Numenius
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Numenius in the Bible?
Numenius served as an ambassador for Jonathan Apphus and later Simon Maccabaeus, traveling to Rome to secure and renew treaties that affirmed Jewish autonomy and friendship with the Roman Republic.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Numenius's diplomatic missions clarifies the political context of 1 Maccabees, illustrating how the Hasmonean leaders leveraged Roman power to legitimize their rule and secure religious freedom against Seleucid oppression.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Numenius reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Numenius in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Numenius 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
"Numenius." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/numenius/