ZENOBIA'S CAPITAL CITY

Zenobia strengthened and embellished her capital, Palmyra, to such an extent that it ranked with the larger cities of the Roman world.  Its estimated population reached over 150,000. Splendid public buildings, temples, gardens, pillars, and monuments filled Palmyra, a city encircled by walls said to be 13 miles in circumference. A colonnade of Corinthian pillars over 50 feet high-some 1,500 of them-lined the principal avenue. Statues and busts  of heroes and wealthy benefactors abounded int he city in 271 C.E., Zenobia erected statues of herself and her late husband. 

The Temple of the Sun was one of the finest structures in Palmyra and no doubt dominated the religious scene in the city. Zenobia herself may have worshiped a deity associated with the sun-god. Syria of the third century, however, was a land of many religions.  In Zenobia's domain there were professing Christians, Jews, and worshipers of the sun and moon.  What was her attitude toward these various forms of worship? Author Stoneman observes:  "A wise ruler will not neglect any customs that seem appropriate to her people. . . .The gods, it was . . .hoped, had been marshaled on Palmyra's side."  Apparently, Zenobia was religiously tolerant.

With her colorful personality, Zenobia won the admiration of many. Of greatest significance  was her role in representing  a political entity foretold in Daniel's prophecy. Her reign, however, lasted no more than five years.  Roman Emperor Aurelian defeated  Zenobia in 272 C.E. and subsequently sacked Palmyra beyond repair. Zenobia was granted clemency. She is said to have married a Roman senator and presumably spent the rest of her life in retirement. 

Next time: THE RIVAL KINGS ENTER THE 20TH CENTURY: CHAPTER FIFTEEN

From the book: PAY ATTENTION TO DANIEL'S PROPHECY! 1999