Bible Geography · Aram / Syria · c. 3000 BC – Present
Damascus
Description
Damascus is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, located in a fertile oasis fed by the Barada River in modern Syria. It served as the capital of the Aramean kingdom and was a major commercial and political center throughout biblical history.
Significance
Damascus appears throughout both Testaments. In the Old Testament it is a frequent adversary of Israel. In the New Testament, the road to Damascus is where Saul of Tarsus encountered the risen Christ, transforming the greatest persecutor of the church into its greatest missionary.
Key Events
Elisha's ministry in Damascus (2 Kings 8); Isaiah's oracle against Damascus (Isaiah 17); Paul's conversion on the road to Damascus (Acts 9); Paul's escape from Damascus in a basket (Acts 9:25).
Modern Context
Damascus remains the capital of modern Syria and one of the Arab world's most historic cities. The Street Called Straight mentioned in Acts 9:11 is still identifiable in the old city. Despite ongoing conflict in Syria, the ancient Christian quarter of Damascus has survived.