “Triumph of the Church” or the “Constantinian Shift”. It was in 313 AD that Constantine, along with Licinius, legalized Christian worship. Constantine left a legacy that is visible in the transformation of Christianity from being a private sect to a recognized public church. He also set the religion on a firm institutional ground that turned the Church into one of the leading cultural forces affecting the ancient world. Sunday was chosen as the day of worship, and it was also made into a public holiday. However, there were no firm evidences as to whether it was Emperor Constantine who chose Sunday instead of Saturday as the day of worship for Christians. There were two documents written in the first century that expressed how the Christians worshipped during a different day from the Sabbath day by the Jewish. Nevertheless, one thing is definite – that it was Constantine who transformed this religion, which used to be considered as an illegal sect, into a widely recognized religion of the Romans.

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Anglo-Saxons and Britain Vandals in Spain (407 to 429 AD)

One group of people with Eastern Germanic heritage were called the Vandals. These people were originally from Jutland, and they settled in areas between the Vistula and Oder rivers during the first century AD where it is listed on the Biblical Timeline with World History. Based on historians, these people had wagons as their home, and they travelled from one pasture to another. When they remained in the Danube region, they provided troops and military reinforcements for the Romans. They also adopted Arianism or the heretical form of Christianity.

Key Facts about the Vandals and Anglo-Saxons

Tacitus first used the word Vandilii to describe this group of Germanic people that were from the ancestry of East Germans. During the Marcomannic War of 166 AD, these people decided to live in a place that is now referred to as Silesia. By the third century, or the time when the Roman Empire was experiencing great crisis due to invasions from its opponents, the Vandals joined forces with the Samaritans to conquer the frontier of the Roman Empire along the upper areas of the Rhine River.

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‘Reconstruction of a Germanic Iron Age warrior’s garments representing a Vandalic man’

The Anglo-Saxons, on the other hand, were people who remained in Great Britain since the fifth century. They also included a few other groups from Germanic tribes who stayed on the southern portion of the island along with their descendants.

The early parts of the Anglo-Saxon era included medieval Britain’s history from the end of the Roman’s reign. This period was also considered as the migration period because of massive human migration throughout Europe beginning 400 AD. These migrants included those with Germanic ancestry including the Anglos, Saxons, Suebi, Goths, Franks, and Lombards. However, these people were eventually defeated by the Slavs, Huns, Avars, Alans and Bulgars.

Vandals Joined Forces with Other Tribes

In 406, the Vandals decided to join forces with some of the freed slaves from Pannonia, as well as with a few other barbarian tribes. These people included some Goths, Suevi and nomadic Alans that bravely overcame the frozen Rhine into the Roman Gaul. Their reason for following this route was to save themselves from the attack of the Huns.

After these people have conquered France, they decided to remain in the southern part of Spain after crossing the Pyrenees. The Vandals also lived in the countryside, yet it left several towns with their native population. These people also seized the Roman ships, and they succeeded in piratical raids to the coasts of Greece and various parts of the Mediterranean.

Downfall of the Empire

By 409 AD, the Roman empire began to fall apart because of a lack of control from its emperor. It was at this time that some of Emperor Constantine’s army were in Spain, and that made it difficult for his army to reach Gaul quickly. Eventually, the Germans residing at the western part of the Rhine river revolted against him, and a number of invaders from the eastern portion of the river finally reached Gaul. At that time, Britain no longer had any form of protection or troops after it had succumbed to massive raids by the Saxons from 408 to 409 AD.

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Vulgate (The Latin Bible)

The Bible was first translated into Latin during the fourth century, and it was referred to as the Vulgate. It served as the masterpiece of St. Jerome, as per the recommendations of the Pope, Damasus the First, during the year 382 AD where it is listed on the Bible Timeline  Chart. He was assigned to revise the Vetus Latina or the Old Latin translations.

Jerome was quite fluent in the Greek language, and he was also versed in Hebrew at that time that he began the translation of the Holy Scripture. He worked on making corrections to the New Testament’s existing version in Latin.

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Vulgate(The_Latin_Bible)
Saint Jerome

Since then, the manuscript became widely adopted. During the 13th century, the Latin revision or the “Versio Vulgata”, this means a commonly-used translation. By the 16th century, this was recognized as the officially used version of the Roman Catholic Church.

