An institution of general history from the beginning of the vvorld to the monarchy of Constantine the Great : composed in such method and manner as never yet was extant / by William Howel ...

CHAP. II. Of the Babylonian Empire, from the first founding thereof to it's utter subversion by Cyrus.

* 1.11. AFter the division of the Earth; Nimrod, as we said, the Son of Chus and Nephew of Cham fixed his seat at Babel, and therein first be∣gan a Kingdom; having joyned to it(a) 1.2 Erech, and Accad, and Calneh, in the Land of Shinar. By Erech, the ancients understood Edessa; and by Ac••ad, Nisibis: But neither the names nor situation of these Cities do agree; they being in that part of Mesopotamia which lyeth towards Armenia, and very far from Babylon. Therefore Erech is rather to be taken for Arecca a City of Susiana upon Tigris, mentioned by Ptolomy, which also seemeth to be the same with Arderica or Anderica(b) 1.3 in Herodotus; Ard in the Persian tongue signifying great. And well Arecca might so be called, which was so long, that sailing up the River one should meet with it three severall dayes, one after another; as the Historian relateth. Bochartus thinketh Accad (cal∣led also Archad) to have given name to the River Argad, which ran through Sittacena a Province near to Babylonia, & since called Apolloniatis. By Calneh (which is also Calno and Cauno) is to be understood that City, by the Par∣thians, re-built and called Clesiphon. It stood upon Tigris, three miles from Seleucia, being the Metropolis of Chalonitis, a Province denominated from it, and mentioned by Strabo, and others. Babylon was exhausted by the building of Seleucia, as Pliny(c) 1.4 telleth us; and the Parthians built (or re∣built) Clesiphon in Chalonitis, three miles off, to drain Seleucia.

* 1.52. The duration of this Babylonian or Assyrian Empire till Sardanapalus is variously assigned; the cause of which seemeth to be, for that some de∣rived the Originall thereof from the birth of Chus, as Cappellus* 1.6 thinketh, and so Herodotus might assign 1520 years to the continuance of it. Others from the beginning of the Babylonian Kingdom, as Diodorus, who reckoneth 1400 years to the death of Sardanapalus. Some from the building of Ninive, as Clesias, who hath 1360. And lastly, others from the death of Belus, as Tro∣gus and Eusebius, who give to it 1300 years. That Nimrod should begin his Kingdom within an hundred years after the Flood, is not very probable, as neither that the building of the Tower of Babel happened within that time; which would have been too short a space for the propagation of man∣kind to so great multitudes. An hundred years after the Deluge,* 1.7 Phaleg was born, in whose dayes it was that the Earth was divided. Some make the di∣vision to have been at the same time of his birth, and thence his name impo∣sed, as from a thing already done, or in doing. Others assign it to the latter end of his dayes, and will have his name prophetically given by his Father:* 1.8 But there are not wanting, who take a middle way betwixt these two, and think the division made, when he was come to ripenesse of age; or in the middle of his years; the number of which amounted to 239. When Alex∣ander the great had conquered Babylon, which fell out about the 3675^th year of the World; Callisthenes the Philosopher, who followed him in his Wars,* 1.9 at the desire of Aristotle his Kinsman, inquired into the Antiquities of the Chaldaeans, and could find no observations of any longer date then 1903 years; which being cast back from the foresaid years, fall in their beginning,

into the 1772 from the Creation, the 116^th▪ from the Deluge, and the 16th. of Phaleg's life.

* 1.103. Nimrod, the founder of this Empire, was by his subjects named Be••, or Belus, which signifieth Lord, or Soveraign. That he was the ancient Belu's, is thence proved; that* 1.11 most of the old Writers accounted Belus the builder of Babylon, although some attributed it to Semiramis, herein relying upon the credit of Clesias, which now is deservedly suspected by learned men, and in no case worthy to stand in Competition with that of Berosus the famous Baby∣lonian Priest (who, as Pliny saith, had a Statue erected to his memory at Athens with a guilded tongue) nor with that of Abydenus, who also collected his Histories out of the Chaldaean Archives. After Moses hath spoken of the four Cities, which were the beginning of Nimrod's Kingdom; we read that out of that Land (of Shinar) Assur went forth and built Niniveh and the Citie Rehoboth, and Calah, and Pesen, between Niniveh and Calah. Some, according to this Translation, will have this Assur to have been the son of Sem, who having built Niniveh,* 1.12 and founded the Assyrian Kingdom, Nimrod dispossessed him, or his; or some manner of way obtained, and joyned it to the Babylonian, as Julius Africanus hath delivered. But others con∣tend that this Assur is the name of the Countrey, and not of a Man, and that it is to be read: And out of that Land went out (Nimrod) into Assur, (i. e. As∣syria) and builded Ninive, &c. Otherwise they think it would be out of the way, for Moses to mention the son of Sem in this place, where he is in hand with the Genealogie of Cham; neither could it be peculiar to him to go out of this Land and build Niniveh, seeing all mankind almost, at the division of the Earth, went out of it. The last reading onely maketh the sense intire; for how else could the four Cities properly be said to be the beginning of Nimrod's Kingdom, except he added more unto it? Lastly, this seemeth very urgent that, in Scripture, Assyria is called the Land of Nimrod.* 1.13

4. He was a mighty Hunter before the Lord, or, therein none was to be compared with him; things being said to be such before God, as were so indeed, or in an eminent manner; He judging not according to outward ap∣pearance, but as they are in their own natures. By the means of Hunting it is probable that he made way unto his Monarchy.* 1.14 For under pretence of what was very necessary at this time (when men were few, scattered, and lying abroad, without defence against wild beasts, which ever especially abounded about Arabia and Babylon) he might gather a band of men, and by such exer∣cises (which the Heathens(d) 1.15 by their practice, as well as opinion shewed to be convenient for breeding of Warriours) train them up, till he converted their force from beasts to men. What was performed by him seemeth to have been attributed to his successors. Ninus is(e) 1.16 said to have gathered an Army of Arabians, and therewith to have subdued the Babylonians; which seemeth to have related to his Conquest of that Countrey. For being a Chasaean, and consequently an Arabian, he might by the assistance of his own Countrey-men and Kindred effect it; whom he(f) 1.17 rewarded with that Region beyond Ti∣gris, which thence was, by the Hebrews, called Chus, by the Caldaeans, Chuth; Cissia, by the Greeks; and Chuzestan (i. e. the Province of Chus) by the Per∣sians. From his usurping the right of Noah, some think the Fable to have sprung, of Saturn being cast out of his Kingdom by Jupiter; the word Nim∣rod signifying a Rebell, and answerable to his carriage. He is also judged to be the true Bacchus;* 1.18 this word being little changed from Bar-Chus, that is, the son of Chus. Bacchus was the son of Jupiter, and he was the Grand-son of Jupiter Hammon. The most ancient name of Bacchus was Zagre••s, which signifieth a strong hunter, answerable to the Epithete given to Nimrod. He undertook an expedition into the East, wherein seem to be contained the Facts of Nimrod and his Successors. Bacchus was feigned to be born at Nysa in Arabia; and Nimrod was also an Arabian. And not unlikely might Nim∣rod be thought to be over the Vines, who first raigned at Babylon, where was that most excellent kind of Wine, dignified by the Ancients with the name of Nectar. To the raign of Belus, or Nimrod,* 1.19 65 years are given by Julius Africanus.

* 1.205. Ninus his son succeeded him, and canonized him for a God, which gave, as 'tis said, the first occasion to Idolatry. He made a confederacy with Arieus,* 1.21 King of Arabia (which Countrey withstood most Conquests); and then invading Armenia, forced Barzanes the King thereof, to submit to his Vassallage. Next he entred Media, where he took and Crucified Phamus the King; and then, being pricked on by desire of glory, and incouraged by his successe, he subdued all the people of Asia in seventeen years, except the Indians and Bactrians;(g) 1.22 the latter whereof under Conduct of their King Zoro∣astres (or rather Oxgartes, for Zoroaster the great Magician lived many ages after) stoutly opposed him, and yet at length were brought under, as we have it from Diodorus, who reporteth also that Ninus built Ninive, which he so named after himself.* 1.23 Whether he, his father, or any other built it, A Citie it was of great bignesse, strength, and ornament, being in compasse sixty miles; of a Quadrangular form, incompassed and fortified with a Wall a hundred foot high, and of such a breadth as three Charriots might have been driven to∣gether a-breast upon it; adorned also with Towers, 200 foot in height. The place of it is not agreed of, and(h) 1.24 some think there were two Cities of this name; one upon Euphrates in Comagena, and another in Assyria beyond Tigris. As for Ninus, many things done both by his father, and successors seem to be attributed to him, He reigned 52 years; and the manner of his death is diversly related.(i) 1.25 One saith, he was shot with a Dart as he lay be∣fore a Town.(k) 1.26 Another writeth that Semiramis his wife (whom he had chosen for her admirable beauty and now doated on) obtained leave to wear his Royall Robe, and reign over Asia five dayes; and then, when she had got the power into her hands, commanded one of the Guard to kill him: But a(l) 1.27 third,* 1.28 onely relateth him to have been secured in prison.

* 1.296. He left a son by Semiramis, named Ninyas, who being but young, she put on mans Apparel, and counterfeiting his person as well as Sexe is report∣ed to have done very great things; part of which might rather be challenged by the two foregoing Kings, and by some that followed her.* 1.30 The resem∣blance of her son in all the lineaments and proportion of his body took away suspicion; for the further prevention whereof, she commanded the same kind of Garment to be worn by the people. At length, when she thought she had got fame sufficient, she made her self known, which detracted not from her glorie,* 1.31 but added to the lustre of it. She re-edified and inlarged Babylon, incompassing it with a Wall made up of Brick, Sand, and a certain Clay, or slime clammy, like Pitch, which there abounded: and* 1.32 restrained, by new works, the violence of Euphrates which formerly was wont to overflow into the Town. Not content with the Empire as her husband left it, she inlarged it by the Conquest of Aethiopia, and made War upon India, though without successe; in which undertaking she onely had Alexander the Great her Aemu∣lator, as Justin affirmeth. But, after she had reigned 42 years, either for that she would have had to do unlawfully with her son (being reported ex∣ceeding vitious of her body), or because he was impatient of her so long retaining the power, he slew her; although some say, she voluntarily resigned the Kingdom. After her death she was feigned to be turned into a Dove, and worshipped for a Goddesse under that shape; the occasion of which seemeth to have been the bearing of that bird pourtraited in her Ensign.

