Gorgias
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Gorgias in the Bible?
Gorgias was a Seleucid military commander who led campaigns against Jewish rebels, notably launching a surprise night attack on the camp of Judas Maccabeus at Emmaus and later defeating the forces of Joseph and Azarias.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Gorgias provides insight into the military strategies employed by the Seleucid Empire to suppress the Maccabean Revolt, highlighting the specific tactical challenges faced by the Jewish resistance as depicted in the historical narratives of 1 and 2 Maccabees.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Gorgias reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Gorgias in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Gorgias 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
"Gorgias." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/gorgias/