In the biblical context, "coastlands" and "islands" often refer to distant lands and territories that are reached by sea. These terms are used throughout the Scriptures to denote regions that are geographically separated from the mainlands of the ancient Near East, often symbolizing the far reaches of the known world.

Hebrew and Greek Terms

The Hebrew word often translated as "coastlands" is "אִי" (i), which can mean "island" or "coastland." In the Greek Septuagint, the term "νήσος" (nēsos) is used, which also means "island." These terms are sometimes used interchangeably, depending on the context, to describe areas that are accessible by sea.

Biblical References

1. Isaiah's Prophecies: The prophet Isaiah frequently mentions coastlands and islands, often in the context of God's sovereignty and the spread of His glory. Isaiah 42:10 states, "Sing to the LORD a new song, His praise from the ends of the earth, you who go down to the sea, and all that is in it, you islands, and all who dwell in them." Here, the coastlands and islands are called to join in the worship of Yahweh, indicating their inclusion in God's redemptive plan.

2. Judgment and Salvation: In Isaiah 41:1 , the coastlands are summoned to listen to God's judgment: "Be silent before Me, O coastlands, and let the peoples renew their strength. Let them come forward and testify; let us come together for judgment." This passage highlights the coastlands as witnesses to God's justice and power.

3. The Spread of the Gospel: The New Testament also reflects the significance of islands in the spread of the Gospel. Acts 13:6 mentions the island of Cyprus, where Paul and Barnabas preached the word of God. The islands serve as strategic locations for the dissemination of the Christian message.

4. Eschatological Vision: In the eschatological visions of Revelation, islands are mentioned in the context of God's final judgment. Revelation 6:14 describes a cosmic upheaval: "The sky receded like a scroll being rolled up, and every mountain and island was moved from its place." This imagery underscores the totality of God's transformative power over creation.

Symbolic Meaning

In biblical literature, coastlands and islands often symbolize the remotest parts of the earth, representing the universality of God's dominion and the reach of His salvation. They are depicted as places that will ultimately acknowledge God's authority and participate in His worship. The inclusion of these distant lands in prophetic visions underscores the comprehensive scope of God's plan for humanity.

Historical and Geographical Context

Historically, the coastlands and islands mentioned in the Bible could refer to regions in the Mediterranean Sea, such as Cyprus, Crete, and the Aegean Islands. These areas were known to ancient Israelites through trade and exploration. The mention of these regions in biblical texts reflects the broader cultural and geographical awareness of the biblical authors.

Theological Implications

The frequent mention of coastlands and islands in Scripture serves as a reminder of God's omnipresence and the global nature of His covenant. It emphasizes that no part of creation is beyond His reach or concern. The prophetic calls for the coastlands to witness God's acts and join in His praise highlight the inclusivity of God's salvific work, extending beyond Israel to encompass all nations and peoples.