* 1.337. Ninyas, or Ninus, (as Justin calleth him) succeeding, imitated neither Grand-father, Father, nor Mother; but giving up himself wholly to an effeminate course of life, would be seen by none except Concubines and Eunuchs. Yet to him is ascribed that politick ordering of the Militia, which was imitated constantly by his Successors.* 1.34 A yearly choice was made of Officers and Soul∣diers out of each Province, to lye in Garrison in the Citie, and to be ready at all Essayes, there to continue for one year; at the end of which they were succeeded by new Levies. Hereby▪ the subject was contained in obe∣dience; and yet, by suffering the Souldiers no longer to continue together, all conspiracies and plots were prevented, which might else have risen amongst such multitudes; the space of a year not being sufficient for such through

and intimate acquaintance, as might produce any considerable stirs. Those that followed Ninyas for thirty Generations trod, for the most part, in his paths; nothing either memorable, or certain, remaining of them, except of Teutamus the 20th. from Ninyas,* 1.35 to whom Priamus King of Troy, when he was besieged by the Greeks, sent for aid. This Teutamus is said to have sent him a supply of 10000 Aethiopians, and as many of the inhabitants of Su∣siana, with 200 Chariots, under the Command of Memnon, who bearing himself very valiantly against the besiegers, was at length by the wiles of the Thessalians, circumvented and slain. From the beginning of the Assyrian Empire, to the destruction of Troy, Eusebius reckoneth 943 years, Cappellus from the building of Nineveh 995.

* 1.368. The 30th. in order was Tonos-Concoleros,* 1.37 by the Greeks and Romans called Sardanapalus, ennobled onely above the rest, for his excesse in effemi∣natenesse, and his ruin caused thereby. He spent all his time amongst wo∣men; with whom he would sit and spin, imitating them in all things possi∣ble, so as scarce ever in his whole time was he seen of the other Sex. This extraordinary corruption of manners gave occasion to two of his greatest Of∣ficers to compasse his destruction.* 1.38 For Belesis (or Belochus) the Governour of Babylon, a great Magician and Astrologer, out of the Doctrine of the Starres, foretold to Arbaces Governour of Media, (otherwise called(m) 1.39 Arbachus,(n) 1.40 Orbachus, and(o) 1.41 Pharnaces), that one day he should obtain the whole principality of Sardanapalus, and excited him to attempts suitable to such an atchievement. Arbaces herewith puffed up, promised him the possession of Babylon, if his Prediction should take, and laboured to ingratiate him∣self with the Captains of the several Provinces. Then, having a great desire to see what manner of life the King lived, he hired an Eunuch to bring him into the Pallace, where beholding with his eyes his dissolute carriage, he de∣spised him, and much more incouraged himself in the hope given him by Be∣lesis. They now resolved, the one to draw the Medes and Persians, and the other the Babylonians to revolt; and Arbaces communicated his design and purpose to the Governour of Arabia his great friend.

9. These things being as diligently put in practice, as readily undertaken,* 1.42 the next year an Army of 400000 men coming up to Niniveh, where the King then lay; under pretence of relieving the former year's Guard, re∣solved to employ their force in the ruin of the Assyrian Kingdom. Sardana∣palus, having timely notice of the revolt, drew out such forces as were in the Citie, and falling upon the Rebels in the Plain, put them to the rout. They flying to the Mountains, and recollecting their courage, came down again and ingaged; but with the same successe: after which they retreated to the same place. Hereupon Arbaces calling the Officers together to advise what was to be done, all of them were for disbanding the Army and departing home, except Belesis, who urging them with what the Starres portended, pre∣vailed with them to stay; but to no other purpose than that the King might gain the third victory,* 1.43 which shortly happened. Now they fully resolved to be gone; when Belesis, his credit being deeply ingaged, spent the whole night in viewing the Stars; out of the mystery of which he was bold to affirm, that help would come of its own accord, and great changes follow, if they would have patience but five dayes longer. They being yet prevailed with, for this once; before the five dayes were expired, news came that great forces were coming from Bactria to the aid of the King. To them Arbaces sent, and ea∣sily perswaded them to joyn with the Conspirators.

10. Sardanapalus knowing nothing of this, and puffed up with his successe, returned to his former course of life; which Arbaces understanding from cer∣tain Fugitives, and how his Army lay in a secure and carelesse posture, drew down upon it in the night, made a great slaughter, and drove those that escaped into Niniveh.* 1.44 Hereupon the King committed the conduct of the Army to Salaemenes his wives brother, and took upon himself the defence of the Citie; but the Rebels twice in the field overthrew his forces, and killed the Gene∣ral with most of his Souldiers. Then was the Citie closely besieged, and ma∣ny

Nations revolted to the conspirators; which the King considering, and sen∣sible of his condition, sent out his three Sons, and two Daughters, with a great treasure, to Cotta, the Governour of Paphlagonia, and, dispatch∣ing Courriers into several Provinces, took what care he possibly could for the making of new Levies.

11. Neither was he behind hand in providing all things within, that were necessary for resistance. There being no fear of storming the Town, by rea∣son of the wonderful strength and heighth of the walls. He considered the main danger to lye in the affections of the inhabitants; to whom, that they might have no cause to attempt any new thing, he supplied all necessaries in a plen∣tifull measure. Two years and above he held out, and doubted not but to be able to do it, till relief should come; and the rather, for that they had an Oracle that Ninivie should never be taken, till the River first proved an ene∣my to it;* 1.45 which he never could suspect. But in the third year fell such rains, that Euphrates (or Lycus, upon which some conceive that Strabo placeth the City, and not Euphrates, nor Tigris, as others) swelling with abundance of waters, made a breach in the Wall twenty Furlongs in length. At this the King utterly discouraged,* 1.46 as judging the Oracle to be fulfilled, lest he should fall alive into the hands of his enemies, he built a pile of wood in his Palace, upon which he heaped his treasures, and rich attire; and, making a little room in the midst, wherein he bestowed himselfe, his Concubines and Eunuchs, set fire to the heap, and so perished with this Company and the Palace. Such was the end of him, who placed all his felicity in his sensuall appetite, which he would have also recorded in his(p) 1.47 Epitaph, and advised the Reader to imi∣tate. He is reported to have built (but rather he restored) two Cities of Cilicia in one day, viz. Tarsus and Anchiala; in the later of which was his(q) 1.48 Monument to be seen, being a Statue of stone, with the finger and thumb of the right hand joyned together as about to give a fillip. Upon the Monument was written in Assyrian Characters: Sardanapalus the Son of Anacyndaraca built Anchiales, and Tarsus in one day. As for thee, Friend, Eat, drink, and play: for all things else are not worth this, viz. that fillip. In him this line of the Assyrians failed, the Empire being divided into two Principalities, after it had continued about 1400 years, reckoned from the building of Babylon. This fall of Sardanapalus hapned about the year of the World 3186, 43 years before the first Olympiad.

12. The(r) 1.49 besiegers understanding what was become of Sardanapalus, presenly entred in at the breach, and took the City. Then, investing Arbaces with a royall roabe,* 1.50 they created him King; who rewarded them according to their deserts, and allotted the Provinces to their severall Gover∣nours. Belesis, according to agreement, having received the principality of Babylon,* 1.51 and understanding from an Eunuch how great treasure Sardana∣palus had burnt with himselfe, begged the ashes of Arbaces, under pretence of having made a vow, in the heat of the War, to carry them to Babylon, and therewith to raise a lasting Monument of the destruction of the Assyrian Empire. He, being ignorant of his covetous design, graunted his request; but when the matter was discovered, referred his judgement to a Councill of Officers who condemned him to death. Yet, being desirous to begin his reign mildly, he not onely remitted this punishment, but permitted him to enjoy all the gold and silver already transported; and, what remained, which amoun∣ted to many talents, he conveied it to Ecbatane the chief City of the Medes.(s) 1.52 Diodorus and(t) 1.53 Strabo tell us how he levelled Ninus (or Ninive) with the ground. Some(u) 1.54 think it was onely the Castle; seeing the City had afterwards Kings, if not comparable to the rest, yet great and powerfull, which they think might descend from Belesis.

* 1.5513. Herodotus(x) 1.56 writeth how the Medes, having freed themselves from the Assyrian yoak, lived for many Ages without a King, in way of a popu∣lar government. But(y) 1.57 Ctesias of Gnidus an Author of something a later date (who served Cyrus the younger, in his expedition against his Brother Artaxerxes, and being taken prisoner in the Battell, was for his excellent skill

in Physick, which he professed, received into favour by the King, and lived in good esteem in his Court 16. years, pretending to transcribe his History out of the Records of Persia, reported that Arbaces, after the overthrow of the Assyrians,* 1.58 reigned 18. years: and as he left the dominion of Asia to the Medes, so also the Soveraignty over them to his Son Mandauces. That Mandauces, having reigned 50. years, left the Kingdom to Sesarmus, who reigned 30. Him followed Artias, and reigned 50, then Arbianis 22, Arsaeus 40, in whose time the Cadusians revolted through the procurement of Parsodas the President of his Councill, whom he had offended. Artynes 22. Artibarnes 14 (in whose reign the Parthians revolted, and gave up them∣selves to the Sacae). And last of all Astyages his Son, who being overthrown by Cyrus, the Empire was thereby devolved upon the Persians.

14. That Ctesias out of design wrote things contrary to Herodotus, is pro∣bable enough, and that he is fabulous cannot be denied; yet have we a successi∣on of Kings elsewhere(z) 1.59 recorded, though such an one as scarce in one name agreeth with that of his.* 1.60 Sosarmus is said to have succeeded Arba∣ces, and continued 30 years, then Medidus 40, Cardiceas 13, and then Deioces, whom Herodotus will have to have first obtained soveraignty over the Medes. For having, as he(a) 1.61 writeth, an ambition that way, he made himselfe popular by pretence to the love of Justice, which then ran at a low ebbe amongst them, for want of authority. He first took upon him to de∣cide the controversies of his own Village, which performing with much equity and conscience, thence became known to other parts, and at length became so famous, that few would bring their causes before any other Judge than him alone. Being aware of this, he withdrew himself, giving out that no longer could he undergo such a burthen, and thereby neglect his private affairs. Hereupon, robberies, violence, and oppression, returned throughout the Country; insomuch, that the people, gathering together from all quarters, after a serious debate, concluded there was necessity of having a King, under whose protection every man living, might the better minde his domestick matters.* 1.62 Deioces was chosen by universall consent, who, having got the power into his hands, caused them to build a City for his residence, which he called Ecbatane, and having ruled with abundant severity 53 years, left the Kingdom to his Son Phraortes.* 1.63 He, after he had reigned 22, left for successor his Son Cyaxares, who having long strugled with various Fortune, (as afterwards will be seen) gave place to his Son Astyages,* 1.64 Father to Man∣dane the Mother of Cyrus.

