Topical Encyclopedia The term "coastal" refers to regions or areas that are adjacent to or near a sea or ocean. In the context of the Bible, coastal areas often hold significant historical, geographical, and theological importance. The coastal regions of the ancient Near East, particularly those along the Mediterranean Sea, played a crucial role in the narrative of the Scriptures.Geographical Significance The coastal areas of the ancient Near East include the regions of Phoenicia, Philistia, and parts of Israel, such as the territories of Asher and Dan. These areas were known for their strategic importance due to their access to maritime trade routes. The city of Tyre, for example, was a prominent Phoenician city known for its wealth and influence, largely due to its coastal location. In Ezekiel 27:3, Tyre is described as "situated at the entrance of the sea, merchant of the peoples to many coastlands." Biblical References The Bible frequently mentions coastal regions and their inhabitants. In the Old Testament, the Philistines, who occupied the coastal plain of Canaan, were often in conflict with the Israelites. Judges 3:3 refers to "the five rulers of the Philistines, all the Canaanites, the Sidonians, and the Hivites living in the mountains of Lebanon from Mount Baal-hermon to Lebo-hamath." The New Testament also highlights the significance of coastal areas. Jesus' ministry included visits to coastal regions, such as Tyre and Sidon. In Matthew 15:21, it is recorded, "Leaving that place, Jesus withdrew to the district of Tyre and Sidon." These areas were not only significant for their geographical location but also for their diverse populations, which included Gentiles, thus foreshadowing the spread of the Gospel beyond Jewish communities. Theological Implications Coastal regions in the Bible often symbolize both opportunity and challenge. They were gateways for trade and cultural exchange, but also for idolatry and foreign influence. The prophets frequently spoke against the pride and idolatry of coastal cities like Tyre and Sidon. Isaiah 23:1 proclaims, "An oracle concerning Tyre: Wail, O ships of Tarshish, for Tyre is destroyed, without house or harbor." The coastal regions also serve as a backdrop for the fulfillment of God's promises. The inclusion of Gentile regions like Tyre and Sidon in Jesus' ministry underscores the universal scope of the Gospel. In Acts 21:3, Paul’s journey to spread the Gospel includes a stop at Tyre, indicating the continued importance of coastal cities in the early Christian mission: "After sighting Cyprus and passing to the south of it, we sailed on to Syria. We landed at Tyre, where our ship was to unload its cargo." Cultural and Economic Aspects Coastal areas were centers of commerce and cultural exchange. The Phoenicians, renowned for their seafaring skills, established trade networks that extended across the Mediterranean. This economic activity is reflected in biblical texts that describe the wealth and influence of coastal cities. Ezekiel 27:9 mentions the "elders of Gebal and their wise men" who were involved in shipbuilding, highlighting the economic prowess of these regions. In summary, coastal regions in the Bible are depicted as places of both significant opportunity and spiritual challenge. They are integral to the narrative of God's interaction with His people and the unfolding of His redemptive plan. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (a.) of or pertaining to a coast.Greek 3882. paralios -- by the sea, the sea coast ... Word Origin from para and the same as halieus Definition by the sea, the sea coast NASB Word Usage coastal region (1). sea coast. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3882.htm - 6k Library Was the New Testament Created Consciously? and How did the ... Introduction Thesaurus Coastal (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (a.) of or pertaining to a coast. Multi-Version Concordance Coastal (1 Occurrence). Luke 6:17 He came down ... /c/coastal.htm - 6k Irrigation Coasting (1 Occurrence) Agriculture Coast (70 Occurrences) Resources What were the different missionary journeys of Paul? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did Jesus say that He was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel (Matthew 15:24)? | GotQuestions.org What is the Rose of Sharon? | GotQuestions.org Coastal: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Coastal (1 Occurrence)Luke 6:17 Subtopics Related Terms |