To fully comprehend the significance of the message conveyed to the glorious and elegant city of Ephesus, it is essential to delve into both its cultural history rooted in the Graeco-Roman world and its theological origins in the Hebraic-Semitic tradition. This chapter aims to provide a comprehensive exploration of the historical background surrounding the city of Ephesus.

Ephesus, an ancient city located in present-day Turkey, holds a significant place in history as a thriving center of commerce, politics, and religion. This chapter delves into the rich historical background of Ephesus, exploring its population, commercial activities, political importance, and religious significance. Additionally, it highlights key archaeological findings that shed light on the city's past.

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The Cultural Background of Ephesus

THE GEOGRAPHY OF EPHESUS ....p. 100

The Geography of Ephesus:

Ephesus, known as Ἐφέσος in ancient times and located in modern-day Selçuk (coordinates: 37:56:28 N 27:20:30 E), was an ancient Greek city established on the Aegean coast by Greek colonizers around 1100 BC. Its foundations were laid upon Apaša, the royal Hittite city of greater Arzawa. According to Greek legend, the city was founded by the Amazons, who also introduced the worship of Artemis, as it became one of the twelve cities of the Ionian league (Strabo Geogr. 11.5.3–4; Callimachus Hymn. Dian. 3.233).

By examining the geographical context of Ephesus, we can gain valuable insights into its historical development and cultural significance.

THE HISTORY OF EPHESUS ....p. 101

THE POPULATION OF EPHESUS ....p. 102

Fig. 18. Urban plan of the city of Ephesus.

AN IMPORTANT COMMERCIAL CENTER ....p. 104

Ephesus stood as a bustling commercial hub, attracting merchants and traders from various regions. Its strategic location near the coast provided access to a thriving commercial harbor, facilitating trade and maritime activities. The city boasted a well-developed road system, connecting it to other major cities and trade routes of the time. The commercial agora, a central marketplace, served as a vibrant hub for economic transactions and exchange.

The commercial harbour ....p. 104
The road system ......p. 106
Fig. 19. Main road called the Sacred Way, leading from Ephesus.
The commercial agora .....p. . 106
Fig. 20. Market Square of the commercial agora, Ephesus.

AN IMPORTANT POLITICAL CENTER ....p. 107

Ephesus held political significance as a free city, enjoying a degree of autonomy within the broader political landscape. The judicial circuit of Ephesus, known as the Assize, played a crucial role in administering justice and maintaining order. The city also hosted the prestigious Panionian Games, attracting participants and spectators from far and wide. The grand theater of Ephesus, a testament to its political prominence, served as a venue for various civic and cultural events. The library of Celsus, a magnificent structure, showcased the city's intellectual and cultural achievements.

A free city ....p. 107

Fig. 21. Ephesian Boulētarion or Odeon
The judicial circuit of Ephesus (Assize) ....p. 109
The panionian games ....p. 109
The theater of Ephesus ....p. 110
Fig. 22. The theater in Ephesus.
The library of Celsus ....p. 112
Fig. 23. The library of Celsus and Gate of Macaeus and Mithridates.

AN IMPORTANT RELIGIOUS CENTER ....p. 112

Religion held a central place in the lives of Ephesians, and the city was renowned for its religious practices and institutions. The imperial cult, centered around the worship of the Roman emperor, played a significant role in Ephesian religious life. The keeper of the temples, known as the neōkoros, oversaw the maintenance and rituals of the numerous temples scattered throughout the city. The Augusteion temple stood as a prominent religious site, dedicated to the cult of Emperor Augustus.

The imperial cult and the keeper of the temples (neōkoros) ....p. 112

Fig. 24. Recreation of the Artemision, Temple of Artemis.
Fig. 25. The remains of the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus.
Fig. 26. Artemis, the goddess of hunting, as portrayed in Cyrene.
Fig. 27. “The Great Artemis” from the Prytanaeum of Ephesus.
Fig. 28. Ephesian coin with the head of Claudius.
Fig. 29. Ephesian neokorōn coin with the Temple of Artemis.
Fig. 30. Ephesian coin with the head of Augustus and the altar of Artemis.
Fig. 31. Bust of Roman emperor Domitian.
Fig. 32. Colossal statue of Emperor Titus.
Fig. 33. Temple of Hadrian on Curetes Street, Ephesus.
Fig. 34. Coin from Thyatira with the bust of Athena and Tyche.

Augusteion temple ....p. 122

A city of immorality and superstition ....p. 122

Ephesus was also known for its reputation as a city of immorality and superstition. Various cults and belief systems coexisted within its boundaries, including the Jewish and Christian communities. The Jewish community had a notable presence, contributing to the diverse religious landscape of Ephesus. The Christian community, influenced by the teachings of the apostle Paul, played a significant role in shaping the city's religious dynamics.
As we delve into the archaeological excavation and historical records, we gain a deeper understanding of Ephesus and its multifaceted significance in the ancient world. Through the exploration of its population, commercial activities, political structures, and religious practices, we unravel the layers of this remarkable city's past.

Fig. 35. Marble statue of Dionysus.
Fig. 36. A sign to the brothel.
Fig. 37. Menorah Library of Celsus.

The Jewish community ....p. 125

The Christian community ....p. 126

Fig. 38. Restored Library of Celsus, Ephesus.

This chapter will delve into the rich archaeological excavations conducted in Ephesus, shedding light on the city's past and its connections to biblical archaeology.