15. Belesis obtained Babylon, as was said; but how long he held it, or who succeeded him immediately, is not known. About 71 years after,* 1.65 Nabona∣sar, or Nabonassar, obtained the Kingdom there; from the beginning of whose reign, that famous Aera, or Epoche, known by the name of Aera Nabonasari,* 1.66 is derived. It is counted from the first day of that Egyptian month Thoth (Febr. 26.) which fell out 746 Julian years, and 310 dayes, before the Aera of Christ, as Cappellus and others reckon; 424 years before the death of Alexander the Great, according to Ptolomy(b) 1.67 the Prince of Mathematicians,* 1.68 in the 8^th Olympiad. This Author hath preserved the names of such as succeeded Nabonasar, in his Catalogue of Kings. He reigned 14 years, after him Nadius 2, then Chezirus or Porus 5, Jugaeus, or Hu∣laeus 5, and then Mardocempadus 26. In his time happened the(c) 1.69 three most antient Eclipses of the Moon, observed by the Babylonians. The first of them in the first of his reign, and the 28^th of the month Thoth, the 27^th year of Nabonasar. The second in his 2^nd year, on the 18^th of Thoth. And 176 dayes, 20 hours and an halfe after this, the third Eclipse fell out, on the 15^th day of the month Phamenoth. Scaliger and others, think this Mardokempad to be the same with him, who in the(d) 1.70 Scripture is called Merodach-Baladan, the Son of Baladan. But Cappellus conjectureth there were two Merodach's, Sons of Baladan and Nephews of Nabonasar, where∣of the one was called Merodac-Kempad, and the other Merodac-Baladan.

16. Mardokempadus, having reigned 12 years, was succeded by Arki∣anus,

who ruled 5. Then followed an Inter-regnum for two years, after which Belibus obtained the Kingdom for 3, then Apronadius 6, Rigibelus one, Mesessimordak, 4; after whom another Inter-regnum insued for 8 years, he being also written Mesessi carduc. Now the Royall Race seem∣eth to(e) 1.71 one, to have failed, and Esarchaddon the King of Assyria to have again subjected the Balylonians to his Kingdom; and his reason is, for that he who followed at the end of this Inter-regnum is by Ptolomy called Assara∣dinus, which he thinketh to differ onely from Esarchaddon in the sound of severall Languages. If so, this is he, who brought out of the East Country, Strangers to inhabite Samaria, whence Salmanesser had, 40 or more years before, transported the Ephramites. He is also, by the posterity of this new Colonie, called the great and noble Asnapper. But how this Assyrian Kingdom had sprung up again, during these two Principalities of the Baby∣lonians and Medes, is to be considered.

* 1.7217. It is not probable that the vast Empire of Sardanapalus was all (nor perhaps the greatest part) subject to Media and Babylon; but that, although Arbaces left not the Medes to their liberty, yet severall people he did, for want of power to keep them under: Hence in some time the people beyond Euphrates, wearie of that anarchie and confusion, under which they labou∣red, might be willing to admit of a Prince again, though not of the old stock of Belus; whose successors having far excelled in power and dominion, the Greeks accounted Sardanapalus the last King of the Assyrians. Who this new Prince should be, remaineth very obscure. One(f) 1.73 thinketh him that same Phul,* 1.74 who made an incursion into the Land of Israel, in the time of Menachem, fixing the beginning of his reign, in the 4^th Olympiad, 17 years before that of Nabonasar. Another(g) 1.75 will have Tiglah-Pileser (or Thilgath-Pilneser, or Theglath-Phalassar) to be the man (in Aelian, he saith, called Thilganus) whom also he accounteth the same with Ninus Ju∣nior, mentioned by Eusebius(h) 1.76 having assumed the name of the first foun∣der of the Assyrian Empire. This Tiglath-Pilesar,* 1.77 at the invitation of Judah, went up against Rezen(i) 1.78 King of Damascus, and killing him transported his Subjects into Kir, a place (as Josephus will have it) of upper Media. He died when he had reigned 19 years, and was succeeded by Sal∣manasser;* 1.79 to whom(k) 1.80 Hosea King of Israel refused to pay tribute, en∣tring into confederacie with So King of Aegypt against him: But Salmanas∣ser besieged him in Samaria, and at the end of three years, taking the City, carried the Israelites into captivity into Chelach, Cheber, and Nehar-gesan,* 1.81 Cities of Media, where he, as well as his predecessor, might have power, if, (Deioces, as yet not having obtain'd the Kingdom) that Country was still subject to a popular Government, or rather in a confused Anarchie.

18. After the subversion of the Kingdom of Israel, he overran all Phoe∣nicia and Syria. He sent an Army against the Tyrians at such time as Elulae∣us their King made War upon the Cittaeans which had rebelled; but a peace was presently made, and he drew back his Forces. Not long after Sidon, Arce, Palaetyrus, and other Towns revolted from the Tyrians to him; so that they alone standing out, he returned, and having a supplie of 60 ships from the Phoenicians, ingaged with them in a Sea-fight; but they having but 12, yet overthrew his Fleet, and thereby obtained great credit. At his return, he set guards upon the River, and water-courses, and there kept them five years together, which constrained them to make a shift with Wells and Pits, as Menander(l) 1.82 related out of the Tyrian Annals, translated into the Greek tongue, wherein the name of Salmanasar was recorded. Salmanasar dying Senacherib his Son succeeded him,* 1.83 called also Sargon in(m) 1.84 Scripture, as some think. He infested all Asia and Aegypt with War; into the later of which, as he descended, in his retreat he sore(n) 1.85 distressed Hezekiah King of Judah, who making his application unto his God, obtained delive∣rance, to the confusion of the Assyrian and his Army. Herodotus telleth a story, How when he came to Pelusium,(o) 1.86 Sethes the Priest of Vulcan then King of Aegypt, by his prayer to his god, procured all the habilaments of War to be

eaten with Mice; so that being rendred unable to fight, he was forced to draw back his Army.* 1.87 But the Prophecies against Egypt ascertain us that this expedition proved very dysastrous to it, and that many Captives were thence led away, which the Priests, from whom Herodotus had his informa∣tion, hid this, and all other things that tended to the dishonour of their Countrey.

19. Returning from Aegypt into Palaestine, he besieged(p) 1.88 Lachish, and thence removed to Libnah, where he wrote a blasphemous Letter to Heze∣kiah. For hearing that Tirhakah King of Aethiopia (or Arabia) (by Jose∣phus called Tharsices, by Strab••, Tearkon) was coming against him in be∣half of the Egyptians, he removed for fear, and God sent his Angel into his Camp, who slew in one night 85000 men, which thing as a plague was also recorded by(q) 1.89 Berosus. Then returned he (as God had promised Heze∣kiah) with great consternation into his own Land, where raging against the Jews that dwelt at Niniveh (if credit be to begiven to the book of ••ob••) he was after 44 dayes slain in the Temple of his idol Nisroch, by his two sons A∣d••amelech and Sharezer, (who fled for it into the Land of Ararat, or Ar∣menia) and Esarchaddon his son reigned in his stead.

* 1.9020. This Esarchaddon is thought (and that probably) to be the same with Assaradinus mentioned by Ptolomy in his Catalogue of Kings, and who sub∣dued Babylon. It is also thought that(r) 1.91 this is he, who when he brought a new Colony into Samaria from Babylon, Cathah, Ana, Hamath, and Se∣pharvaim, at the same time making an inroad into Judaea, (as 'tis very pro∣bable) took(s) 1.92 Menasseh the King thereof in the Thorns, and carried him in Captivity into Babylon; for it appeareth from both these passages men∣tioned in Scripture, that at this time that Citie was subject to the King of Assyria. After Esarchaddon (or Assaradinus) had reigned thirteen years, Saosduchinus succeeded him according to Ptolomy;* 1.93 and not Mero••ach whom the general opinion will have, (being King of Babylon) to have killed him, and again overthrown the Empire of the Assyrians. For this succession is founded upon a feigned(t) 1.94 Author imposed on the World, with several others of the same credit, and therefore deserveth to be rejected. The time of this Saosduchinus falling in with that of Deioces (who according to Hero∣dotus built Ecbatane the Metropolis of Media) if any credit be to be given to the book of Judith, we may judge him to be that Nabuchadonosor men∣tioned there to have overthrown Arphaxad, King of the Medes, and builder of that Citie, in the great plains of Ragan. After he had taken him in the Mountains, he slew him; plundred Ecbatane, and then returned victorious∣ly unto Niniveh, where he feasted his Army for 120 dayes. The year af∣ter, entring into Consultation how to subdue the several Nations about him; he ordained Holophernes his General, who straitly besieging Bethsara, a Town of Judaea; by the wisdom and courage of Judith, the Widdow of one Manasses of the Tribe of Ephraim, was circumvented, and had his head cut off in his Tent.

* 1.9521. Saosduchinus, (or Saosducmus) having reigned twenty years, Chuni∣ladanus succeeded him, thought also to be the same with Saracus, men∣tioned by Alexander Polyhistor. Against him came(u) 1.96 Phraortes, the son of Deioces in revenge of his father's death; after he had first of all others sub∣dued the Persians, and the rest of Asia. But his good fortune here forsook him, and he perished with the greatest part of his Army, in the 22 year of his reign. His son Cyaxares succeeding is said to have been more puissant then his Ancestors, and the first that distinguished the people of Asia into several Provinces, and Souldiers into their several ranks of Pike-men, Hors∣men, and those that used Darts. He fought with the Lydians; at which time so great an Eclipse of the Sun hapned, that the day seemed to be turned into night. Having brought to his obedience all Asia, beyond the River Halys, he gathered his forces together, and went against Nineveh with in∣tentions to destroy the Citie. He overthrew the Assyrians in battel and be∣sieged the place; but it hapned at this time that a great Army of Scythians

having driven the Cimmerians out of Europe,* 1.97 under conduct of Madyes, the son of Protothya, (called otherwise Judathyrsus) their King, still followed them, and from the Lake Mae••is, leaving the Mountain Caucasus on their right hand, pierced into Media.

22. Cyaxares hereby was constrained to raise his siege, went, and gave them battel; but was overthrown, and lost the Dominion of Asia, which the Scythians having obtained, marched straight for Egypt. Psammetichus the King met them on their way, when they had new entred Palaestine, and by good words backed with money prevailed with them to go no further. They enjoyed the Dominion of Asia 28 years; after the expiration of which term, managing their affairs with as great neglect as formerly they had used dili∣gence in polling and rifling the Countrey; the greatest part of them being entertained by Cyaxares, were made drunken and slain, and the King reco∣vered his Dominion.* 1.98 During these things,(x) 1.99 Nabopolassar a Babylonian, and General to the Assyrian King contracted affinity with Astyages the son of Cyaxares, and Governour of Media: Nebucadnesar the son of Nabopo∣lassar marrying Amylis daughter to Astyages. The effect of this alliance was that they joyntly set upon Baracus, or Chynaladanus in Niniveh, and taking the Citie slew him therein, after he had reigned 22 years. At this time the Prophecies against Niniveh seem to be fulfilled in its destruction. For in the latter end of the Greek book of Tobia•• it is written that Nebu∣chadonosor and Assuerus took Niniveh, Tobias being yet alive, who is said to have lived 127 years (or, as the Latine hath it, 99.) 95 having already passed from the taking of Samaria; at which time he was carried Captive with his father into Assyria by Salmanasar.

