Speculation is having Aretas IV having control of Damascus within the standard NT timeline.yakovzutolmai wrote: ↑Tue Aug 17, 2021 6:11 amThen what is there to discuss?maryhelena wrote: ↑Mon Aug 16, 2021 9:38 pm
The above is speculation.
The issue under consideration in this thread is dealing with an Aretas who controlled Damascus. History: Aretas III controlled Damascus during the years 85 to 72 b.c. and 69 to 64/63 b.c.
Do the Roman epitomes conclusively discount that Aretas IV might have temporarily controlled Damascus during his conflict with Antipas? If not, then why would we say that Paul couldn't have faced this incident in the 30s? Even deference to Aretas, by Damascus city leaders, over Antipas and Herodian agents, could lead to the language seen in 2 Corinthians 11.
If we're transposing Paul to the 80s BCE, then we're certainly forced to speculate about a far greater number of issues. Which seems fruitful as discussion. I don't see the problem.
The issue invites speculation.
I'm not transporting Paul anywhere. I view Paul as a paper apostle. Consequently, it's the dating of Aretas III that is of interest. Dating that indicates Hasmonean history has a relevance for the NT story.