Key Information about the Vulgate

Regarded as the Bible’s Latin translation, it was written by Eusebius Hieronymus (otherwise known as St. Jerome) during the latter part of the 4th century and the beginning of the 5th century. Jerome was taught by a wise rhetoric teacher named Aelius Donatus, who was also famous for his advocacy for punctuation. Aelius also authored Virgil’s biography.

When Jerome was appointed the Pope to write the four Gospels, the former used widely accepted Latin language version for the Holy Scripture. This resulted in the replacement of the other less-scholarly written works at that time. While he was merely instructed to carry out the translations on the New Testament (focused only on the Gospels), Jerome decided to take it further by translating a huge portion of the “Septuagint”. This referred to the translation from Hebrew into Greek. It also included several apocryphal works, which were not featured in the Hebrew version of the Bible.

Originally, the Gospels were expressed in the Greek language. This was largely because the language was widely spoken in the area ruled by the famed ruler, Alexander. It is also worth noting that there was a pan-Hellenic dialect that was popular during the Hellenistic era, which was Koine. The dialect was Vulgar Latin’s equivalent in Greek.

In fact, most Jews that resided in areas that were primarily made up of Jewish people spoke Koine Greek, as well. Eventually, the Hellenistic era paved the way for the Romans to gain dominance, although Koine Greek remained as the spoken dialect in the East. On the other hand, the western world spoke the Latin language.

Further Details about the Latin Bible

There are insufficient evidence of how much Jerome was able to translate the New Testament. However, the author decided to compare the existing Latin translations of the Holy Scripture with the Greek version. He observed that the Gospels were written in the Greek language, while the Old Testament was in Hebrew.

Jerome decided to complete the Latin translation after referring to the Septuagint. He also checked with the Hebrew version, and this allowed him to create a different version of the texts in the Old Testament. Jerome did not work on any translations for the Apocrypha, as well as beyond Judith and Tobit. These texts were translated from the Aramaic language.

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Eusebius, the Great Ecclesiastical

Eusebius, who is also referred to as Eusebius Pamphili or Eusebius of Caesarea, was a renowned Christian polemicist and historian. He also served as the bishop of the Caesarean centers during 314 AD where he is listed on the Bible Timeline with World History. However, his greatest contribution was when he wrote the Ecclesiastical History, which was one of the books he has produced.

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Eusebius

Interesting Facts about Eusebius

When Agapius completed his term as bishop of Caesarea, he was succeeded by Eusebius. This brilliant man took a special role during the Council of Nicaea, which was in 325 AD. Emperor Constantine considered Eusebius as a wise and noble man, and it was one of the reasons why the latter was chosen to present his own creed to the 318 attendees during the Council. One of Eusebius’ powerful opponents was Athanasius of Alexandria. At the synod held in Caesarea in 334, Athanasius was summoned to attend, but he refused to do so. During the year after that, he was requested to take part in the synod, in Tyre. It was in this event that Eusebius of Caesaria was tasked to preside. Athanasius was able to foresee the possible result of this situation, and he proceeded to Constantinople to speak about this matter to the emperor. Afterwards, Constantine summoned the bishops including Eusebius.

Following some deliberations, Athanasius was condemned, and he was put into exile in 335 AD. Since then, Eusebius gained the trust and favor of the emperor. He was also inspired to write about the life of the emperor shortly after his death in 337. Moreover, his work entitled “The Life of Constantine” became a significant historical masterpiece since it included numerous accounts from actual witnesses and primary sources that strengthened the credibility of his work.

About the Church History

Eusebius, the Roman bishop of Caesarea, wrote the Church History during the fourth century. This served as his brilliant masterpiece, which chronicled the development and progress of early Christianity during the first to the fourth century. Originally, the text was written in Koine Greek, yet it was eventually translated into Armenian, Syriac and Latin. This fine work by Eusebius was depicted as the very first and full-length narrative that was historical in nature and expressed the viewpoint of a Christian. Also, the text was continued by Sozomen and Socrates Scholasticus, who were the two great advocates of this masterpiece in Constantinople.