* 1.10023. Chynaladanus being dead, Nabopolassar (or Nabulassar) obtained his Kingdom in the 123th year of Nabonasar, according to(y) 1.101 Ptolomy, whose Canon of Kings also (as to the term of years collected from the par∣ticular reign of each) directly answereth to this account.(z) 1.102 Against him came up Pharoh Necho, and took Carchemish, a Citie situate upon Euphra∣tes, killing Josiah the King of Judah, who attempted to stop his passage, He holding this Town, the(a) 1.103 Governour of Coelosyria and Phoenicia re∣volted from the Babylonian, who being now unable to undergo the trouble of War made his son Nebuchadnesar King with him in his 17^th year, and sent him with an Army to subdue Egypt and Syria; with him joyned(b) 1.104 Asi∣bares, King of the Medes, whom some think to be Cyaxares, and others more probably Astyages his son. In this expedition he made Jehojakin King of Judah, his tributary and drew him from the obedience of Egypt; which Ne∣cho taking in disdain, came up against him and ingaging once more at Car∣chemi••h was overthrown and slain, as may be gathered out of Scripture.(c) 1.105 Whilest Nebuchadnesar was prosecuting his victories, overrunning all from the River of Egypt to the River Euphrates; in the mean(d) 1.106 time his father being sick at Babylon, died. After he had reigned 21 years, as it is now in the Catalogue,* 1.107 for which some learned men think 29 is to be read. He understanding hereof disposed of the affairs of Egypt and other Countreys, and giving order for the conveyance of the Judaean, Syrian, Phoenician, and Egyptian prisoners, he himself made haste through the desart, and took pos∣session of the Government reserved for him by the Caldaeans.

* 1.10824. He distributed the Captives into Colonies about Babylon, adorned the Temple of Belus (which Semiramis had built) with the spoyls; repaired and increased the buildings of the Citie, and fortified the Channel of the River, that the Enemy should not make use of it against the Town. He ad∣ded a new Citie to the old, and compassed both with three Walls of brick. He raised divers remarkable aedifices, built a new Pallace, and about it a Garden, or Wildernesse, so much celebrated by the Graecians. His wife be∣ing a Mede, and, according to the nature of her Countrey, delighting in Mountainous Woody prospects, brought him to imitate with Art what was wanting in the plains of Babylon. This Garden was made four-square,* 1.109 ta∣king up in compasse sixteen Acres, in heighth equalling the Walls, set with

tall and beautifull Trees. It was born up by stone-Pillars;* 1.110 upon which a pave∣ment of four-squared stones being laid, Earth was heaped up in great quan∣tity, and Engines were made for the conveying of moisture out of Euphrates to water it. The Trees that grew upon it were (many of them) eight Cu∣bits in compasse at the bole; and fifty foot high, bearing fruit as plentifully as in their Native soyl.* 1.111 Jehojakim the King of Judah rebelling against Nebu∣chadnesar, he came up against him, wasted the Countrey, and, taking him, cast him out unburied as the Prophet Jeremiah had foretold.* 1.112 Four moneths af∣ter, he also carried away Captive, Jechonias, or Jehojachim his son,* 1.113 and made Mattaniah his Uncle King in his stead. This Mattaniah, whom he named Zedekiah, rebelled against him notwithstanding his solemne Oath of fealty taken at his institution, and therefore in the eleventh year of his reign he was also taken by the Babylonian, had his eyes put out, and was so car∣ried to Babylon: the Temple and Citie were burnt with fire, and the people led into Captivity, as will appear in its proper place.

* 1.11425. Nebuchadnesar returning home was exceeding proud, and puffed up at his successe. He erected a great Image of Gold;* 1.115 in the Dedication where∣of all his chief Officers were commanded to fall down and worship which was obeyed by all except three Jews, Shadrach, Meshach, and Ab••n••go, the companions of Daniel. For their punishment they were cast into a fiery Furnace, heated seven times hotter then usual, and so miraculously pre∣served from the fury of the flame, that not an hair of their heads was sindg'd; though it killed those that cast them in. At this, the King astonished, by publick edict acknowledged Gods power, and forbad the blaspheming of him. Yet repented he not of his pride, and, notwithstanding a sufficient warning given him by God in a dream, exalted himself in the conceit of the great∣nesse and splendour of Babel, which he had built for the house of the King∣dom, by the might of his power, and for the honour of his Majesty. But the same hour, as he was answered by a voice from Heaven, the Kingdom de∣parted from him,* 1.116 he was driven from men, made to eat grasse as Oxen, and his body was wet with the Dew of Heaven, till his hairs were grown as Eagles feathers, and his Nails like Birds Claws; and seven times passed over him, till he knew that the Most High ruleth in the Kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will. And this time prefixed being expired (seven years as most suppose, though some reckon but three and an half, counting for times, Winter and Summer) his reason returned to him, with the glory of his Kingdom, his Honour, and Brightnesse, his Councellors and his Lords sought unto him, he was established in his Kingdom, and excellent Majesty was added to him. Therefore he shamed not by a publick writing to own the thing; praised, honoured, and extolled the King of Heaven, all whose works he confessed to be truth, his wayes judgement, and that those that walk in pride he is able to abase.

* 1.11726. Of these strange passages the Heathen were not utterly ignorant.(e) 1.118 Abydenus wrote, that, being exceeding proud, and going up upon his Pal∣lace, he was taken with a Divine fury. This he had out of the Annals of the Caldaeans, who fancied him to have been seized on with a prophetick spirit, and so to have vanished.(f) 1.119 Megasthenes in his fourth book of Judaea, en∣deavoured to shew how this King in valiant exploits exceeded Hercules by far; that he subdued the chief Citie of Africk, and a good part of Spain. Diocles, in his second book of Persia, made mention of him, and Philostra∣tus both in his Histories of Phoenicia and India; writing that he fought against Tyre thirteen years, which 'tis probable, at length he took by compo∣sition and there placed Baal King in the room of Ithobalus. What he did against this Citie, God, taking as service done to himself,* 1.120 promised him the Land of Egypt for his wages, which we must accordingly believe to have been paid. At length, having foretold that Babylon should be lost to Cyrus, as Abydenus wrote; he died, after he had reigned 43 years, being in Ptolomies Catalogue of Kings, called Nabocolassar, which may be corrupt∣ly written for Nabocodolassar.

* 1.12127. Evilmerodach his Son succeeded him, who lifted up the head of Je∣hoiakim King of Judah, in the 37th year of his Captivity,* 1.122 spake kindly unto him, set his Throne above the Throne of the Kings that were with him in Babylon and changing his prison garments, allowed him a continuall diet all the dayes of his life. But for his wickednesse and debaucheries, he conti∣nued not long,* 1.123 being circumvented by Neriglissor his Sister's Husband, and slain when he had raigned but two years. Neriglissor after his death, reigned 4. After him came his Son Laborosardochus,* 1.124 who being of an untowardly disposition, was made away by his Relations, after nine months, and they preferred to his place one Nabonidus a Babylonian, by Ptolomy called Nabo∣nadius, by others Nabannidochus and Labynitus. [(g) 1.125 Who reigned 17 years, for which some think 27 is to be read.] This succession we have from Berosus the Caldaean, attested by Ptolomy, who yet leaveth out Laborosar∣dochus, either for his small continuance, or because he reigned together with his Father. But learned Men do not agree in the manner of reconciling this History with what Daniel hath written of Belshazar.* 1.126 Some will have Za∣bynitus or Nabonodus, to be Belshazar, Nabonodus being the last of the Kings, which Belshazar also seemeth to be; at his death, Babylon being taken by Cyrus, as the interpretation of the writing on the wall hinteth: Peres, thy Kingdom is divided, and given to the Medes and Persians. As for Da∣rius the Mede, he seemeth to them to be no other then Cyaxares the Son of Astyages King of Media, and the Uncle of Cyrus, who of his own accord delivered Babylon to him: and they think this sufficient to prove that Labo∣rosardochus could not bee Belshazar, because hee hath but nine months assigned him by Berosus, whereas we read in Daniel of the third year of Belshazar.

28. Others think they have ground enough to denie Nabonidus to be Bel∣shazar, who is called the Son of Nebuchadnesar; in regard no such relation is mentioned by Berosus, that can intitle him to so much as his grand-child, which Laborosardochus was by his Daughter, being called his Son by a com∣mon Hebraism: For the Latin version of Josephus which maketh Nabono∣dus of the blood; it is in no case agreeable to the Originall which plainly re∣lateth him to have been of the* 1.127 conspiracy. For the 5^th year of Belshazar it well enough agreeth with Laborosardochus, because he reigned 4 years, with his Father, and, after his Father's death, nine moneths by himself. Now the History of Daniel onely relateth Belshazar to have been slain; not that Babylon was then besieged by Cyrus: it being improbable, say they, that a time of so great danger, the King and his Nobles should spend in feast∣ing and jollity; but rather likely, that behaving himselfe too insolently in that drunken fit, he was knocked in the head by his Companions, as Bero∣sus* 1.128 hinteth, and the Scripture rather seemeth to approve than contradict. As for the interpretation of the Writing on the wall, it might note what was already determined▪ and within a little time was to be accomplished concer∣ning Cyrus the Persian, who being at that time known to the World, could not be hid from Daniel, who had met with his name long before in the Pro∣phesie of Isaiah, and had his mind, without doubt, fixed upon the 70 years of Captivity foretold by Jeremiah, to which a period should shortly be put by that person. That Darius Medus was of Median descent appeareth, but that he was King of the Medes can no way be evinced; especially seeing that no antient Greek Historian maketh mention of Cyaxares the Son of Asty∣ages, (whom we read to have had but one Daughter) except Xenophon; and he either one purpose seemeth to thwart Herodotus, or to have written his Cyropaedia, rather(h) 1.129 to shew what a Prince ought to be, than what Cyrus was indeed, and so to have taken some of that liberty of invention which o∣thers(i) 1.130 have done of late upon the same and other Subjects. But though Joseph Scaliger may seem to show more reason for this later assertion, yet Pererius truly affirmeth the thing to be obscure, perplexed, and difficult.

