The City Of Alexandria

The city of Alexandria, founded by Alexander the Great in 331 B.C., stands as a testament to the ambition and vision of one of history’s greatest conquerors. Nestled at the west extremity of the Delta, its strategic location at the gateway to the Nile made it a jewel in Alexander’s expanding empire.

The Vision of Alexander:

In 331 B.C., during his journey to visit the Oracle of Amun, Alexander the Great arrived at the isle of Pharos, where the village of Rhacotis stood. Recognizing the strategic potential of the location, Alexander decided to erect a magnificent city that would bear his name. With the expertise of Deinocrates, a renowned architect famed for his work on the Temple of Diana, Alexander’s vision began to take shape.

The Birth of a City:

Under the skilled guidance of Deinocrates, Alexandria emerged from the sands of Egypt like a dream. Its layout, characterized by straight, parallel streets, was a marvel of urban planning. Stretching approximately fifteen miles in circumference, the city resembled a Macedonian cloak when viewed from above—a fitting homage to Alexander’s heritage.

Architectural Grandeur:

Alexandria’s skyline boasted fortresses, monuments, palaces, and government buildings, each meticulously crafted according to a perfect artistic plan. Among its architectural wonders was a colossal mole that connected the island of Pharos to the mainland, creating a double harbor—the envy of Egypt.

Legacy and Influence:

Beyond its physical grandeur, Alexandria held immense cultural significance. As a center of learning and commerce, it attracted scholars, philosophers, and traders from across the ancient world. The renowned Library of Alexandria, with its vast collection of scrolls and manuscripts, symbolized the city’s intellectual prowess and enduring legacy.

Etymology

In Hebrew:

אלכסנדריה ( Alexandria ): This is the Hebrew transliteration of the city’s name, often used in modern Hebrew.

In Greek:

Αλεξάνδρεια (Alexandria): The Greek name for the city, reflecting its foundation by Alexander the Great.

αλέξω (alexó): This Greek verb means “to defend” or “to protect,” possibly indicating the city’s strategic significance and the protection it offered to its inhabitants.

άνηρ (aner): The Greek word for “man” or “male,” which could symbolize the strength and vitality associated with the city.

Biblical Connections

While Alexandria’s prominence is well-documented in historical records, biblical references also shed light on its significance. The city’s role in early Christianity, including its association with figures like Saint Mark and the translation of the Septuagint, underscores its pivotal place in religious history.

Association with Saint Mark:

Tradition holds that Saint Mark, one of the four Evangelists who authored the Gospel of Mark, played a significant role in the early Christian community of Alexandria. While the New Testament itself doesn’t explicitly mention Mark’s presence in Alexandria, ancient Christian tradition, including writings by early church fathers like Eusebius and Jerome, suggests that Mark may have traveled to Alexandria to spread the message of Christianity. His association with the city is particularly significant in Christian hagiography and the development of the Coptic Orthodox Church in Egypt.

Translation of the Septuagint:

The Septuagint, a Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, holds immense importance in biblical scholarship and early Christian history. According to tradition, the Septuagint was translated by seventy Jewish scholars in Alexandria during the reign of Ptolemy II Philadelphus in the 3rd century B.C. This translation facilitated the spread of Jewish religious texts among Greek-speaking communities and paved the way for the use of the Old Testament in early Christian writings. The existence of a Jewish community in Alexandria, coupled with the city’s status as a cultural and intellectual hub, made it an ideal location for such a significant translation project.

Alexandria’s Influence on the Bible

(1) The Ptolomies of Alexandria and their wives are made a theme of prophecy. Apollos, the “orator,” was born in Alexandria.

24 Meanwhile a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was a learned man, with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures. 25He had been instructed in the way of the Lord, and he spoke with great fervor[a] and taught about Jesus accurately, though he knew only the baptism of John. 26He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately. 27When Apollos wanted to go to Achaia, the brothers and sisters encouraged him and wrote to the disciples there to welcome him. When he arrived, he was a great help to those who by grace had believed. 28 For he vigorously refuted his Jewish opponents in public debate, proving from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Messiah. (Acts 18:24)

Luke twice speaks of himself and Paul sailing in “a ship of Alexandria”

6 There the centurion found an Alexandrian ship sailing for Italy and put us on board. (Acts 27:6)
11 After three months we put out to sea in a ship that had wintered in the island—it was an Alexandrian ship with the figurehead of the twin gods Castor and Pollux. ( Acts 28:11 )

Stephen `disputed’ in Jerusalem in the synagogue of the Alexandrians

9 Opposition arose, however, from members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called)—Jews of Cyrene and Alexandria as well as the provinces of Cilicia and Asia—who began to argue with Stephen. (Acts 6:9)

These direct references are few, but the influence of Alexandria on the Bible was inestimable.

