Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the term "merchantman" refers to individuals engaged in trade and commerce, often traveling great distances to buy and sell goods. The role of the merchantman is highlighted in various passages throughout the Bible, illustrating both the economic and spiritual dimensions of their activities.Old Testament Context The Old Testament provides several references to merchantmen, emphasizing their importance in the ancient economy. In Genesis 37:28, Joseph is sold by his brothers to a caravan of Ishmaelite merchantmen traveling to Egypt: "So when the Midianite merchants came by, his brothers pulled Joseph out of the cistern and sold him for twenty shekels of silver to the Ishmaelites, who took him to Egypt." This passage underscores the role of merchantmen as conduits for trade and the movement of goods and people across regions. The book of Ezekiel also provides a vivid description of the bustling trade activities in the city of Tyre, a hub of commerce in the ancient world. Ezekiel 27:12-25 lists the various goods traded by Tyre's merchants, including silver, iron, tin, lead, and precious stones, highlighting the extensive network of trade that connected different cultures and regions. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the concept of the merchantman is used metaphorically to convey spiritual truths. One of the most notable references is found in the Parable of the Pearl of Great Price in Matthew 13:45-46: "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls. When he found one very precious pearl, he went away and sold all he had and bought it." Here, the merchantman represents a seeker of truth and spiritual wealth, willing to sacrifice all for the ultimate treasure—the kingdom of heaven. The book of Revelation also mentions merchants in the context of the fall of Babylon, symbolizing the end of earthly wealth and commerce. Revelation 18:11-15 describes the lament of the merchants over the destruction of Babylon, as they mourn the loss of their lucrative trade: "The merchants of the earth will weep and mourn over her, because no one buys their cargo anymore." Cultural and Economic Significance Merchantmen played a crucial role in the cultural and economic exchanges of the ancient world. They facilitated the spread of goods, ideas, and technologies across vast distances, contributing to the interconnectedness of different civilizations. The Bible's portrayal of merchantmen reflects both the material and spiritual dimensions of their work, acknowledging their impact on society while also using their activities as a metaphor for deeper spiritual truths. Moral and Ethical Considerations The Bible also addresses the moral and ethical dimensions of commerce, cautioning against dishonest practices and the pursuit of wealth at the expense of righteousness. Proverbs 11:1 states, "Dishonest scales are an abomination to the LORD, but an accurate weight is His delight." This highlights the importance of integrity and fairness in trade, principles that are as relevant today as they were in biblical times. In summary, the figure of the merchantman in the Bible serves as a multifaceted symbol, representing both the practical realities of trade and the deeper spiritual lessons that can be drawn from the pursuit of value and truth. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) A merchant.2. (n.) A trading vessel; a ship employed in the transportation of goods, as, distinguished from a man-of-war. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia MERCHANT; MERCHANTMANmur'-chant, mur'-chant-man. Strong's Hebrew 8447. tor -- a plait, turn... 2), standard (1), turn (2). chapman, sent to descry, be excellent, merchantman, search out, seek, espy out. Or tor {tore}; from tuwr ... /hebrew/8447.htm - 6k 5503. sachar -- to go around or about, travel about Library He is Our Peace. Treasure and Pearl Buying the Truth Buying the Truth The Pearl of Great Price. The First Disciples: ii. Simon Peter The Merchant. On the Words of the Gospel, John vi. 9, Where the Miracle of the ... Drawing Nearer to the Storm The Parable Interpreted is the Light of These views. Thesaurus Merchantman... man-of-war. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. MERCHANT; MERCHANTMAN. mur'-chant, mur'-chant-man. See COMMERCE; MERCHANDISE; TRADE. ... /m/merchantman.htm - 6k Merchant (15 Occurrences) Merchantmen (2 Occurrences) Resources Merchantman: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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