Theodotus
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Theodotus in the Bible?
Theodotos served as one of three ambassadors dispatched by the Seleucid general Nicanor to negotiate peace with the Maccabean leader Judas Maccabeus, and he was also implicated in a conspiracy to assassinate Ptolemy VI Philopator.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Theodotos clarifies the political maneuvering within the Ptolemaic and Seleucid courts, illustrating how Jewish leaders navigated complex diplomatic relationships with foreign powers during the Maccabean revolt.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Theodotus reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Theodotus in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Theodotus 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
"Theodotus." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/theodotus/