Persecution
Culture & SocietyWhat is the meaning of Persecution in the Bible?
Persecution denotes the systematic mistreatment of an individual or group based on religious or political beliefs. In the biblical narrative, early instances include state-sponsored efforts to replace the worship of Yahweh with Baal during the reign of King Ahab.
SIGNIFICANCE
Analyzing these conflicts reveals the tension between centralized royal authority and traditional religious practices in ancient Israel, providing critical context for the narrative struggles found in the Books of Kings.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Ancient Cultural Lens: Avoid applying 21st-century Western assumptions to Persecution. Examine how first-century or Near Eastern listeners understood this practice within their daily social dynamics.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Persecution in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Persecution 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
"Persecution." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/persecution/