The Strand Study Bible

BETWEEN THE TESTAMENTS Obviously, no one else had ever thought of doing that, but then again, no one ever charged the world like an enraged animal the way Alexander did. After his exploits in Gordium, Alexander journeyed south again toward Tarsus, the future birthplace of the Apostle Paul (Acts 9:11 & 21:39 & 22:3). Entering the city, Alexander felt hot due to the long march in the spring weather. While cooling himself off in a nearby icy river, he fell sick and became feverish. For the first time in his life, he became seriously ill. It’s true: nature is apt to take revenge on those who abuse her gifts. The year was 333 BC.

CASPIAN SEA

BLACK SEA

Pella •

• Gordium

Pisidia •

• Issus

Tarsus •

Tigris River

Euphrates River

Crete

Cyprus

MEDITERRANEAN SEA

EGYPT

Alexander needed quick medical attention, if he was to survive. After none of the regular doctors were able to help, Alexander called for a new physician named Philip of Acarnanian. However, moments before Philip was to administer the medication, Alexander received a letter from Parmenio, his best general, stating that his new physician had been hired by Darius III to poison him. After reading the letter, Alexander looked at Philip and then handed him the letter while he drank the concoction to no ill effect. Alexander seemed to sense his own destiny. Still feverish, Alexander left his sick and wounded beside the Pinarus River and marched his troops toward Issus, hoping to face Darius. The month was October. The year was still 333 BC.

CASPIAN SEA

BLACK SEA

Pella •

• Gordium

Pisidia •

• Issus

Tarsus •

Tigris River

Euphrates River

Crete

Cyprus

• Damascus

• Sidon

MEDITERRANEAN SEA

• Jerusalem

Gaza •

EGYPT

After losing over 22,000 troops to Alexander at the Granicus River, Darius III had realized that Alexander was an

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