ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED | DE MODE OF LITERATURE JUL-AUG 2023 GLOBAL(VOL VI. ISSUE XXXII)
Article Published on: 24TH AUG 2023 | www.demodemagazine.com
'ALEXANDER THE GREAT IN BIBLE PROPHECY' - BY AUTHOR LEONIDES V. LANDICHO
Was Alexander the Great a military genius? His conquest of the Achaemenid Persian Empire in just over a decade is impressive, but what were the chances of winning all the battles in this massive campaign? Alexander faced many challenges, such as crossing the Hellespont from Europe to Asia Minor, where he was vulnerable to attacks from the Persian navy. However, Darius III missed this opportunity to disrupt Alexander's passage. Darius III made some tactical mistakes in the Battles of Issus and Gaugamela and fled both times. Would history be different if he had fought to the end?
Military schools have analyzed Alexander's biography and military strategies, trying to decipher his "winning formula". Is there really a winning formula in war? Historians attribute Alexander’s successes to his boldness, adaptability, charisma, and strategic vision. Alexander was a skilled commander and a shrewd diplomat and administrator, who managed to integrate diverse cultures and religions into his empire. But Alexander suddenly died at the age of 32 causing his empire to be fragmented into four kingdoms (Daniel 8:22). AW Pink wrote, “To say that God is sovereign is to declare that He is “The Governor among nation's” (Psalm 22:28), setting up a kingdom, overthrowing empires, and determining the course of dynasties as pleaseth Him best.”
At the time of writing this book, the world is plagued by wars and rumours of wars, as Jesus warned in Matthew 24:6-8. As of this book’s release, there is a war between Russia and Ukraine, and the wind of war is looming in Southeast Asia and the Persian Gulf. Therefore, the study of ancient history, including the life and times of Alexander the Great, remains relevant and enlightening. This book aims to offer a biblical perspective on Alexander's story. From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible reveals God's sovereignty and grace and invites us to seek His kingdom and righteousness. As John Calvin wrote, “That He presides over all wars, and gives victory to whomsoever he pleases, that none may think that it happens by chance”. This book is about ancient history pre-written before the beginning of time.
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THE JOURNEY OF AUTHOR LEONIDES V. LANDICHO
Leo's writing journey commenced during his formative years in high school, where he honed his skills as a contributor to Aquarius School magazine. His creative path eventually led him to Canadian shores, where he contributed his talents to an American retail auction company and played a role within BC's electric company. Unfortunately, health challenges emerged, leading him to retire from his professional endeavors.
However, Leo's retirement marked a new chapter in his life, one characterized by profound intellectual exploration. Years of contemplation bore fruit in 2022 when he embarked on an ambitious undertaking: researching and crafting his book titled "Alexander the Great in Bible Prophecy." This meticulously woven work delves into the biblical vantage point of Alexander the Great's life and era. Leo's multidisciplinary background, encompassing political science, accounting, and theology, equips him with a distinct lens through which to examine this historically enigmatic figure.
Through "Alexander the Great in Bible Prophecy," Leo skillfully navigates the realms of history, spirituality, and scholarship, presenting readers with a fresh interpretation of a well-trodden narrative. His commitment to rigorously sourced research and thoughtful composition shines as a testament to his unwavering dedication.
In a world often inundated with information, "Alexander the Great in Bible Prophecy" stands as a beacon of thoughtful exploration, inviting readers to delve into a narrative that resonates across time and culture. Through his book, Leo invites us to reflect on the interplay between historical accounts and spiritual perspectives, fostering a rich tapestry of discourse that stimulates thought and curiosity. Ultimately, Leo's journey from high school contributor to retired professional to dedicated author illuminates the profound impact of life experiences on creative endeavours. His multidimensional approach, merging analytical acumen with a passion for storytelling, showcases the remarkable potential of a single individual to contribute meaningful insights to the tapestry of human understanding.
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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW OF AUTHOR LEONIDES V. LANDICHO WITH DE MODE
Q: Can you share with us what inspired you to delve into the biblical perspective on Alexander the Great's life and times?
A. I have always been interested in ancient history and noted that Alexander the Great is one of the captivating figures. I was inspired to delve into the biblical perspective on Alexander the Great’s life and times because of the prophecies in the Bible. I wanted to explore these prophecies in more detail and see how they relate to Alexander’s life and legacy.
Q: With a background in political science and accounting, how did you find the intersection between these fields and biblical studies, leading you to write this unique book?
A. My background in political science and accounting has given me a unique perspective on the intersection between these fields and biblical studies. I was able to apply my knowledge of political systems and economic structures to the historical context of Alexander the Great’s life and times. Accountants are detail-oriented and that also helped me to do detailed research on these prophecies.
Q: The concept of history repeating itself is intriguing. How do you draw parallels between Alexander the Great's era and contemporary times in your book?
A. Kingdoms rise and fall. In Daniel 8:1-27, the Prophet Daniel recorded the rise and fall of the Babylonian, Medo-Persian, and Greek Empires. Daniel 8:20-21, records, “As for the ram that you saw with the two horns, these are the kings of Media and Persia. And the goat is the king of Greece. And the great horn between his eyes is the first king.”
Q: As someone who has completed graduate-level courses at La Salle Business School and Asian Theological Seminary, how do you approach the research and analysis required to write a book that combines historical and theological elements?
