Topical Encyclopedia A mariner, in biblical terms, refers to a sailor or seafarer, an individual who navigates and works on the sea. Mariners are mentioned in various contexts throughout the Bible, often symbolizing human endeavors, the challenges of life, and the power of God over creation.Biblical References: 1. Jonah and the Mariners: One of the most notable references to mariners is found in the Book of Jonah. When Jonah attempts to flee from God's command to go to Nineveh, he boards a ship bound for Tarshish. A great storm arises, threatening the vessel and its crew. The mariners, described as experienced sailors, are terrified and each cries out to his own god. They cast lots to determine the cause of the storm, and the lot falls on Jonah. Jonah 1:5-6 states, "The sailors were afraid, and each cried out to his own god. And they threw the ship’s cargo into the sea to lighten the load. But Jonah had gone down to the lowest part of the vessel, where he lay down and fell into a deep sleep." The mariners' actions reflect the human response to divine intervention and the recognition of God's sovereignty. After Jonah reveals his identity and the reason for the storm, the mariners reluctantly throw him overboard, and the sea calms. This leads them to fear the LORD greatly, offering sacrifices and making vows (Jonah 1:15-16). 2. Ezekiel's Lamentation over Tyre: In Ezekiel 27, the prophet delivers a lamentation over the city of Tyre, a major maritime power known for its skilled mariners. The chapter poetically describes Tyre as a ship, with its mariners and seamen playing crucial roles in its operations. Ezekiel 27:27-29 says, "Your wealth, merchandise, and goods, your sailors and captains, your shipwrights and merchants, all your warriors within you, and all the other people on board will sink into the heart of the sea on the day of your downfall. The countryside will shake at the sound of your sailors’ cries." This passage highlights the reliance of ancient economies on maritime trade and the expertise of mariners. It also serves as a metaphor for the fall of a proud and prosperous city, emphasizing the transient nature of human achievements in contrast to God's eternal power. 3. Psalm 107: Psalm 107 offers a broader reflection on the experiences of mariners, illustrating the perils of the sea and God's deliverance. Verses 23-30 describe those who "go down to the sea in ships, who do business on the mighty waters." The psalm recounts how they witness God's works and wonders in the deep, face storms that lift the waves, and cry out to the LORD in their distress. God calms the storm, guiding them to their desired haven, prompting them to give thanks for His unfailing love and wondrous deeds. Symbolism and Themes: Mariners in the Bible often symbolize human vulnerability and dependence on God. The sea, with its unpredictable and often dangerous nature, represents the challenges and uncertainties of life. Mariners, despite their skills and experience, are depicted as ultimately reliant on God's mercy and intervention. The accounts involving mariners underscore themes of divine sovereignty, human repentance, and the power of prayer. They remind believers of God's control over creation and His willingness to save those who call upon Him in faith. Mariners' experiences serve as a metaphor for the spiritual journey, navigating the tumultuous waters of life with trust in God's providence. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) One whose occupation is to assist in navigating ships; a seaman or sailor.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia MARINERmar'-i-ner. Strong's Hebrew 4419. mallach -- a mariner... 4418, 4419. mallach. 4420 . a mariner. Transliteration: mallach Phonetic Spelling: (mal-lawkh') Short Definition: sailors. ... mariner. From malach in its second ... /hebrew/4419.htm - 6k 7751. shuwt -- to go or rove about Library The Mariner's Hymn. Psalm 107:5. Fourth Part. CM The Mariner's Psalm. Psalm 107 Part 4 the Mariner's Psalm. PM Mrs. Southey. The Mariner's Hymn. Prayer and Science Introduction Going Home --A Christmas Sermon Holy violence An Instructive Truth Assurance Thesaurus Mariner... navigating ships; a seaman or sailor. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. MARINER. mar'-i-ner. See SHIPS AND BOATS, II, 2, (3); III, 2. ... /m/mariner.htm - 6k Mariners (7 Occurrences) Rose (279 Occurrences) Marimoth Minor (2 Occurrences) Sailor (1 Occurrence) Seafaring (2 Occurrences) Asia (22 Occurrences) Resources What is Romanticism? How has Romanticism affected Christianity? | GotQuestions.orgMariner: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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