Scythians in the Bible: Unveiling the Mystery of an Ancient People

Though mentioned only briefly in the Bible, the Scythians have captured the imagination of historians, archaeologists, and biblical scholars alike. This blog post explores who the Scythians were, their historical context, their appearance in the Bible, and the significance of their mention in biblical literature.

Who Were the Scythians?

The Scythians were a nomadic people originating from the Eurasian steppes, a vast grassland stretching from modern-day Ukraine through southern Russia and into Central Asia. Flourishing from around the 9th century BCE until roughly the 2nd century CE, Scythians were renowned for their skills as horsemen, archers, and warriors. They lived in mobile communities, herding livestock and engaging in trade, warfare, and complex cultural practices, including elaborate burial rituals and intricate gold craftsmanship.

Greek historians, particularly Herodotus, describe the Scythians as fierce and independent, often feared by their neighbors. Their influence stretched far and wide, leaving traces from the Black Sea to the borders of China. The Scythians’ mobility and martial prowess enabled them to remain largely unconquered for centuries, making them both a threat and a fascination to the empires around them, including the Persians and Greeks.

The Biblical Reference: Where Do Scythians Appear?

Despite their prominence in the ancient world, Scythians are mentioned only once by name in the canonical books of the Bible. The reference appears in the New Testament, specifically in Paul’s letter to the Colossians:

“Here there is no Gentile or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all.” (Colossians 3:11, NIV)

This verse is part of Paul’s broader message about the unity and equality of all believers in Christ, regardless of their social, ethnic, or cultural backgrounds. The Scythians, listed alongside categories such as “barbarian,” “slave,” and “free,” represent the most extreme example of outsiders in the cultural imagination of Paul’s audience.

Why Mention the Scythians?

In the Greco-Roman world of the first century, the term “Scythian” had come to symbolize not just a particular ethnic group but the epitome of the “barbarian” outsider. To many Greeks and Romans, Scythians were considered the most uncivilized, wild, and distant people imaginable. Their customs, language, and way of life were perceived as the antithesis of Greco-Roman ideals.

By mentioning the Scythians, Paul emphasizes the radical inclusivity of the Christian faith. If even the Scythians—regarded as the furthest removed from the civilized world—are included in the new humanity created in Christ, then no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace. This rhetorical device would have resonated strongly with Paul’s audience, making his point about unity and equality all the more powerful.

Scythians in the Ancient World: A Biblical Context

Although the Scythians are explicitly mentioned only in Colossians, their presence loomed large in the ancient Near East during the times of the Old Testament prophets. Historical records suggest that Scythian raids and migrations had significant impacts on the empires of Assyria, Babylon, and Persia.

Some biblical scholars speculate that references to “northern invaders” or “peoples from the north” in prophetic books such as Jeremiah or Ezekiel may allude, at least in part, to the Scythians, given their prominence as northern raiders during those periods. For instance, Jeremiah 6:22–23 describes a mighty nation coming from the north, skilled in war and bringing terror. While the identity of these invaders is debated, some see a possible connection to the Scythians.

However, there is no direct, unambiguous identification of the Scythians in the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament). Their possible influence, though, forms part of the broader context of the threats faced by ancient Israel and Judah from various nomadic and semi-nomadic peoples.

Archaeological and Historical Insights

Archaeological discoveries across Ukraine, southern Russia, and Kazakhstan have revealed much about Scythian life and culture. Burial mounds, or kurgans, have yielded treasures ranging from finely worked gold jewelry to weapons and horse trappings. These finds attest to a rich culture with strong warrior traditions and a deep spiritual life, often centered on ancestor worship and animism.

Scythians also interacted with other cultures, including the Greeks, Persians, and peoples of the Near East. These interactions sometimes led to conflict, but also facilitated trade and cultural exchange. Some art and artifacts even show a blending of Scythian and Greek motifs, especially in the colonies along the Black Sea coast.

Theological Implications: Breaking Down Barriers

Paul’s inclusion of Scythians in Colossians 3:11 is not merely a historical footnote but carries deep theological significance. In a world divided by rigid social and ethnic boundaries, Paul’s vision of the church is radically inclusive. The mention of Scythians underscores that in Christ, even those considered the most alien or “barbaric” are welcomed as equals.

This message challenges believers to look beyond stereotypes and prejudices, both in the ancient context and today. The gospel’s reach extends to all peoples, regardless of their background, culture, or social standing. The presence of Scythians in Paul’s list serves as a reminder that the Christian community is called to transcend cultural barriers and embrace unity in diversity.