(2) The Septuagint, translated in Alexandria (3rd to 2nd centuries B.C.), preserves a Hebrew text 1,000 years older than any now known. This translation if not used by Jesus was certainly used by Paul and other New Testament writers, as shown by their quotations. It is Egyptian even in trifles. This Greek Bible not only opened for the first time the “Divine Oracles” to the Gentiles and thus gave to the Old Testament an international influence, but it affected most vitally the Hebrew and Christian development.

(3) The Alexandrinus Codex (4th to 5th centuries) was the first of all the great uncials to come into the hands of modern scholars. It was obtained in Alexandria and sent as a present to the king of England (1628) by Cyrellus Lucaris, the Patriarch of Constantinople. The Sinaiticus and Vaticanus uncials with many other most important Bible manuscripts-Hebrew, Greek, Coptic and Syriac-came from Alexandria.

(4) John and several other New Testament writings have justly been regarded as showing the influence of this philosophic city. Neither the phraseology nor conceptions of the Fourth Gospel could have been grasped in a world that Alexandria had not taught. Pfleiderer’s statement that He “may be termed the most finished treatise of the Alexandria philosophy” may be doubted, but no one can doubt the fact of Alexandrian influence on the New Testament.

Alexandria: A Beacon of Prosperity and Commerce

As Alexander the Great’s vision for Alexandria began to take shape in 331 B.C., little could he have foreseen the city’s meteoric rise to become the commercial metropolis of the ancient world. This article delves into Alexandria’s golden age under the patronage of the first two Ptolemies and Euergetes, exploring its unparalleled prosperity and pivotal role in global trade, with insights drawn from historical accounts and ancient records.

The Legacy of Alexander:

Before his passing in 323 B.C., Alexander the Great ensured the future of Alexandria as a hub of commerce and culture. His foresight and ambition laid the foundation for the city’s unparalleled growth and prosperity in the centuries to come.

The Mausoleum of the Conqueror:

Following Alexander’s death, his golden casket found its resting place in a fitting mausoleum in Alexandria, symbolizing the city’s enduring connection to its illustrious founder. This monument served as a testament to the greatness of the conqueror and a reminder of Alexandria’s pivotal role in his empire.

The Age of the Ptolemies:

Under the protection and patronage of the first two Ptolemaic rulers, Alexandria flourished as never before. The city’s strategic location at the crossroads of trade routes, coupled with its efficient harbor facilities, made it a magnet for merchants and traders from across the known world.

Prosperity Through Trade:

Alexandria’s prosperity knew no bounds as it served as the gateway to the riches of the East and the West. Through Lake Mareotis, the city received the bounty of Upper Egypt, while its access to the Great Sea facilitated trade with the Mediterranean world. Meanwhile, the Red Sea provided a direct route to the treasures of India and Arabia, enriching the Alexandria docks with exotic goods and commodities.

Cultural Exchange and Innovation:

Beyond its economic significance, Alexandria thrived as a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and innovations. The famed Library of Alexandria, with its vast collection of scrolls and manuscripts, attracted scholars and intellectuals from far and wide, fostering a spirit of intellectual curiosity and exploration that reverberated throughout the ancient world.

Alexandria: Tracing the Footsteps of an Ancient Metropolis

Once the jewel of the ancient world, Alexandria’s illustrious past now lies submerged beneath the waves or hidden beneath layers of modern construction. This article retraces the remnants of Alexandria’s glory days, from the towering Pompey’s Pillar to the recent archaeological discoveries that offer glimpses into its rich history. Drawing from accounts by early explorers and recent excavations, we delve into the rise, fall, and resurgence of this legendary city.

The Echoes of Antiquity:

Amidst the bustling modernity of present-day Alexandria, traces of its ancient splendor still linger. Pompey’s Pillar, a towering testament to the city’s past, stands as a solitary sentinel, dating back to the reign of Diocletian. Yet, beyond this lone relic, much of Alexandria’s former grandeur lies entombed beneath the sea or obscured by centuries of development.

Discoveries Beneath the Surface:

Despite limited success, archaeological endeavors by both English and German scholars in the late 19th and early 20th centuries have unearthed tantalizing glimpses of Alexandria’s past. Dr. G. Botti’s discoveries of the Serapeum and vast catacombs, along with recent findings of exquisite sphinxes in 1907, offer a tantalizing glimpse into the city’s ancient landscape.