29. If Laborosardochus bee taken for Belshazar, then Nabono∣dus must be the same with Darius Medus; whom further, some would have

to be the Brother of Astyages, not his Son, and yet called Cyaxares. In him the Empire of the Babylonians ceased, and was derived upon the Per∣sians by Cyrus, whose first beginnings are to be viewed, with the progresse of his actions,* 1.131 which made way to that pitch of greatnesse whereat he arrived. Herein Historians do not relate the same things. That Astyages was his Grand-father is acknowledged by all, except Ctesias, who will have them nothing akin, and calleth him Astyigas: His Father's name is granted to be Cambyses, his Country Persia, but his condition is diversly reported of. Herodotus writeth how Astyages dreaming two dreams concerning his Daugh∣ter Mandane,* 1.132 (which by the Wizards were interpreted to portend the losse of his Kingdom, through the greatnesse of her issue) gave her in marriage to one Cambyses a Persian of obscure fortune; and not satisfied in this secu∣rity, sent for her when she was with child, and as soon as the Boy was born, gave him to one Harpagus to be made away. Harpagus fearing he might afterwards be called to an account by the Mother, for violence offered to the Babe, delivered him to the King's Shepherd, to be exposed in the Woods un∣to the mercie of wild beasts. This being done, and the Shepherd's Wife lately brought to bed of a stil-born child; she prevailed with her Husband to fetch him home; nursed and brought him up as her own Son amongst the Shepherds. At seven years of age being chosen King of the Boyes in their play, he executed the office with severity, towards such as were disobedient, and for this was complained of by their Parents to the King. Being sent for and accused of the crime, he would acknowledge none, alledging he had done like a King; and standing in his justification without the least change of countenance, Astyages was struck with admiration, and presently called to mind his dream. Upon examination of the Shepherd, he got out the whole matter; owned him for his Grand-son, because he thought the dream ful∣filled in his boyish reign amongst the Shepherds; onely he thought it good to send him out of the way into Persia.

30. But to punish Harpagus for his disobedience, he invited him to sup∣per, and caused to be served up to the table his onely Son; of which, after he had eaten heartily, and approved the meat, he let him see his entertain∣ment, by the head, hands, and feet, reserved in another platter. Harpa∣gus for the present kept down his passion, seeming to acquiesce in the King's pleasure, untill Cyrus came to man's estate. Then, hearing of his activity and forwardnesse, he resolved by presents to make him his friend, meditating a convenient way of revenge by the means of this Youth, from whom he expected something answerable to his Grandfather's dream. Knowing Asty∣ages his tyrannicall carriage towards the Medes, he insinuated himself into the chief of them by degrees, and secretly perswaded them, that it was con∣venient he should be removed from the Government; especially seeing they might with some plausibility place Cyrus in his Seat. Having thus made War, he wrote Letters to the young Man, into Persia, (which, to prevent discovery, he sowed up in the belly of an Hare) wherein recalling to his memorie what he had suffered from his Grandfather upon his account, he sol∣licited him to draw the Persians to revolt; then to come down with an Ar∣my into Media, where he might be sure of him or any other the Kings Ge∣nerals, and so easily become Master of all.

31. Cyrus considering of a way how to accomplish this businesse, which now he made no lesse than a design, called the Persians together; first gave out that he was chosen their Generall by Astyages, and then easily perswaded them, by laying open, how much Liberty was to be preferred before that Slavery they now underwent, to close with him and break out into open rebel∣lion. The old Man hearing of this, sent a messenger for him; but he re∣turned answer, he would come sooner than he should have cause to desire his company; whereupon he armed his Subjects of Media, and forgetting how he had formerly injured Harpagus, committed the Army to his conduct. Harpagus revolting, he lost thereby the first Battell; yet was not daunted, but threatened Cyrus, nailed to crosses the Magicians, who had perswaded

him to dismisse him, and arming all both old and young that were in the Ci∣ty, led them out to a second engagement,* 1.133 wherein his successe was worse than before, he being taken prisoner. When Harpagus, boasting of his revenge, insulted over him, he taxed him of imprudence and injustice: of the one, for that having power to make himselfe King he should transfer the dignity to another; and of the other, because, for to revenge a private injury, he had enslaved the whole Nation of the Medes, out of which he might rather have chosen one to the Kingdom, refusing it himselfe, than him who would now so order the matter, that the Persians, slaves before, should be Lords and Masters of all. Thus Astyages lost his Kingdom, after he had held it 35 years, enjoying all things else at his Grandson's hands, till his naturall death: And the Medes became subject to the Persians, after they had enjoyed the do∣minion of Asia beyond the River Halys, the space of 128 years, (except that space wherein the Scythians kept them under) in the 2d year of the 55^th Olympiad, of the World 3446.

32. Cyrus having obtained the soveraignty of Persia and Media,* 1.134 was within a while provoked by Croesus King of Lydia,* 1.135 who at this time was grown eminent, having improved the inheritance which descended upon him from his Ancestors.

* 1.136The Lydian Nation was of great antiquity, so named from Lud the Son of Sem, or rather descended of him who by Moses is so called;* 1.137 both he and they having obtained this name from that Country, which from the crooked∣nesse and winding of the River Maeander took the appellation of Lud, in the Phoenician Language signifying crooked or winding: The Greeks say,(k) 1.138 that the Lydians were first called Maeones; and Lydia Maeonia, from Maeon, an antient King of Phrygia and Lydia, who was thought to have been the Father of Cybeles, Mother of the gods, and that long after him reigned Lydus the Son of Atys, and Brother of Tyrrhenus, from whom they fancie the Country to have been named. Better is the opinion of Ste∣phanus, who deriveth Maeonia from the River Maeon or Maeander. For, though the Greeks might call them Lydians, yet that their right name was Ludians, appeareth from the Latin words, Ludus, Ludo, Ludio, &c. thence derived; seeing it is granted, that the first Players came form(l) 1.139 Ly∣dia into Hetruria, so to Rome, as the Lydians(m) 1.140 boasted themselves to have been inventors of those Games, which afterwards were common with them to the Greeks. Hence it appeareth, that though the Country might be called both Lydia and Maeonia, from the selfesame thing; yet most ancient was the name of Lud. After the Posterity of Lydus, reigned the Heracli∣dae or those that were descended from Hercules, by his Son Alcaeus. The first was Argon, saith Herodotus, the Son of Ninus, Grand-son of Belus, and great Grand-son of Alcaeus; the last was Candaules the Son of Myrsus, by the Greeks called Myrsitus. Candaules(n) 1.141 or Candylos, signified a certain kind of Lydian meat made of Flowre, Cheese, Honey, Bread, and Flesh; the Lydians being accounted the first(o) 1.142 of all Nations, that busied them∣selves in Cookery, insomuch that they became a Proverb for it.

33. The Antiquity of the Lydians appeareth further out of the antient Fables; Attis, Tamalus, Pelops, Niobe and Arachne, being of this Coun∣try: Their fruitfulnesse, from the Colonies they sent out into Peloponnesus and Caria, into Etruria also, as they say.* 1.143 Their valour and power is shewn to have been of great antiquity from their holding the dominion of the Sea 92 years, which they took from the Cretians about the time of Jepthe, and 1200 years before Christ,* 1.144 losing it again and recovering it afterwards. But Can∣daules with his Family being extinct, and the Kingdom devolved upon the Mermnadae (of whom Croesus descended) the power of the Nation grew greater also at Land. These Heraclidae, held it the space of 505 years, through 22 Successors unto this Candaules,* 1.145 who so far being enamoured of his Wife as he esteemed her the most beautifull of all women, constrained his servant Gyges to see her naked. She espying Gyges whilst therein he onely satisfied his Masters will, offered him the choice of killing her husband, and

marrying her with the Kingdom, or of suffering death himselfe; one of their two lives being the least she could require in way of Justice. He, in so great a strait, preferring his own safety before his Master's life, slew him in his bed-chamber, the place where the fault was commited, and so enjoyed the Queen with the Kingdom; wherein he was confirmed by the Oracle of D••l∣phos, to the sentence of which, he and his adversaries had agreed to stand.

34. Gyges reigned 38 years, in which space he made War upon Miletus, and Smyrna, and took the City Colophon. Ardys his Son and Successor subdued Priene, fought against Miletus; and in his time the Cimmerians being expelled their seats by the Scythian Nomades, passed into Asia, and took Sardis, all but the Castle. He reigned 49 years. His Son Sadyattes 12, who gave place to Alyattes his Son and Successor. Alyattes waged War with* 1.146 Cyaxares King of Media, and expelled the Cimmerians out of Asia, took Smyrna, and set upon Cl••zomenae. In the 6^th year of the War betwixt the Median and him, whilst they fought upon equall terms, the Sun was eclipsed, which Thales, one of the 7 wise men, had foretold to his Milesians. Both the armies seing the day beginning to be turned into night, left off fighting and then by the mediation of Syennesis the Cilician, and Labynitus the Ba∣bylonian a peace was concluded; Ariena the Daughter of Halyattes being marryed to Astyages the Son of Cyaxares. From the Tables of Ptolomy (or of Hipparchus) it appeareth that this Eclipse happened in the 4^th year of the 44^th Olympiad, the 147^th of Nabonasar, the 4^th day of the Aegyptian month Pachon, (which answereth to the 20^th of September) 3 hours and 25 minutes before noone; 9 digits being eclipsed, and the duration almost 2 hours. Halyattes pursued also the War left him by his Father, against Miletus, the Inhabitants whereof received from him two great blows, for that none of the Ionians helped them, except the Chians, in way of requitall for the aide they had afforded them against the Erythraeans. At length, having notice that he intended to send a messenger into the City, at the command of Thrasy∣bulus their Prince, they brought all the provision they had into the market-place; which appearing to be much, and as such related to A••yattes, he thinking himselfe mistaken in his former belief of their distressed condition, made Peace with them; and died after he had reigned 57 years.

35. Croesus his Son suceeded him at the age of 35 years.* 1.147 He made War upon Ephesus, which when he besieged, the Towns-men for their security, gave up the City to Diana, by a rope fastned from the wall to her Temple; but for all this he brought them under and subdued all the rest of the Greek Cities in the continent. He brought into his subjection all the people of Asia within the River Hulis, as the Phrygians, Mysians, B••thynians, Paphlago∣nians, the Mariandyni, Chalibes, Thracians, Thyni, Carians, Ionians, Dorians, Aeolians, Lycians, and Cilicians. Being grown great, and flow∣ing with wealth, and flourishing with glory, the choisest wits of Greece floc∣ked to Sardis, and amongst the rest Solon the Athenian, who being now in his travells, had been with Amesis of Aegypt, and now came to visite Croe∣sus. He kindly entertained him, and, shewing him his treasures, out of a vain conceit of his own felicity, demanded of him, Whom he thought the happiest Man. He answered, he esteemed for such, one Tellus an Athenian, who having lived in good credit, and leaving divers Children and Nephews of honest and virtuous cariage, died in the War at Eleusine, after he had first helped to put to flight the enemy; for which he was honoured by his Citizens with a publick and stately funerall. Croesus expecting, if not the first, yet the second place, asked him, Whom he accounted next to Tellus. He replied Cleobis and ••iton, two brothers of Argos, who had sufficient to live on, and being very strong, had gotten the better in tryall of Masteries. On a time at the feast of Juno, their Mother being to be drawn in a Chariot to the Temple, and the Heiffers not at hand, they yoked themselves, and drew her thither. She being much affected with the piety of her Sons, praied the Goddesse that whatsoever was best for Man, might be bestowed on them, who sleeping that night in the Temple, were found dead in the morning, and honoured by

the Argives with two Statues, erected to their memory at Delphos.

