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Timotheus

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What is the meaning of Timotheus in the Bible?

A general of the Seleucid Empire who fought against the Maccabean revolt, specifically engaging with Judas Maccabeus and being defeated at Gazara as recorded in 2 Maccabees.

SIGNIFICANCE

Understanding Timotheus clarifies the geopolitical tensions and military campaigns described in the Maccabean narratives, illustrating the external threats faced by the Jewish community during the struggle for autonomy.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Timotheus reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
  • Why did the biblical author mention Timotheus in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Timotheus 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

"Timotheus." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/timotheus/
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