A City of Magnitude:

In its prime, Alexandria boasted a population of 600,000 to 800,000 inhabitants, making it one of the largest and most prosperous cities of the ancient world. Yet, the passage of time and shifting fortunes saw its population dwindle to a mere fraction by the 18th century. However, recent decades have witnessed a resurgence, with Alexandria reclaiming some semblance of its former importance under the rule of the khedives.

Modern Revival

Today, Alexandria stands as a vibrant metropolis, a blend of ancient heritage and modern vitality. With a population of 320,000, including a sizable European contingent, the city continues to evolve and thrive in the 21st century. Its storied past and resilient spirit serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of this oncegreat city.

The Jews of Alexandria: A Tale of Diversity and Influence

In the vibrant tapestry of ancient Alexandria, the Jewish community occupied a unique and influential position. This article explores the rich history of the Jews in Alexandria, from their special privileges under the Ptolemies to their enduring legacy as scholars, merchants, and civic leaders. Drawing from historical accounts and ancient sources, we uncover the complex dynamics that shaped their lives in this cosmopolitan city.

A Vision of Unity:

In the grand design of Alexander the Great’s empire, Alexandria emerged as a beacon of multiculturalism and tolerance. Under his vision, Europeans, Asiatics, and Africans coexisted as harmonious units, enjoying a common citizenship that transcended cultural and ethnic boundaries. This inclusive ethos laid the groundwork for the diverse tapestry of Alexandria’s population.

Special Privileges:

The Jews of Alexandria enjoyed special privileges, granted by the Ptolemies in adherence to their policy of multiculturalism. While they may not have possessed full civic rights, their influence far exceeded that of any other Jewish community in the ancient world. To mitigate potential conflicts, separate districts were allocated for Jews, Greeks, and native Egyptians, each with its own distinct character and governance.

Flourishing Community:

Within their designated district, the Jews of Alexandria thrived. Synagogues dotted the landscape, serving as centers of worship, community gathering, and even offering asylum to those in need. The Jewish community wielded significant economic, political, and social influence, with members holding high public office and commanding respect for their wealth, education, and social standing.

Times of Persecution:

Despite their prominence, the Jews of Alexandria faced periods of persecution, particularly with the rise of Christianity as the state religion of Egypt. Massacres and discrimination marred their history, culminating in the persecution under Heraclius following his victory over the Persians. Yet, amidst these challenges, the Jewish community persevered, leaving an indelible mark on the city’s cultural and intellectual landscape.

Legacy and Influence:

The influence of the Jews in Alexandria extended far beyond the confines of their community. Wisdom and influential writings originated in Alexandria, shaping the intellectual discourse of the ancient world. The teachings and insights cultivated in this cosmopolitan melting pot laid the groundwork for the reception of a universal gospel, heralded by Hebrews from the Hellenized region of Galilee.

Alexandria: Cradle of Civilization and Beacon of Learning

With the founding of the University of Alexandria, a new epoch dawned in the annals of human civilization. Modeled after the great schools of Athens yet surpassing them in scope and ambition, Alexandria emerged as a beacon of progress and enlightenment. The profound influence of Alexandria on culture, science, literature, and the arts, tracing its legacy from the illustrious halls of its university to the far-reaching impact of its scholars and innovators.

The University of Alexandria: A Center of Excellence:

The University of Alexandria stands as a testament to human ingenuity and intellectual curiosity. Endowed with ample resources and facilities for original research, it became a melting pot of scientific inquiry, literary exploration, and artistic expression. Its famous library, housing hundreds of thousands of books and rolls, served as a treasure trove of knowledge, while its scholars, housed within the Museum, pursued groundbreaking discoveries in mathematics, astronomy, medicine, and the arts.

Scientific Advancements and Innovations:

Under the auspices of the University of Alexandria, scientific inquiry flourished like never before. From Euclid’s Elements of Geometry to Archimedes’ revolutionary discoveries in hydrostatics and hydraulics, the city became a crucible of innovation and discovery. Eratosthenes’ calculations of the earth’s size and Ptolemy’s groundbreaking theories on the stellar universe revolutionized our understanding of the natural world, laying the groundwork for centuries of scientific inquiry.

Literary and Artistic Flourishing:

Alongside its scientific achievements, Alexandria nurtured a vibrant literary and artistic culture. While originality may not have been its hallmark, the city’s influence on literature, particularly during the Augustan Age, was profound. Scholars and scribes painstakingly copied and translated manuscripts, ensuring the preservation and dissemination of classical texts for generations to come. The city’s artistic legacy, evident in Pompeii and beyond, bears witness to the skill and creativity of its painters, architects, and craftsmen.

