Biblical Time Machine Why the Bible Loves Cyrus the Great
May 19, 2025
Join Lloyd Llewelyn-Jones, a Professor of Ancient History at Cardiff University, as he unpacks the fascinating legacy of Cyrus the Great, founder of the Persian Empire. Delve into how Cyrus is uniquely referred to as God's 'anointed one' in the Hebrew Bible. The conversation reveals the duality of his image as both liberator and conqueror, explores his impact on Jewish identity and theology, and examines the complexities surrounding the famous Cyrus Cylinder. Are we witnessing a historical hero or an ancient propaganda masterpiece?
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Cyrus's Rise to Power
- Cyrus II united Persian tribes to defeat the Medes and rapidly created a vast empire.
- His conquest of Sardis shocked the ancient Greek world and marked the rise of Persian imperialism.
Persian Military Superiority
- Persian armies were formidable due to their expert horseback archery and mobile tactics.
- This tactical innovation allowed swift and overwhelming attacks unlike traditional infantry combat.
Cyrus as God's Anointed
- The Hebrew Bible uniquely calls Cyrus the Great God's 'anointed' or 'messiah,' the only non-Jew with this title.
- Isaiah's text closely mirrors Cyrus's own Babylonian propaganda, showing Persian spin integrated into scripture.
