Aelia
LocationsGeographical Setting
Aelia Capitolina was the Roman colony established on the site of Jerusalem following the Bar Kokhba revolt.
What is the meaning of Aelia in the Bible?
In 135 AD, Emperor Hadrian rebuilt Jerusalem as a Roman colony named Aelia Capitolina, integrating it into the provincial administration of Syria Palaestina.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Aelia Capitolina clarifies the historical context of the New Testament era, showing the transition from Jewish to Roman governance and the physical changes to the city that influenced early Christian narratives.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Aelia (located near modern Jerusalem, Israel) held strategic importance. Understanding its position and trade routes explains why key biblical events unfolded here.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Aelia in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Aelia clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Aelia." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/aelia/