Along with Theodoret of Cyrrhus, a bishop, they continued this exceptional work written by Eusebius. It is worth noting that the chronicle written by Eusebius was intended to give a layout of a comparative timeline featuring the Old Testament and pagan history. It included a few other historiographical genres and universal history. This great masterpiece served historical importance, although the author did not have any intentions of making this text a vindication of Christianity as a religion. Nevertheless, the eloquence and wisdom that the author exuded in completing this text has turned it into one of the finest works in the history of the Catholic Church.

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Rome and the Great Fire of 64 AD

On the night of July 18 64 AD (where it is listed on the Biblical Timeline Chart with World History) a fire erupted in the commercial section in Rome. The wind was strong then, and the blaze rapidly broadened all over the dried out, wooden buildings of the city. It grew increasingly more out of control and raged a devastating destruction for 6 days. By the time the fire was extinguished, 70% of the city was gone.

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‘The Torches of Nero, by Henryk Siemiradzki. According to Tacitus, Nero targeted Christians as those responsible for the fire.’

The historian Tacitus was present when the tragedy occurred. His has written about the occasion and is quoted as follows: “Now started the most terrible and destructive fire that Rome had ever experienced. It began in the Circus, where it adjoins the Palatine and Caelian hills. Breaking out in shops selling inflammable goods, and fanned by the wind, the conflagration instantly grew and swept the whole length of the Circus. There were no walled mansions or temples, or any other obstructions, which could arrest it. First the fire swept violently over the level spaces. Then it climbed the hills – but returned to ravage the lower ground again. It outstripped every counter-measure.

The ancient city’s narrow winding streets, and irregular blocks encouraged its progress. Terrified, shrieking women, helpless old and young, people intent on their own safety, people unselfishly supporting invalids or waiting for them, fugitives and lingerers alike – all heightened the confusion. When people looked back, menacing flames sprang up before t hem or outflanked them. When they escaped to a neighboring quarter, the fire followed – even districts believed remote proved to be involved. Finally, with no idea where or what to flee, they crowded on to the country roads or lay in the fields. Some who had lost everything – even their food for the day – could have escaped, but preferred to die. So did others, who had failed to rescue their loved ones. Nobody dared fight the flames. Attempts to do so were prevented by menacing gangs. Torches, too, were openly thrown in, by men crying that they acted under orders. Perhaps they had received orders. Or they may have just wanted to plunder unhampered.

Nero was at Antium. He returned to the city only when the fire was approaching the mansion he had built to link the Gardens of Maecenas to the Palatine. The flames could not be prevented from overwhelming the whole of the Palatine, including his palace. Nevertheless, for the relief of the homeless, fugitive masses he threw open the field of Mars, including Agrippa’s public buildings, and even his own Gardens. Nero also constructed emergency accommodation for the destitute multitude. The food was brought from Ostia and neighboring towns, and the price of corn was cut to less than ¼ sesterce a pound. These measures, for all their popular character, earned no gratitude. For a rumor had spread that, while the city was burning, Nero had gone on his private stage and, comparing modern calamities with ancient, had sung of the destruction of Troy.”

Scapegoat

To quell those accusing Nero of the fire, the emperor turned on the Christians for blame to appease the devastated citizens. He took the people he could accuse and gave them to the lions at huge gatherings in what was left of Rome’s Arena.

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Roman Egypt

Egypt under Roman Control

Roman control in Egypt historically occurred after the coming of Octavian (Augustus) during 30 BC it is listed on the Biblical Timeline with World History under 1-250 AD with World History. This was after his victorious battle with Marc Antony and Cleopatra in Actium.

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‘Temple of Denderah. Back wall where can be seen: Cleopatra and her son, Cesarion Image taken by Alex Lbh in April 2005.’

Augustus then proclaimed himself to the Egyptians as successor and Pharaoh. He abolished the Ptolemaic monarchy and declared the realm as his own. Then he announced a temporary ‘prefect’ or ‘governor’ that efficiently took politics out of the area; thus neutralising competitions to take over amidst the influential citizens of Rome.

