Topical Bible: Cedar used for Masts of Ships

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Cedar, a highly valued and durable wood, is frequently mentioned in the Bible for its various uses, including its application in shipbuilding. The cedar tree, known for its strength, resistance to decay, and aromatic qualities, was a prized material in the ancient Near East. Its use in constructing masts for ships is specifically noted in the Scriptures, highlighting its importance in maritime activities.

Biblical Reference:

The primary biblical reference to cedar being used for masts is found in the book of Ezekiel. In Ezekiel 27:5, the prophet describes the grandeur of Tyre, a prominent Phoenician city known for its seafaring prowess: "They constructed all your planking with cypress from Senir. They took a cedar from Lebanon to make a mast for you." . This passage illustrates the use of cedar from Lebanon, renowned for its superior quality, in the construction of ships, particularly for the masts, which were crucial for the stability and navigation of the vessels.

Historical and Cultural Context:

The Phoenicians, inhabitants of the region where Tyre was located, were renowned for their skills in shipbuilding and navigation. Their ships were essential for trade and exploration across the Mediterranean Sea. The choice of cedar for masts underscores the need for materials that could withstand the harsh conditions of the sea while providing the necessary support for sails.

Lebanon's cedar forests were famous in antiquity, and the wood was exported to various regions, including Egypt and Israel. The cedars of Lebanon are frequently mentioned in the Bible, symbolizing strength and majesty. The procurement of cedar wood for significant projects, such as the construction of Solomon's Temple (1 Kings 5:6), further emphasizes its value and desirability.

Symbolism and Theological Significance:

In biblical literature, cedar often symbolizes strength, durability, and beauty. Its use in sacred and royal constructions, as well as in shipbuilding, reflects its esteemed status. Theologically, the cedar's enduring nature can be seen as a metaphor for the steadfastness and reliability of God's promises and the strength of His people when rooted in faith.

The use of cedar for masts in Ezekiel's lament over Tyre serves as a reminder of the city's former glory and the subsequent judgment it faced. The imagery of the cedar mast, once a symbol of Tyre's maritime dominance, becomes a poignant element in the narrative of its downfall, illustrating the transient nature of human achievements compared to the eternal sovereignty of God.

Nave's Topical Index

Ezekiel 27:5
They have made all your ship boards of fir trees of Senir: they have taken cedars from Lebanon to make masts for you.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The Memphite Empire
... manganese which they met with here and elsewhere in moderate quantities, were used
in the ... The mummy-case of cedar-wood had a man's head, and was shaped to the ...
/.../chapter iithe memphite empire.htm

Sennacherib (705-681 BC )
... with those which the Mediterranean natives used for their ... They had no masts, but
propelling power was ... Syrian style, with woodwork of fragrant cedar and cypress ...
/.../chapter isennacherib 705-681 b c.htm

The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty --(Continued)
... purposes, such as beams and planks, masts and yards ... or for ornamental work"pine,cypress,
yew, cedar, and oak ... eg the quiver, the sword and javelins used by the ...
/.../chapter ithe eighteenth theban dynastycontinued.htm

Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... replied in a parable, "The thistle that was in Lebanon sent to the cedar that was ...
trust to the best uses; in times of extreme distress the king used to borrow ...
/.../chapter iitiglath-pileser iii and the.htm