reaches Thyatira. In splendour and wealth it did not compare with the other cities in Asia Minor, which it was the object of the apostle's tour to visit; but it was, and has always been, distinguished for the industry and thrift of its people. It had many important buildings, and some of the numerous fountains in its streets still bear Greek inscriptions. From time immemorial it had been famous for the dyeing trade. It occupies the same picturesque position as of old, and probably, when John visited it, presented the same inviting market for the products of the interior and the same extensive bazaars as now. The apostle is now on the road again, which for some time continues on the banks of the river Lycus, which flows into the Hyllus, one of the affluents of the Hermus, and then ascends and winds among the low hillocks. He continues in a nearly southerly direction, and crosses the whole valley of the Hermus, and arrives at Sardis, once the proud capital of Lydia. He found it a city flourishing and prosperous, and of great magnificence, notwithstanding the vicissitudes through which it had passed. Here could be seen the temple of Cybele, situated at the back of the acropolis, on the high banks of the Pactolus. Having accomplished the object of his visit, the apostle is moving again; his course is now more to the east, but still southerly. It lies along the valley of the Hermus, and at length takes an almost eastward direction, keeping on the right the range of Mount Tmolus. Philadelphia is now reached, on the north-eastern slope of the range of Mount Tmolus, on a site commanding the entrance to the valley of the Mæander on the one side and of the Hermus on the other. Although it was never a city of the first class, it is still inhabited, covering the same ground and surrounded by the same walls as of old. Here the apostle found a body of Christians who had embraced the doctrine of Christ with zeal and earnestness, and who courageously maintained their right to the free exercise of their religious duties and worship. His journey next takes him to Laodicea, and his course is again more nearly south-easterly, and lies at the start along the north-eastern side of Mount Tmolus. The road is in some parts bad and rocky, with many windings up and down, but picturesque. It requires two days to accomplish the journey. He passes close to ancient Tripolis, crosses the Mæander, and having reached Hierapolis his course lies directly south to Laodicea, in full sight on the opposite side of the Lycus. He finds himself in a city in the midst of great wealth and grandeur, as the remains of its vast stadium, theatres, and gymnasium silently but most impressively testify. Colossæ (or its site), to which one of the epistles of Paul is addressed, is about three hours' ride to the east of Laodicea. There seems to have been a most intimate association Homer, Iliad, iv. 141. 2 In the province of Phrygia. |