36. The King was troubled that his felicity should be so little valued, as not comparable to that of private men. But Solon plainly told him, that all things were uncertain in this life, and no man ought to be accounted happy til his End; for which Philosophy, as strange to the Courtiers, he was dismissed with small reputation for learning. Croesus, growing exceeding proud and irreli∣gious; to humble him, had a dream▪ that the choisest of his two Sons, (where∣of one was dumb) should be slain with the iron head of some weapon. Here∣upon he removed all things of that nature out of the way, looked to him dili∣gently, and marryed him out of hand. But at this time it hapned, that a cer∣tain wild Boar haunted about the Mountain Olympus in Mysia, which doing great harm to the Inhabitants, they were in no wise able to master, and there∣fore sent to Croesus, desiring him to send his Son, accompanied with a suffici∣ent train, to hunt and kill the Wild beast. He plainly denied, because of his dream, to let him stir from home; but the young Man, having a great desire to the exercise, thereby to approve himselfe for activity to his new mar∣ried wife, obtained leave to be sent, saying, that no such thing would be used in the game as that of which he had dreamed. He committed him then to the care of one Adrastus the Son of Gordius (and he of Midas) King of Phrygia, who having at unawares killed his brother, had been banished by his his Father. When they came into the field, and had dislodged the Boar, Adra∣stus throwing a dart at him, chanced to hit the young Man, and so fulfilled the dream; for which, offering himselfe to be killed, upon Croesus his refu∣sall, as done without any intention, he yet slew himselfe. Croesus took the accident very heavily, and kept himselfe in mourning two years.

37. This mourning was broken off by the prosperity of Cyrus, who ha∣ving now overthrown the Kingdom of the Medes, advanced highly the affairs of Persia. Herein he found himselfe exceedingly concerned, so as to with∣stand, if possible, his successe, and make an addition thereby to his own For∣tune. For encouragement in this design,* 1.148 he sent to enquire of the Oracles far and near; which answering with one consent, that he should overturn a great Principality, he was much incouraged, not doubting but that of the Persians was meant thereby; and much more after the Oracle at Delphos, had (in answer to his requiry, whether his Empire should long continue) bid him look to himselfe, when a Mule should have possession of the Soveraignty of Media; taking this in a literall sense, notwithstanding the constant ambi∣guity of such answers. Now (the Oracle giving way to it) he sent to make a League with the Lacaedemonians, who being obliged to him, easily compli∣ed; though no supplies do we read of sent to him. For he, being in great haste, prevented the sending of any; and, with all the force he could make, in∣vaded Cappadocia,* 1.149 to revenge, as he pretended, upon Cyrus, the injurie of∣fered to Astyages his Brother in Law; but indeed to lay that fertile Coun∣try to his own Dominions. Having passed the River Hayis, he came into a place of Cappadocia called Pteria, the most safe of all the Country, near to the City Sinop••, which was situated upon the Euxine Sea. Taking up his quarters here, he made incursions, took the City of the Pterians, with all the rest round about, and banished the Syrians (so were the Cappadocians called by the Greeks, till subjected to the Persian Empire) though they had nothing ill deserved at his hands.

38. Cyrus coming against him sent to the Ionians, to draw them to his party; but they standing off, he proceeded, and pitcht his Camp against Croesus. After some skirmishes the Armies ingaged, and a very hot dispute continued till night parted them, many falling on both sides. Croesus, though neither party owned any defeat, was blamed by his Soldiers for ingaging with so numerous an Army; so that, Cyrus not stirring out against him the next day, he thought it best to retreat to Sardis, and sent out of hand for aide to Amesis King of Aegypt, and Labynitus of Babylon, whom he had by a League obliged to him: to the Lacedaemonians also to dispatch their Auxili∣aries within 5. month, with which resting that winter, he would re-invade

the Persians the following Spring.* 1.150 Accordingly he dismissed all his merce∣naries standing then in no need of them, as he thought; which Cyrus hearing, resolved with all speed to follow him to Sardis, hoping he might utterly de∣feat him before he could recollect his Forces: and accordingly marching into Lydia he prevented any message of his coming. Croesus, though exceedingly perplexed at so unexpected a thing, gathered his subjects together, as time would give leave, and provided for his defence; which the other percei∣ving, and fearing the power of his Horse (wherein the Lydians excelled all other people of Asia) took off the burthens from all the Camels, that follow∣ed the Camp, and setting Riders upon them, placed them in the front; the smell of which (when the Armies joyned) the Horses not enduring, turned aside.* 1.151 Yet were not the Riders thereby deterred from fighting, but, dis∣mounting, performed on Foot what could be expected, till over-powered rather with number then valour, they were put to flight, and besieged in the Citie.* 1.152

39. Croesus thinking he might possibly be able to hold out some consider∣able time, sent again to his confederates to hasten their succours. But Cy∣rus on the fourteenth day of the siege offering a great reward to him that should first mount the Wall, one Hyraeades, a Mardian, having taken notice of a place, which because of its heighth and precipitancy was held impreg∣nable, and therefore neglected by the besieged (where yet he had seen a Souldier come down to fetch his Helmet he had let fall) made means to climb up, and after him more and more followed, till the Citie was thereby surprized.* 1.153 All places being full of slaughters, a Souldier not knowing Croe∣sus, was about to kill him; which he neglected, as willing to dye with his Kingdom. But his dumb son, affrighted at the danger he saw him in,* 1.154 is said to have broken silence (or dumbnesse) with this expression; Man, do not kill Croesus, and thenceforth to have enjoyed the use of his tongue. Thus Croesus overturned a great principality, as the Oracle had foretold, after he had reign∣ed fourteen years,* 1.155 and been besieged so many dayes. Cyrus adjudged him to death, and had burnt him alive, but that he, almost too late, remembred the words of the wise Law-giver of Athens, and cried out Solon, Solon, Solon! Cyrus commanded the Interpreters to demand of him whom he invocated (thinking it to be some God he mentioned): to which he answered, when com∣pelled to speak, that he named one whom rather then any thing, he would have to speak with all Princes; and, being urged to explain himself, told the whole story concerning the discourse betwixt him and Solon.* 1.156 Herewith the Conquerour was so affected, that, considering the uncertainty of his own prosperous condition, though the pile was already kindled, yet command∣ed he the fire to be quenched, and receiving him into his most inward coun∣sels, held him ever most dear, and in great esteem for his wisdom; where∣in, after such manifold experience, he excelled. This hapned in the fourth year of the 58 Olympiad, the fifteenth year of the reign of Cyrus.* 1.157 A. M. 3460.

40. When the Ionians and Aeolians heard that Croesus,* 1.158 with so little a ado, was utterly subdued, they sent to Cyrus, offering to put themselves into his hands, on the same terms as the Lydians were received; but he returned them no satisfactory answer, because of their refusal formerly to joyn with him. All of them then, (except the Milesians, those having yielded them∣selves) made their application to the Lacedaemonians, who refused to grant any aide; but sent some to make discovery how matters went in Asia. The Messengers finding Cyrus at Sardis, according to order, acquainted him with the pleasure of that Republick, Not to suffer him to molest any of the Greek Cities. He enquiring what the Lacedaemonians were, presently sleighted them, and answered, That, if the Gods preserved him, they should have cause to bewail their own calamities, and not busie themselves with what concerned the Ionians. He committed Sardis to the custody of Tabalus, a Persian; to Pactyas a Lydian, the Treasure of Croes••s and others: and so set out for Ecbatane, making little account of the Ionians (against whom he in∣tended

to send some Lieutenant) in comparison of Babylon, the Bactrians, Sacae and Egyptians, upon all which he had cast an hungry eye with purpose to invade them. After his departure Pactyas revolted,* 1.159 and drawing into Rebellion the Maritime Coasts, besieged Tabacus; whereat Cyrus being angry, as esteeming it a plot of the Lydians, Croesus fearing worse things might come upon them, after an excuse of the generality, advised him to take from them the use of Arms, and enure them to effeminate courses whereby they would easily be kept under. Cyrus, according to his advise, dispatched away with an Army, one Mazares a Mede, who finding Sardis deserted by Pa∣ctyas, put in execution what Croesus had advised. By this course was brought to passe, that the Lydians, to whom for valour no Nation in Asia could be compared, grew infamous for effeminatenesse and luxury; so that gluttonous(o) 1.160 and voluptuous persons,(p) 1.161 such as made it their profession to afford incitements to debauchery, received Epithets from their name.

41. Pactyas having fled to Cuma, Mazares sent to demand him of the Citizens; but, they dismissing him, he fled to Mytilene, and thence to the Chians,* 1.162 who sold him to Mazares. He then reduced such as had revolted, and harrasing the Countrey of Priene, with that lying upon Maeander and Magnesia, fell sick and died. Harpagus the Mede succeeded him, and out of hand undertook an expedition against the Ionians. The Phocaeans being first besieged obtained truce for a day, and then shipping themselves, left their ancient seat and passed over into the Island Chius, and thence (for that the Chians refused to sell them the Islands Oenusae, lest they should thither carry the Traffick) to Cyrnus, where twenty years before, they had built a Citie called Alalia. Here playing the Pirates, they were after five years defeated in a Sea-fight by the Tyrrhenians and ••ar••haginians, and then those that remained passed over to Rhegium in I••, where they built a Citie na∣med Hye••a, in the Territories of Oenotria. The Teians also, after their exam∣ple departed into Thrace; where they built up a Citie called Abdera, the foundations of it being formerly l••id by one Tem••sius a Clazomenian, whom the Thracians thence expelled.* 1.163 The rest of the Ionians stood it out against Harpagus, who yet utterly subdued and forced them to undergo the yoake the second time, having refused to follow the counsel of B••as the Prienaean, (one of the seven wise-men of Greece), who advised them to shun servi∣tude by going to Sardinia, and there planting themselves in one great and common Citie; as they had formerly re••ected the advice of Thales the Milesian (another of that number) to set up one common Court at Teus in the middle of Ionia. After the Conquest of the Ionians, Harpagus sub∣dued the Carians, Caunians, and Lycians, and brought all the lower Asia under the Dominion and Soveraignty of Cyrus, who in the me••n while not idle, did as much by the upper Provinces; leaving nothing in his way, but clearing all before him.