A. I was inspired to write my book, “Alexander the Great in Bible Prophecy,” after reading the Old Testament of the Bible. As I read history and biographical books, the chapters of my book became more evident, and had to explore the biblical perspective on Alexander the Great in more detail and see how it relates to contemporary society. My approach, drawing on my knowledge of history, theology, and business, allowed me to analyze the events and ideas that shaped Alexander’s life and times from a unique perspective.
Q: You recently toured the Holy Land. How did this experience influence your understanding of biblical events and characters, particularly in relation to Alexander the Great?
A. Alexander the Great had to pass through the Holy Land after the Siege of Tyre and Gaza on the way to Egypt. Although he threatened the Jews because of their support to the Persian king, Alexander did not touch Jerusalem as prophesied by Zechariah 9:8. I completed my pilgrimage by visiting the Western Wall, which was still intact when Alexander the Great visited.
Q. "Alexander The Great in the Bible Prophecy" is described as a book about pre-written history. Could you elaborate on this concept and how it plays a role in your narrative?
A. God is omniscient. He is the Alpha and Omega (the beginning and the end). As A.W. Pink wrote in his book Sovereignty of God, “To say that God is sovereign is to declare that He is “The Governor among nations (Ps:22:28), setting up kingdoms, overthrowing empires, and determining the course of dynasties as pleaseth Him best.
Q. Throughout your writing process, were there any surprising discoveries or revelations about Alexander the Great that you'd like to share with your readers?
A. I came upon a poem by Charles Weede whom I tried to contact to obtain permission, but the publisher only allowed me to quote the first nine lines only:
Jesus and Alexander died at thirty-three.
One lived and died for self; one died for you and me;
The Greek died on a throne; the Jew died on a cross;
One’s life a triumph seemed; the other but a loss.
One led vast armies forth; the other walked alone.
One shed a whole world’s blood; the other gave His own.
One won the world in life and lost it all in death;
The other lost His life to win the whole world’s faith
Q. In what ways do you believe the lessons from Alexander the Great's life can be applied to contemporary challenges and circumstances?
A. Let me quote Matthew 16:26, “For what shall a man be profited if he shall gain the whole world, and forfeit his life? or what shall a man give in exchange for his life?”
Q. With three adult children and a busy life, how do you manage to find time for writing and research, especially considering the depth of knowledge required for this book?
A. I was working full-time with an electric company in BC, Canada. One day there was an awful pain in my stomach and had to rush to the emergency room. The blood test result was not good and had to file for retirement. That semi-retirement gave me time to finish the book. Was God telling me something? Yes, I believe he told in that small voice, finish it.
Q. As an author, what message do you hope readers will take away from "Alexander The Great in the Bible Prophecy"?
A. Chapter 12 of the book is entitled Sovereignty of God in History. That is the central theme of the book and of the world. God is Sovereign! Psalm 115:3 ESV, “Our God is in the heavens; He does all that he pleases.”
Q: How do you strike a balance between presenting historical facts and incorporating biblical perspectives in your writing?
A. The Bible is always the primary source as it is the Word of God. Historical and biographical books are secondary. An example is Alexander’s death, the Scripture was silent as to the cause of death. So, up to now, historians could not agree. Was Alexander poisoned? Did he die of malaria or internal disease? Nobody can be definite about the cause because the Scripture is silent.
Q: Can you tell us about your writing routine and how you stay motivated throughout the process of writing a book?
A. My readings motivated me in the writing process because the more I read, the more materials I could include in the process. At times the title of the chapter pops up. An example was when I was watching the movie Alexander by Oliver Stone. The title for Chapter 5 came up as it was taken from the movie script, The World is Yours! Take it.
Q. Given your academic and professional background, have you ever considered writing books on other historical or biblical figures or events in the future?
A. Yes, I thought about researching and writing about the Assyrian Empire. The Assyrians are prominent in the Old Testament and a scourge to the Israelites. Jonah was also instructed to preach in Nineveh. It would interesting what I would discover in the process of writing it when I have the opportunity.
Q: As an author, what message do you hope readers will take away?
A. Chapter 12 of the book is entitled Sovereignty of God in History. That is the central theme of the book and of the world. God is Sovereign! Psalm 115:3 ESV, “Our God is in the heavens; He does all that he pleases.”
Q: What advice would you give to readers who are interested in delving deeper into biblical history and its relevance to modern times?
A. I included a quote at the end of the Introduction of the book, “It is exciting to study ancient history and when tied up with Biblical prophecy becomes amazing and faith-building. It is the same with the study of astronomy, mathematics, physics, chemistry, law, and justice for all these lead to God.”
Q: What's next for you as an author? Are there any new projects or topics you're currently exploring for your future books?
A. A book about the Assyrian Empire from a Biblical perspective. Additionally, I have several book titles in mind. One is “Commentary on the Book of Daniel - Compiled and Easy to Read”. Another is “Jerusalem, O Jerusalem”. As of now, the focus is to market this book. If it is God’s will, the other books will follow.
AUTHOR LEONIDES V. LANDICHO BOOK 'ALEXANDER THE GREAT IN BIBLE PROPHECY' is listed in "Page-Turners Unleashed: 11 Engrossing Books You Can't Put Down IN 2023" in the AUG 2023 issue of DE MODE.
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