The Ten Minute Bible Hour Podcast PLMN026 - Pergamemnon and Then We're Home
Nov 24, 2025
Explore the rich history of Pergamemnon and the Attalid dynasty in northwest Turkey. Learn how the Attalids emerged from the fallout of Alexander's conquests and their strategic alliance with Rome. Delve into the impact of the Roman-Seleucid Wars and how these events shifted regional power dynamics. Discover the ambiguous borders of Colossae and Pergamum, culminating in Rome's final control. This historical backdrop sets the stage for understanding Philemon's context, enhancing your grasp of the era's complexities.
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Attalid Rise And Roman Absorption
- The Attalid dynasty (Pergamemnon) carved a Greek kingdom in northwest Asia Minor between bigger Hellenistic powers and Rome.
- Their alliance with Rome and regional instability let Rome absorb their territory into the Roman sphere by ~130 BC.
Seleucid Decline Created A Power Vacuum
- The Seleucid weakening via wars and revolts left a power vacuum in Asia Minor that the Attalids and Rome exploited.
- Combined conflicts like the Roman-Seleucid war and the Maccabean Revolt hollowed out Seleucid control over the region.
Rome Becomes The Final Ruler Over Colossae
- By the late 100s BC Pergamemnon was effectively absorbed into Rome and its flag was replaced by Roman rule around 130 BC.
- Rome remained the final major power over Colossae into the era when Philemon was written.