42. Having Conquered the rest of the Continent he went against the As∣syrians, who, being aware of him, had furnished themselves in Babylon for a long siege.* 1.164 Coming to the River Gyndes (which rising in the Mantienean Mountains, runneth through the Countrey of the Dardaneans, and emptieth it self in Tigris) he could find no fo••rd to passe it, and a certain white Horse, sacred to the Sun, boldly taking the water, was overwhelmed in the Floods. Hereat being exceeding angry, he threatned to reduce it to such a condition, as it should not be knee-deep, and accordingly setting all his Army on work, derived it into 360 Rivolets, in which employment he spent all that Summer. The Spring following he marched for Babylon, the King whereof ••abinitus opposed him▪ but, being defeated, retreated into the Citie, to which he then laid close siege. In vain for a long time did he attempt the taking of it. At length he divided his Army, and leaving the two stronger parts of it, the one at that side of the Town where the River en∣tred, the other there where it came out; with the third he retired into the ad••oyning Fens, and digging great ditches derived the River into them. Hereby he brought it to such an Ebb, that his Souldiers easily passing it, be∣came

Masters of the Citie, and he of the Babylonian or Assyrian Empire. This is the sum of what Herodotus hath written concerning the prosperous fortune of Cyrus.

* 1.16543. Xenophon, contrary to the former story, will have Cambyses his fa∣ther no obscure man; but King of Media: not a word from him of his Grand-father's dream, or exposing of the Infant. When he was twelve years old, he was sent for by Astyages into Media, where having tarried till al∣most a man, and being admired for understanding and abilities far above his age; he returned to his father, and entred into the* 1.166 College of youth, where he was trained up in all strict Discipline according to the customs of Persia. Astyages dying, Cyaxares his son succeeded him, at what time the King of Assyria having subdued all the Syrians, Arabians, Hyrcanians, and had now faln upon the Bactryans, promised himself the absolute Empire of the East; if he could but bring under the Medes and Persians. He sent therefore to all his Neighbours; to Croesus King of Lydia, the King of Cappadocia, to both the Phrygians, Casians, Paphlagonians, Cilicians, and Indians, accu∣sing these two Nations of ambitious designs to enslave them all, and procured them to joyn with him in an offensive and defensive league against them. Cy∣axares hearing this, desired of Cambyses his Brother-in-law to send down Cy∣rus to him with an Army; Cyrus being accordingly chosen General by the people, first subdued the Armenians, who because of this combination of the Princes, had denied to pay their accustomed tribute to Cyaxares, and then perswaded his Uncle to invade the Assyrians, to keep the War from his own doors.

44. Making then an inroade into Assyria the King thereof, Croesus of Lydia, and divers other Confederates came against them, but in the first ingagement were worsted, and beaten back into their Camp, and a∣mongst others the Assyrian himself (Neriglissor, if any) was slain. The night following all brake out of the Fortifications and fled; whereupon Cyrus pre∣vailing with his Uncle to suffer him to pursue them, with as many of the Medes as would follow him of their own accord, in his way entred in∣to confederacy with the Hyrcanians through the conduct of whom he over∣took, and again defeated them: they also slew the Kings of Cappadocia and Arabia. After this, he invaded the Territories of the Babylonians, went up to the Citie it self, and challenged the King to a single Combat, who refu∣sing it, he, after some few skirmishes thereabout, returned to Cyaxares, up∣on the Borders of Media, to deliberate about carrying on the War: He found him greatly discontented at his successe (out of apprehension that he had rob∣bed him of all the glory) and much averse to the War; but at length he ap∣peased him, and so wrought underhand upon the Officers of the Army, that they unanimously voted the War to be carried on. Some time being neces∣sary then for preparation, he chose out a convenient place for the Army's Quarters; and not long after understood by certain Fugitives and Prisoners that the King of Assyria was gone towards Lydia with much Treasure.

45. Cyrus, supposing his design to be for raising men, prepared for the main chance by horsing his Persians, inventing new and more convenient Charriots, and, to get intelligence of the Enemie's purposes, sent one Ara∣spes into Lydia, who, under colour of a revolt, should insinuate himself into their Counsels. This device taking, he disposed of his affairs according as he saw behoofefull, modelled his Army, and marched against the Confederates, whom without any great difficulty he overthrew, all but the Aegyptians. They put him to sore trouble, and endangered his life; but having fall'n in upon their Rear, and thereby diverted the Front, he so overpowered them both behind and before, as glad they were to deliver up their Arms, and upon promise of better entertainment, willing to change Masters and serve him. Croesus now, who commanded in Chief, fled amain to Sardis, whi∣ther Cyrus pursued him, and getting the Castle into his hands, by the help of a Persian, who had been slave to an Officer in it, got possession both of the Citie and its King. He, coming to Cyrus, acquitted the Oracle of Delphos

from all blame, and took the fault upon himself, in that he, overweening of his own condition, had fooled himself continually in a fond opinion of happi∣nesse. After this the Carians falling into two factions, both sent unto him: and he dispatched to them Adusias with some Forces, who overpowering both the one and the other, compounded their differences.

46. Then sent he Hystaspes into Phrygia, who subdued the Country, and took the King prisoner; at what time the Greeks of Asia submitted them∣selves, procuring by gifts, that they should not be constrained to receive any Garrison, but onely pay Tribute, and serve in the Wars. Afterward, in his march to Babylon, he brought under the greater Phrygia, subdued the Cappadocians and Arabians. He sate down before that City with a vast Army, the walls whereof after he had viewed, he concluded there was no storming of it, and resolved the best way was to pine them out. Understan∣ding then, that they were provided within for a whole year, he divided his Army into twelve parts, assigning to each a moneth to lye in Leaguer, at which the besieged scoffed as utterly out of danger. But Cyrus taking notice how the River ran through the City, caused deep ditches to be made, which by dreining, rendered it fordable, and so taking advantage of a solemn Feast, en∣tred by night, and surprized them all in their cups. The King was slain by Gobryas and Gadatas, who both, being formerly injured by him, had revolted to Cyrus. The Inhabitants, commanded upon pain of death to deliver up their Arms, instantly obeyed. And thus the Babylonian Empire being quite overthrown, Cyrus assumed to himselfe Royall Majesty, setling his Court with great wisdom, wherein Xenophon, in his most exquisite History, maketh him to have excelled, in all things, to admiration.

* 1.16747.* 1.168 But Ctesias will have Astyages (whom he calleth Astyigas) nothing akin to Cyrus; tells us how he fled to Ecbatane, where he was hid by his Daughter Amytis, and her Husband Spitama: and how Cyrus coming upon them, put them both to the Rack, to make them confesse where he was, with their children Spitaces and Magabemes. Astyigas, rather than they should be tortured, discovered himself, and was first bound with fetters, but after∣wards honoured as a Father by Cyrus, who at length married Amytis, having killed Spitama, because he had denied he knew where he was. After the marriage, the Bactrians gave up themselves to Cyrus and Amytis, though formerly they made great and effectuall resistance. He relateth also how Cy∣rus made War upon the Sacae, whose King Amorges he took prisoner; but Sperethra the Queen gathered an Army of 300000 Men, and 200000 Wo∣men, and therewith overthrowing Cyrus, took him with other prisoners, and thereby redeemed her Husband. With the help then of Amorges he made War upon Croesus, and besieged Sardis, which City he took by a stratageme taught him by Oebares; making images of the Persians, and placing them up∣on the Walls, at which the defendants were affrighted. But, before this,* 1.169 Croesus deluded by a Spectrum, gave out his Son, an Hostage to Cyrus, and delaying to perform what he had promised, procured his death, which the Mother beholding from the wall, tumbled her self down headlong, and yet was not killed; but, the City being taken, fled to Apollo's Temple and died there.

48. Croesus being bound in the Temple, by an art he had of deceiving the sight, three times was loosed, though the place was secured, and committed to the care of Oebares; for which, they that were bound with him lost their heads, Then was he brought into the Palace and more strongly fetter'd, but was loosed again by Thunder and Lightning. Hereat Cyrus his anger abated, and giving him his liberty, he used him ever after with great respect, and be∣stowed on him a great City called Barene, near to Ecbatane. After this, Cyrus sent Petisacas his Eunuch to fetch Astyigas from the Barcanians, both he and his wife having a great desire to see him: But Petisacas through the instigation of Oebares left him in a desart place, where he was famished to death. The treachery was revealed by dreams, and Petisacas was given up in∣to the hands of Amytis, who plucked out his eyes, his skin over his eares,

and then crucified him: Oebares fearing the like punishment, though Cyrus promised him indemnity, killed himself. As for the body of Astyigas it was sumptuously buried, having been guarded by Lyons in the Wildernesse till Petisacas fetched it away. These improbable things are related by Ctesias.

* 1.17049. Berosus the Chaldaean left recorded that,* 1.171 in the 17^th year of Nabo∣nidus, Cyrus, having subdued all Asia, with a great Army, turned against Babylon. That Nabonidus meeting and ingaging with him in battell, was overthrown, and betook himself into a Town of the Borsippians. Cyrus be∣sieging Babylon, and considering it was not to be taken in haste,* 1.172 returned to Borsippus, where Nabonidus not expecting a storm, yielded himself; and Cyrus using him kindly sent him from Babylon into Caramania, where he allotted him an habitation. Abydenus(q) 1.173 further added, that Cyrus besto∣wed upon Nabonidus, now above 80 years old, the Government of Cara∣mania. This is the summe of what the most antient Historians delivered concerning Cyrus his attainment of the Empire of the East; which hapned about the year of the World 3465, the first of the 60^th Olympiad, 538 years before the Aera of Christ.

Notes

• * 1.1

  The begin∣ning of Nim∣rod's King∣dom.
• (a) 1.2

  Gen. 10.10.
• (b) 1.3

  Lib. 1. c. 185.
• (c) 1.4

  Lib. 6. c. 26.
• * 1.5

  The begin∣ning and du∣ration of the Assyrian Em∣pire.
• * 1.6

  Ad A. M. 1822. p. 45.
• * 1.7

  A. M. 759.
• * 1.8

  Lege Vossii Isag. Chron. Dissert. 5. c. 5, 6.
• * 1.9

  Porphyrius apud Simpli∣cium in Ari∣stot. de coelo. lib. 2.
• * 1.10

  Nimrod named Belus.
• * 1.11

  Semiramis eam co••diderat, vel, ut plerique credidere, Be∣lus, cujus regia ostenditur.

  Curtius lib. 5. cap. 1.

