Topical Bible: Canaan: Land of Exports of

◄ Canaan: Land of Exports of ►

Jump to: Nave's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

Canaan, a region of ancient significance, is frequently mentioned in the Bible as a land of abundance and prosperity. The land's geographical location, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the west and the Jordan River to the east, made it a hub for trade and commerce in the ancient Near East. The Bible provides insights into the various exports that Canaan was known for, highlighting its economic importance in biblical times.

Agricultural Products

Canaan was renowned for its fertile land, which produced a variety of agricultural products. The Bible often refers to the land as "a land flowing with milk and honey" (Exodus 3:8), indicating its rich agricultural output. The region was particularly noted for its grain, wine, and oil. Deuteronomy 8:8 describes Canaan as "a land of wheat and barley, of vines and fig trees and pomegranates, a land of olive oil and honey." These products were not only staples for the local population but also valuable exports that contributed to the region's wealth.

Timber and Building Materials

The forests of Lebanon, part of the greater Canaanite region, were famous for their cedar trees. This timber was highly prized for construction and shipbuilding. The Bible records that King Solomon imported cedar wood from Hiram, king of Tyre, for the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem (1 Kings 5:6). The quality and durability of Canaanite timber made it a sought-after export throughout the ancient world.

Metals and Minerals

Canaan was also known for its mineral resources. Ezekiel 27:12-13 mentions the trade of silver, iron, tin, and lead, indicating that these metals were part of the region's export economy. The presence of these resources contributed to the development of metallurgy and craftsmanship in Canaan, further enhancing its trade relations with neighboring regions.

Textiles and Dyes

The production of textiles and dyes was another significant aspect of Canaan's export economy. The city of Tyre, located in the region, was famous for its purple dye, derived from the murex shellfish. This dye was highly valued in the ancient world and was often associated with royalty and luxury. Ezekiel 27:16 mentions the trade of "purple cloth" as part of Tyre's extensive commercial network.

Trade Networks

Canaan's strategic location facilitated extensive trade networks with surrounding regions, including Egypt, Mesopotamia, and the Mediterranean islands. The Bible provides glimpses of these interactions, as seen in the accounts of caravans and merchant ships. The prosperity of Canaanite cities like Tyre and Sidon was largely due to their active participation in international trade, exporting goods that were in high demand across the ancient world.

In summary, Canaan's exports played a crucial role in its economic prosperity and its interactions with neighboring cultures. The region's agricultural abundance, valuable timber, rich mineral resources, and luxury textiles made it a key player in the trade networks of the ancient Near East, as reflected in the biblical narrative.

Nave's Topical Index

Ezekiel 27:17
Judah, and the land of Israel, they were your merchants: they traded in your market wheat of Minnith, and Pannag, and honey, and oil, and balm.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The Historical Situation
... consisted of various duties assessed on exports, and they ... The Samaritans lived in
the land, a people despising ... them their lot in a veritable Canaan situated in ...
/.../rhees/the life of jesus of nazareth/i the historical situation.htm