Cultural Exchange and Translation:

The University of Alexandria served as a crucible of cultural exchange, attracting scholars and texts from across the ancient world. Under the patronage of Ptolemy Philadelphus, the translation of the Old Testament into Greek, as recounted by Josephus, exemplifies the city’s commitment to intellectual inquiry and crosscultural dialogue. Through its libraries and scholarly pursuits, Alexandria became a hub of learning and enlightenment, shaping the course of human civilization for centuries to come.

Alexandria: Cradle of Philosophical Enlightenment

In the annals of philosophical history, Alexandria stands as a beacon of enlightenment and contemplation. From the 3rd century B.C. to the 6th century A.D., the city served as the epicenter of philosophical inquiry, giving rise to NeoPythagoreanism and Neo-Platonism. This article explores the profound influence of Alexandria on philosophical thought, tracing its impact on religious concepts, Jewish literature, and the emergence of universal religious ideals.

Neo-Pythagoreanism: A Return to the Ancient Wisdom:

In the fertile intellectual soil of Alexandria, Neo-Pythagoreanism took root, reviving the teachings of Pythagoras and his disciples. Embracing a mystical and contemplative approach, Neo-Pythagoreanism offered a spiritual antidote to the materialism of Stoic philosophy, laying the groundwork for deeper metaphysical inquiry and religious reflection.

Neo-Platonism: Bridging East and West:

The pinnacle of Alexandrian philosophy, Neo-Platonism emerged as a synthesis of Aryan speculations and Semitic concepts, blending the profound insights of Plato with the mystical traditions of the East. In Neo-Platonism, Greece and the Old Testament found common ground in their acknowledgment of the Divine Unity, paving the way for a universal religious vision that transcended cultural and religious boundaries.

Philosophical Foundations of Religious Thought:

The influence of Neo-Platonism extended far beyond the realm of philosophy, shaping the religious thought of both Sadducees and Pharisees. Late pre-Christian Jewish literature bears the imprint of Alexandrian philosophy, reflecting its profound insights into the nature of matter and spirit, good and evil, and the human quest for union with the Divine.

The Legacy of Neo-Platonism:

While Neo-Platonism offered profound insights into the human condition and the nature of reality, its ultimate message was one of transcendence rather than reconciliation. Despite its limitations, Neo-Platonism laid the groundwork for the emergence of Christian theology, serving as a precursor to mysticism and spiritual piety. While later developments saw it become an adverse force, its early influence remained favorable to the deepest, purest elements of spiritual religion.

The Christian Church in Alexandria: From Martyrdom to Resurgence

The Christian church in Alexandria traces its roots back to the apostolic era, with tradition holding that Mark the Evangelist carried the gospel to the city. Through periods of martyrdom, theological controversies, and cultural shifts, the church has remained a testament to faith and endurance.

Early Persecution and Martyrdom:

From the first serious persecution under Decius to the savage onslaughts under Diocletian, the Christian community in Alexandria endured relentless persecution by pagan authorities. The native Coptic church, deeply rooted in Egyptian soil, emerged from the ashes of persecution, marking its era from the Diocletianic persecution as a symbol of resilience and faith.

Theological Controversies and Ecclesiastical Influence:

Throughout the 4th century, Alexandria served as a theological and ecclesiastical center of Christendom, hosting ten councils that shaped Christian doctrine and practice. Yet, amidst theological debates and doctrinal controversies, the church grappled with internal strife and external threats, including the destruction of pagan temples and the suppression of idolatry under Theodosius.

Martyrdom of Hypatia and Ethical Challenges:

The martyrdom of Hypatia, a renowned philosopher and scholar, serves as a haunting reminder of the dark side of religious zealotry. Despite the efforts of Christian leaders to curb such atrocities, the Egyptian Christians were known for their excitability and intolerance, often resorting to violence against perceived heretics while remaining steadfast in their theological convictions.

Resurgence and Diversity in the Modern Era:

Following the Arab conquest of Alexandria, the Coptic church experienced a period of relative peace and prosperity, gaining converts even from the Muslim population. However, the subsequent displacement of native culture and religion by the Saracenic civilization marked a decline in the church’s influence. Yet, in the modern era, Alexandria has once again emerged as a Christian metropolis, embracing diversity and tolerance among Coptics, Romans, Greeks, Armenians, Maronites, Syrians, Chaldeans, and Protestants.

Legacy and Influence:

Despite centuries of upheaval and decline, the Christian church in Alexandria has left an indelible mark on culture, theology, and religious practice. Its early influence can still be seen in Christian art, architecture, and ritual, as well as in the encouragement of asceticism and image-reverence. Today, as Alexandria embraces its Christian heritage amidst a multicultural landscape, the church remains a beacon of faith and resilience in a changing world.