Pergamum
Pergamum is an ancient city mentioned in the New Testament, located in the region of Asia Minor in modern-day Turkey. Known today as Pergamon. It appears across 2 verses in Scripture.
Biblical History
Pergamum appears in the New Testament as one of the seven churches addressed by Christ in the book of Revelation. In Revelation 1:11, John is instructed to write to the seven churches of Asia, including Pergamum. The letter to the church at Pergamum (Revelation 2:12-17) is delivered by Christ, described as the one who holds the sharp two-edged sword. Christ acknowledges that the believers at Pergamum dwell "where Satan's throne is," likely a reference to the city's prominent pagan worship, including the great altar of Zeus and the imperial cult. Despite this hostile spiritual environment, the church held fast to Christ's name and did not deny the faith, even when Antipas, a faithful witness, was martyred among them. However, Christ rebuked the congregation for tolerating those who held the teaching of Balaam and the Nicolaitans, urging repentance. The letter concludes with the promise of hidden manna and a white stone with a new name for those who overcome, symbols of intimate communion with God and vindication.
Archaeological & Historical Notes
Pergamum, modern Bergama in western Turkey, was one of the most important cultural and political centers of the ancient world. The acropolis rises dramatically above the surrounding plain, and excavations begun by German archaeologists in the 1870s have uncovered remarkable remains. The great Altar of Zeus, with its famous gigantomachy frieze, was transported to Berlin and is now housed in the Pergamon Museum. The site also preserves one of the steepest theaters in the ancient world, the remains of the temple of Trajan, the library that once rivaled Alexandria, and the Asclepion, a renowned healing center dedicated to the god of medicine. These extensive pagan installations illuminate the biblical description of Pergamum as a place where Satan had his throne.
Verse Appearances (2)
Sources: ISBE Encyclopedia · OpenBible Geocoding (CC BY) · Pleiades Gazetteer View all →