  Berosus apud Joseph. contra Aptonem lib. 1. Abydenus apud Euseb. praep. Evang. lib. 9. Dorotheus, Sido••is ••o••ta apud Julium Firmicum.
• * 1.12

  Whether he built Niniveh.
• * 1.13

  Mich. 5.6.
• * 1.14

  Made way to his Kingom by hunting.
• (d) 1.15

  Xeno∣phon. de vena∣tione & in Cy∣ropaedia.
• (e) 1.16

  Diodorus l. 2. p. 64. A.
• (f) 1.17

  Bochar∣tus l. 4. c. 12.
• * 1.18

  The true Bac∣chus.
• * 1.19

  Athenaeus.
• * 1.20

  Ninus.
• * 1.21

  His Con∣quests.
• (g) 1.22

  Biblioth. l. 2. p. 65. ex Ctesia Cnidio. Justin. lib. 1.
• * 1.23

  Ninive.
• (h) 1.24

  Lege Bo∣charti. Phaleg. l. 4. c. 20.
• (i) 1.25

  Orosius.
• (k) 1.26

  Dinon apud Aelian. var. Hist. l. 7. c. 1.
• (l) 1.27

  Diodorus ubi supra. p. 76. D. ex Athe∣naeo & aliis.
• * 1.28

  His death.
• * 1.29

  Semiramis his wife counter∣feiteth her son.
• * 1.30

  Justin. ex Tro∣go. lib. 1. Diodorus, ut prius.
• * 1.31

  Her acts.
• * 1.32

  Herodotus. lib. 1. cap. 184.
• * 1.33

  Ninias.
• * 1.34

  Diodorus. l. 2. p. 77. A.
• * 1.35

  Teutamus.
• * 1.36

  Sardanapa∣lus.
• * 1.37

  A. M. 3166.
• * 1.38

  Belesis & Ar∣baces conspire against him.
• (m) 1.39

  Justin.
• (n) 1.40

  Strabo.
• (o) 1.41

  Gatercu∣lus.
• * 1.42

  Diodorus.
• * 1.43

  He obtaineth three victories over them.
• * 1.44

  Is worsted twice.
• * 1.45

  The River swelling with rain breaks the wall.
• * 1.46

  Sardanapalus burneth him∣selfe in his Palace.
• (p) 1.47

  Athenaeus lib. 1.
• (q) 1.48

  Strabo l. 14. Edit.

  Causab. p. 672. A.

  Haec habeo quae edi, quaeque ex∣saturata libido Hausit, at illae jacent, multa & praeclara re∣licta. Epitaph. à Cicerone versum. Tusc. l. 5.

  Quid aliud, in∣quit Aristote∣les, in Bovis, non in Hominis sepulchro inci∣deres? Haec habere se dicit, quae ne••vivus quidem diutius babebat, quàm fruebatur.
• (r) 1.49

  Diodorus l. 2. p. 81. A.
• * 1.50

  Arbaces made King.
• * 1.51

  Granteth Ba∣bylon to Belesis.
• (s) 1.52

  L. 2. p. 816
• (t) 1.53

  L. 6. p. 737.
• (u) 1.54

  Jacob. Cappellus Hist. Sacr. & Exotica. p. 170. Simson in Chronico ad A. M. 3187.
• * 1.55

  What kind of Government was in Media.
• (x) 1.56

  Lib. 1. c. 95.
• (y) 1.57

  Vide Dro∣derum ut su∣pra. p. 84.
• * 1.58

  Kings of Me∣dia according to Ctesias.
• (z) 1.59

  Euseb. in Chronico.
• * 1.60

  According to Eusebius.
• (a) 1.61

  Lib. 1. c. 9, 7, 98, &c.
• * 1.62

  Deioces how he got the Kingdom.
• * 1.63

  Phraortes.
• * 1.64

  Cyaxares. Astyages.
• * 1.65

  Belesis his suc∣cessors.
• * 1.66

  Nabanasar.
• (b) 1.67

  Magn. Syntax. lib. 3. c. 8.
• * 1.68

  Ptolomie's Ca∣talogue of Kings.
• (c) 1.69

  Idem lib. 4. cap. 6, 7.
• (d) 1.70

  2 Kings. 20.12.
• (e) 1.71

  Usserius in Annal. Vet. Testament. ad A. M. 3323.
• * 1.72

  The arising anew of the Assyrian King∣dom. How, when, and by whom.
• (f) 1.73

  Jacobus Cappellus ad A. M. 3236.
• * 1.74

  Phul.
• (g) 1.75

  Usserius ad A. M. 3257. Hist. Anim. lib. 12. c. 21.
• (h) 1.76

  In Chron. ex Cestore Rhodio.
• * 1.77

  Tiglath-Pilesar.
• (i) 1.78

  2 Kings. 15.16.
• * 1.79

  Salmanasser.
• (k) 1.80

  17.
• * 1.81

  A. M. 3273.
• (l) 1.82

  Apud. Io∣sephum Antiq. lib. 9. cap. 14.
• * 1.83

  Senacherib. A. M. 3287.
• (m) 1.84

  Isa. 20.1. Berosus apud Iosephum Antiq. lib. 10. c. 1.
• (n) 1.85

  2 Kings 18.
• (o) 1.86

  Lib. 2. c. 141.
• * 1.87

  Esay 18.
• (p) 1.88

  2 Chron. 32.

  1 Kings 19. Esay 37.
• (q) 1.89

  Apud Jo∣seph. ut supra. cap. 2.
• * 1.90

  Esarchaddon the same with Assaradinus.
• (r) 1.91

  2 Kings 17.
• (s) 1.92

  2 Chron. 33.
• * 1.93

  Saosduchinus.
• (t) 1.94

  Pseudo-Metasthenes apud Annium vit. E••bensem. fol. 221. De cu∣jus fictis Au∣thoribus. vide Joh. Goro∣pium Biblioth. Hispan. Tom. 2. pag. 356. Gas∣par. Barterium. ibid. pag. 386. 407. 417. 431. Seth. Calvis. Isagog. Chronil. cap. 28.29. & Chron. p. 171. A. Non est germa∣num opus. Pam. in Tert. Apol. n. 287.
• * 1.95

  Chuniladanus.
• (u) 1.96

  Herodotus lib. 1.102. &c.
• * 1.97

  The Scythians obtain Asia 28 years.
• * 1.98

  Loose it.
• (x) 1.99

  Polyhi∣stor apud Ce∣drenum, vide Usserium in Annot. vet. Test. ad A. M. 3378.
• * 1.100

  Nabopolassar.
• (y) 1.101

  Magn. Syn∣tax. l. 5. c. 14.
• (z) 1.102

  2 Kings 23.

  2 Chron. 35.
• (a) 1.103

  Berosus apud Joseph. lib. 1. contra Apionem.
• (b) 1.104

  Alexand. Polyst. apud Euseb. praep. E∣vang. lib. 9.
• (c) 1.105

  Jerem. 46.
• (d) 1.106

  Berosus apud Joseph. ut pri••s▪ & Antiqu. lib. 10. cap. 11.

  A. M. 3410. Olymp. 46. an. 2.

  Romae 159.
• * 1.107

  Nebuchadne∣sar.
• * 1.108

  His great ex∣ploits and buildings.
• * 1.109

  Vide Diodor. lib. 2. p. 70. B.
• * 1.110

  Curtium lib. 5.
• * 1.111

  2 Kings 23. &c.
• * 1.112

  2 Chron. 36.
• * 1.113

  Jerem. 22.
• * 1.114

  His pride.
• * 1.115

  Daniel 3.
• * 1.116

  Punished.
• * 1.117

  What is found recorded of him by the Heathen.
• (e) 1.118

  Apud Euseb. praep. Evang. lib. 9.
• (f) 1.119

  Apud Jo∣s••phum, ubi pri••s.
• * 1.120

  Ezek. 29.
• * 1.121

  Evilmerodach.
• * 1.122

  A. M. 3440. Olymp. 53. an. 4. Romae. condit. 189.
• * 1.123

  Neriglissor.
• * 1.124

  Laborosardo∣chus.

  Nabonidus.
• (g) 1.125

  Apud Iose∣phum. lib. 1. contr. Api••em.
• * 1.126

  Whether the same with Bel∣shazar.
• * 1.127

  〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉.
• * 1.128

  〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉.
• (h) 1.129

  Cicero ad quintum Fra∣trem. Ep. 1.
• (i) 1.130

  As the Grand Cyrus of George de Scu∣dery Governor of Nostre Dame de la Garde, a Romance of 10. Volumes.
• * 1.131

  Cyrus.
• * 1.132

  The sum of what Herodo∣tus hath writ∣ten concer∣ning his Birth and Fortune.
• * 1.133

  Cyrus over∣throweth Astyages his Grand father.
• * 1.134

  A. M. 3446. Olymp. 55. an. 2. Urbis conditae. 195.
• * 1.135

  Provoked by Croesus King of Lydia.
• * 1.136

  Lydia whence so called.
• * 1.137

  Lege Bochar∣tum. Phaleg. lib. 2. cap. 12.
• (k) 1.138

  Herodotus lib. 1. c. 7. Strabo lib. 13. p. 586. c. Plin. l. 5. c. 29. Diodorus. Halicar. lib. 1. Diodorus l. 3. p. 165. B.
• (l) 1.139

  Tertull. de Spectac. lib. 5. Dionys. Halic. lib. 2.
• (m) 1.140

  Herodo∣tus l. 1. c. 95.
• (n) 1.141

  Asheu. l. 12. Plut. Sym. l. 4. Herodotus lib. 1. c. 49.
• (o) 1.142

  〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉.
• * 1.143

  Euseb. in Chron.
• * 1.144

  The Royall Families of Lydia.
• * 1.145

  Herodotus l. ••. c. 8, &c.
• * 1.146

  Vide suprà pa∣ragraph. 21.
• * 1.147

  Herod. ubi suprà. c. 26, &c.
• * 1.148

  Croesus Haly•• gressus, magnam pervertet opum vim.
• * 1.149

  Croesus inva∣deth Cappado∣cia.
• * 1.150

  Retreateth to Sardis.
• * 1.151

  Overthrown in battel.
• * 1.152

  And besieged.
• * 1.153

  Sardis taken.
• * 1.154

  Vide Herod. lib. 1. c. 85. Aul. Gellium. l. 5. c. 9. Val. Max. l. 5. c. 4. Ext. Exem. 6. Solinum. c. 7.
• * 1.155

  Croesus con∣demned.
• * 1.156

  His life spa∣red.
• * 1.157

  A. M. 3460. Olymp. 58. an. 4. Cyri 15.
• * 1.158

  Herodotus. lib. 1. c. 141. &c.
• * 1.159

  Pactyas revol∣teth.
• (o) 1.160

  〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 ventri indul∣gere 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 voluptati∣bus deditus.
• (p) 1.161

  〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 unguenta∣rius. Lege Athe∣naeum. lib. 15. c. 12.
• * 1.162

  Taken.
• * 1.163

  The Ionians subdued.
• * 1.164

  And the Assy∣rians or Baby∣lonians.
• * 1.165

  The sum of Xenophons Cy∣ropaedia.
• * 1.166

  Lege de insti∣tutione Persa∣rum, Xenoph. Cyropaed. l. 1. ad i••tium.
• * 1.167

  The sum of that wherein Ctesias dissen∣teth from o∣ther Histori∣ans, concer∣ning Cyrus.
• * 1.168

  Ex Photii Bib∣liotheca.
• * 1.169

  Vide Julium Frontinum Stratagem. lib. 3. cap. 8.
• * 1.170

  What Berosus and Abydenus wrote of him.
• * 1.171

  Apud Joseph. cont. Apion. l. 1.
• * 1.172

  A. M. Olymp. 6. an. 1. V.C. 214.
• (q) 1.173

  Apud Euseb. prapar. Evang. lib. 9.