DECAPOLIS
Origin and Locations
The Decapolis, derived from the Greek ‘Dekápolis’ meaning “Ten Cities,” was a group of ten Hellenistic cities situated on the eastern frontier of the Roman Empire in the Southern Levant during the first centuries BC and AD. These cities were primarily located east of the Jordan River, in what is now modern-day Jordan, Israel, and Syria. The Decapolis served as a hub of Greek and Roman culture amidst a predominantly Semitic region, which included Jewish, Nabataean, and Aramean populations.
The cities of the Decapolis were established during the Hellenistic period, following the death of Alexander the Great in 323 BC. Many of these cities were founded by Greek settler-soldiers from the Ptolemaic and Seleucid kingdoms, successors to Alexander’s empire. The Decapolis was officially formed after the Roman general Pompey conquered the region in 63 BC, granting these cities a degree of autonomy under Roman protection.
The ten cities traditionally associated with the Decapolis are:
– Scythopolis (modern-day Beit She’an, Israel)
– Hippos (Sussita, near the Sea of Galilee)
– Gadara (Umm Qais, Jordan)
– Pella (Tabaqat Fahl, Jordan)
– Philadelphia (modern-day Amman, Jordan)
– Gerasa (Jerash, Jordan)
– Dion (location uncertain)
– Canatha (Qanawat, Syria)
– Raphana (location uncertain)
– Damascus (Syria), although its inclusion is sometimes debated.
Biblical Significance
The Decapolis holds particular significance in the New Testament, where it is mentioned several times. Jesus visited this region during His ministry, performing miracles such as healing a demon-possessed man in the area of the Gadarenes (Mt 8:28-34; Mk 5:1-20) and healing a deaf and mute man (Mk 7:31-37). The presence of Gentile populations in the Decapolis, as opposed to predominantly Jewish areas, is highlighted by events such as the herd of swine into which Jesus cast demons, an act significant because pigs were considered unclean in Jewish law.
The New Testament references to the Decapolis include:
– Matthew 4:25: “Great crowds from Galilee, the Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea, and from beyond the Jordan followed him.”
– Mark 5:20: “And he went away and began to proclaim in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him; and everyone was amazed.”
– Mark 7:31: “Then he returned from the region of Tyre, and went by way of Sidon towards the Sea of Galilee, in the region of the Decapolis.”
These passages highlight the widespread influence of Jesus’ ministry and His reach beyond the primarily Jewish regions into Gentile territories.
Present State
Today, the cities of Decapolis are significant archaeological sites that provide insights into the Hellenistic and Roman periods in the region. Many of these sites, such as Jerash in Jordan and Beit She’an in Israel, are well-preserved and attract tourists and scholars interested in ancient history and archaeology. These cities continue to reflect the rich cultural and historical tapestry of the region.
– Jerash: Known for its well-preserved Roman architecture, including temples, theaters, and colonnaded streets.
– Beit She’an: Features extensive excavations revealing its ancient history, including a Roman amphitheater and Byzantine mosaics.
– Amman: The modern capital of Jordan, which still contains ruins from its ancient past, such as the Roman theater.
REFLECTION
The Decapolis represents a confluence of cultures and beliefs, much like the diverse world we live in today. For Christians, the interactions of Jesus with the people of the Decapolis offer profound lessons. His willingness to engage with those outside the Jewish faith demonstrates the inclusive nature of His message and mission. Jesus’ ministry in the Decapolis underscores the importance of reaching out beyond our comfort zones to share love and compassion with all, regardless of cultural or religious differences.
As Christians, we are called to embrace diversity and extend grace and understanding to those who may not share our beliefs. The story of Decapolis encourages us to break down barriers and build bridges of faith, hope, and love in our communities and beyond.