An oasis in the Syrian desert on the road from the Mediterranean to the Euphrates; a famous caravan city in classical times, it was called Palmyra. According to a biblical tradition it was founded by Solomon (I Kgs 9:18; II Chr 8:4). The actual text in Kings reads "Tamar" and many scholars feel that this reading should be retained, the reference being to Tamar (q.v.) in southern Palestine; they would then emend "Tadmar" in Chronicles to "Tamar". Others accept the traditional readings in Kings as "Tadmor" (followed by the AV), which is confirmed by Chronicles. These scholars feel that, despite the distance involved, it was quite plausible for Solomon to have constructed a fortress at Tadmor, possibly as a replacement after his loss of Damascus. Extensive excavations have uncovered a large quantity of inscribed material, with about 1,000 inscriptions in Palmyrene (some with a Greek translation) which have thrown much light on the social, civil and political life of the town and its trade and religion. Many buildings were found in an excellent state of preservation.
Concordance
I Kgs 9:18. II Chr 8:4