For nearly 12 years, Egypt was maintained by Rome’s armies till the country was stabilised. Everything was done in line with the laws and stages of Rome’s laws. The structure of the government was remade to acknowledge the rights linked with ‘Greek’ history. This was an incredible addition to the Roman Empire and proved a great asset to the country. There was an abundance of farming with shipments of grain to Rome. Egypt made papyrus, glass, and varied delicately made crafts. The deserts held many different kinds of raw materials such as ore, porphyry, and granite.  Business with central Africa, the Arabian Peninsular, and India thrived down the Nile, desert, and sea routes from the Red Sea port of Berenike. Valuables and cultural traditions spread from Egypt to Rome by Alexandria, a place Diodorus of Sicily spoke of as “the first city of the civilised world”. It’s amazing library and society of authors, philosophers, and scientists were recognised all over.

One of the first major problems the Roman Empire came across was the contentions between the Greeks and Jews during the rule of Caligula ( reigned 34-41). There was also the Jewish rebellions under Trajan (reigned 98-117), and the people’s rebellions in Coptos during 293 AD. Christianity was brought to Egypt during the first century AD from Saint Mark, who was martyred afterwards by the Alexandrians in 67 AD. Ever After the Christian missionaries started working and the vast church of Alexandria was created and is still present today.

Persecution

Surprisingly the Christian belief spread very quickly to the point that most of Egypt was converted by the end of the 3rd Century AD. They were categorised along with Jews as a cult. This lasted till the Christians grew in number and acquired a distinctive position. Their place was increased after they rejected the culture to offer sacrifices to the Romans’ pagan gods. In addition, they opposed Roman teachings, particularly towards those policies that counteracted their beliefs. This was thought of by the Romans as dangerous for the safety and unifications of the empire. Resulting in the great persecutions and intensifying towards the largest recorded maltreatment towards Christians at the time.

It was prepared and enacted in violent order especially by rulers Septimus Severus (193-211), Maximinus I (235-238), and Decius (249-251). The climax of these terrible events occurred under Diocletian (284-306). His reign was labelled ‘The Martyrdom Era’ by today’s Christian-Egyptians (Copts). Romans had displayed harsh actions towards them with well-developed tools intended for only that. Torture became a common violence towards Christians such as lashing, sloughing, stoning, tearing off organs, pulling out eyes and so forth.  At first, the Romans were attempting to persuade the Christians that the Roman faiths (especially the ones contrary to Christians) were right. If unsuccessful they would then implement torture and eventually killed them.

However, their actions had a reverse effect, spreading Christians and enacting more conversions. The standard Christian attitude was to stand their grand, proclaim their beliefs and ask to be martyred. This was an ideal that many were, in fact, hoping for. There was even a time in the Roman Empire that regular society was obligated to bear an official document proving that they believed in the Roman traditions and offered sacrifices on a regular basis to the pagan gods. This violent attitude against Christians was followed by harsh deconstructive standards against the Coptics. Religious books were burnt, along with sacred scripts, liturgies, and churches; really any item or place that had a connection to that faith. This continued until the open-minded rule of Constantine the Great (306-337); a ruler who at last acknowledged Christians as the official religion of the kingdom.

Coptic

At the time of the Roman Rule, an altered language was adapting into the Egyptian manner called the Coptic language. “Copt” was from the Greek word “Aigyptos” which stands for Egyptian. The root of the language is not dated but looks to have started in the 2nd Century AD. It is taken from the historical Egyptian language and is thought of as its last phase. Coptic adds onto the Greek alphabet with 7 demotic letters taken from the writings basically a simpler take on hieroglyphics.

This manner of speaking lasted for a long time until the arrival of the Arab conquest during the 7th Century. Afterwards, the Arabic language slowly took over. Despite this, the Coptic language made it through until current time to be used by the Coptic Church in ‘liturgies’. The growth of the Coptic language added in literature into Egypt’s infamous past. Along with Egypt’s contributions to society’s culture, they also pioneered the world into Christianity.  They were the ones to start today’s ‘monasticism’. It began when Rome was discriminating any believer of the Christian way of life. The first to enter Monasticism was Saint Anthony (251-356). He abandoned his riches and left for the desert in search of religious freedom despite the threat of barbers who just like the Roman’s promised certain death. He pioneered the religion into ‘asceticism’ and created an order that provided monks with a self-governing culture. Saint Pachomious (292-346) created the cenobitic monasticism. He made the first policies for their gatherings and started many monasteries for both men and women. Along with the ascension of Constantine Pachomious, these events led to a period where the Mediterranean was labelled under the Byzantine Era, a branch of the Roman Rule but with varied qualities.