Jump to: Easton's • Webster's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Greek • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia A ferry, in biblical times, refers to a boat or raft used to transport people, animals, and goods across bodies of water such as rivers and lakes. Ferries were essential for trade, travel, and communication in ancient societies, including those mentioned in the Bible. The concept of a ferry is closely related to the broader theme of crossing water, which often carries symbolic significance in Scripture.Biblical References: 1. 2 Samuel 19:18 : "They crossed at the ford to bring the king’s household over and to do what was good in his sight. Shimei son of Gera crossed the Jordan, fell down before the king, and said to him." This passage describes a crossing of the Jordan River, which may have involved the use of a ferry or similar means to transport King David's household and others. The crossing of the Jordan is a recurring theme in the Bible, symbolizing transition and divine intervention. 2. Isaiah 18:2 : "which sends envoys by sea in papyrus boats over the water. Go, swift messengers, to a people tall and smooth-skinned, to a people feared far and wide, a nation powerful and oppressive, whose land the rivers divide." This verse mentions the use of boats made of papyrus, a common material for constructing small vessels in ancient Egypt and surrounding regions. Such boats would have been used for ferrying purposes, especially in areas with numerous waterways. 3. Acts 27:2 : "We boarded an Adramyttian ship about to sail for ports along the coast of Asia, and we put out to sea. Aristarchus, a Macedonian from Thessalonica, was with us." While this passage specifically refers to a sea voyage, it highlights the importance of maritime travel in the ancient world. Ferries would have been a crucial part of the infrastructure supporting such journeys, facilitating the movement of people and goods to larger ships. Cultural and Historical Context: In the ancient Near East, ferries were vital for crossing major rivers such as the Jordan, Euphrates, and Nile. These rivers often served as natural boundaries and were significant in trade routes. Ferries enabled the movement of armies, traders, and pilgrims, playing a crucial role in the economic and social life of the region. The construction of ferries varied depending on the materials available and the size of the water body to be crossed. Simple rafts made of wood or reeds were common for short distances, while larger boats might be used for more significant crossings. The technology and design of these vessels would have been influenced by the local environment and the level of craftsmanship available. Symbolic Significance: In the Bible, crossing water often symbolizes a transition or a new beginning. The Israelites' crossing of the Red Sea and the Jordan River are two of the most prominent examples, representing deliverance and entry into the Promised Land, respectively. Ferries, as instruments of crossing, can thus be seen as facilitators of God's plans and purposes. The act of crossing water also carries connotations of faith and trust in God's provision and protection. In many biblical narratives, water crossings are moments of testing and divine revelation, where God's power and faithfulness are demonstrated to His people. Conclusion: The concept of a ferry in biblical times is intertwined with themes of transition, divine intervention, and the facilitation of God's purposes. While the specific term "ferry" may not be frequently mentioned, the function and symbolism of water crossings are deeply embedded in the biblical narrative, reflecting both the practical and spiritual dimensions of these journeys. Easton's Bible Dictionary Ferry boat(2 Samuel 19:18), some kind of boat for crossing the river which the men of Judah placed at the service of the king. Floats or rafts for this purpose were in use from remote times (Isaiah 18:2). Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v. t.) To carry or transport over a river, strait, or other narrow water, in a boat.2. (v. i.) To pass over water in a boat or by a ferry. 3. (n.) A place where persons or things are carried across a river, arm of the sea, etc., in a ferryboat. 4. (n.) A vessel in which passengers and goods are conveyed over narrow waters; a ferryboat; a wherry. 5. (n.) A franchise or right to maintain a vessel for carrying passengers and freight across a river, bay, etc., charging tolls. Greek 962. Bethabara -- Bethabara. ... Bethabara. Of Hebrew origin (bayith and abarah); ferry-house; Bethabara (ie Bethabarah), a place on the Jordan -- Bethabara. see HEBREW bayith. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/962.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 5679. abarah -- ford... Word Origin from abar Definition ford NASB Word Usage ford (1), fords (1). ferry, plain. From abar; a crossing-place -- ferry, plain (from the margin). ... /hebrew/5679.htm - 6k Library Waiting for the Ferry Foreword Waiting for the Irish Boat Fearless of Rains and Dews At an Irish Funeral The Drunkard's Magnificat Sincere Seekers Assured Finders John's First Testimony to Jesus. A Prospect of Revival Prayer Takes in the Whole Man Thesaurus Ferry (1 Occurrence)... Easton's Bible Dictionary Ferry boat. (2 Samuel 19:18), some ... a boat. 2. (vi) To pass over water in a boat or by a ferry. 3. (n.) A ... /f/ferry.htm - 7k Ferry-boat (1 Occurrence) Ferryboat (1 Occurrence) Ford (3 Occurrences) Ziba (13 Occurrences) Gera (9 Occurrences) Fro (54 Occurrences) Ferrets (1 Occurrence) Prostrate (25 Occurrences) Resources Ferry: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Ferry (1 Occurrence)2 Samuel 19:18 Subtopics Related Terms |
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