Bible Dictionary
Gadarenes
The Gadarenes were inhabitants of the region governed by Gadara. The name is used in the Gospel accounts describing the country where Jesus delivered the demoniac or demoniacs.
Definition
The Gadarenes were the inhabitants of Gadara or of the territory under its authority. The name could therefore describe people associated with the principal city of the region, even when the event occurred elsewhere within that territory.
Biblical Usage
Matthew calls the district in the demoniac narrative the country of the Gadarenes, while Mark and Luke use the designation Gerasenes in the parallel accounts. The Gospel terminology identifies the general region associated with the miracle.
Historical Background
Gadara was the chief city of the surrounding district. Its jurisdiction extended over country east of the Sea of Galilee and apparently included areas associated with subordinate local centers.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
The inhabitants of Gadara, in Revised Version “Gerasenes” (Mark 5:1; Luke 8:26, 37). In Matt. 8:28 they are called Gergesenes, Revised Version “Gadarenes.”
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>gad-a-renz'. See preceding article.</p>