Medical practice ranged from household remedies to trained practitioners influenced by Egyptian, Mesopotamian, Greek, and Roman traditions. Religious prayer and medical treatment were not necessarily viewed as mutually exclusive.
Customs & Culture
Physicians and Ancient Medical Care
Biblical people sought treatment from physicians and used medicines, bandaging, oils, wine, and other therapies available within ancient medical traditions.
Primary Scripture
Historical and Cultural Background
Biblical Examples
Egyptian physicians embalm Jacob, Asa consults physicians, the woman with chronic bleeding has spent much on doctors, and Luke is called the beloved physician.
Biblical Significance
The Gospels' healing narratives occur in a world where people did pursue ordinary treatment, making Jesus' extraordinary healings distinct from the claim that ancient people simply had no medicine.
Related Images
Common Misconceptions
Ancient medicine should not be dismissed as wholly superstitious, nor should ancient remedies be assumed medically effective by modern standards.
Historical Setting and Evidence
Culture: Ancient Near Eastern, Mesopotamian, Israelite, Judean/Jewish, Greek/Hellenistic, Roman
Period: Patriarchal Period, Exodus and Wilderness, Conquest and Judges, United Monarchy, Divided Monarchy, Kingdom of Judah, Babylonian Exile, Persian Period, Hellenistic Period, Hasmonean Period, Roman / Second Temple Period, Apostolic / Early Church Period
Evidence: Well Attested
Interpretive Importance: Major
Medical papyri, instruments, pharmacological texts, and literary references are extensive.
Scripture References
Related Information
Sources
Genesis 50; Mark 5; Luke 10; Colossians 4