Chittim, often identified with the island of Cyprus and its surrounding regions, holds a significant place in biblical prophecy and history. The descendants of Javan, one of the sons of Japheth, are traditionally associated with Chittim (Genesis 10:4). Throughout the Scriptures, Chittim is mentioned in various contexts, often symbolizing distant lands or maritime powers.

Prophetic References:

1. Numbers 24:24: In the prophecy of Balaam, Chittim is mentioned as a powerful maritime nation. Balaam foretells, "Ships will come from the coast of Kittim; they will afflict Asshur and Eber, but they too will be destroyed." This prophecy suggests that Chittim would play a role in the geopolitical upheavals of the ancient Near East, impacting significant powers like Assyria and the descendants of Eber.

2. Isaiah 23:1, 12: The prophet Isaiah speaks of Chittim in the context of the oracle against Tyre. "Wail, O ships of Tarshish, for Tyre is destroyed, without house or harbor. From the land of Cyprus word has come to them." Here, Chittim (Cyprus) is a point of reference for the news of Tyre's downfall, indicating its role as a hub of maritime communication and trade.

3. Jeremiah 2:10: The prophet Jeremiah uses Chittim as a benchmark for comparison, urging the Israelites to consider the faithfulness of other nations. "Cross over to the coasts of Kittim and see, send to Kedar and observe closely; see if there has ever been anything like this." This rhetorical device underscores the spiritual infidelity of Israel compared to the steadfastness of other nations.

4. Ezekiel 27:6: In Ezekiel's lamentation over Tyre, Chittim is noted for its contribution to the construction of Tyre's ships. "Of oaks from Bashan they made your oars; of cypress wood from the coasts of Kittim they made your deck, inlaid with ivory." This highlights Chittim's involvement in the economic and commercial activities of the ancient world.

5. Daniel 11:30: In the apocalyptic visions of Daniel, Chittim is mentioned in the context of a conflict involving the king of the North. "Ships of Kittim will come against him, and he will lose heart. Then he will turn back and vent his rage against the holy covenant." This passage is often interpreted as a reference to the Roman intervention in the affairs of the Hellenistic kingdoms, illustrating Chittim's role in the unfolding of divine plans.

Historical and Theological Significance:

Chittim's mention in these prophetic contexts underscores its importance as a symbol of foreign intervention and influence. The references to Chittim often highlight the broader theme of God's sovereignty over nations and His ability to use distant powers to accomplish His purposes. The prophecies concerning Chittim serve as reminders of the transient nature of earthly powers and the ultimate fulfillment of God's divine will in history.Numbers 24:24
And ships shall come from the coast of Chittim, and shall afflict Asshur, and shall afflict Eber, and he also shall perish for ever.
Nave's Topical Index

Daniel 11:30
For the ships of Chittim shall come against him: therefore he shall be grieved, and return, and have indignation against the holy covenant: so shall he do; he shall even return, and have intelligence with them that forsake the holy covenant.
Nave's Topical Index

Balaam
... in him, and thereby utters deep and wonderful prophecies; and yet ... Those ships of
Chittim, too, have a great and ... But what does this story teach us concerning God ...
/.../kingsley/the gospel of the pentateuch/sermon xiv balaam.htm

The Blessings of Noah Upon Shem and Japheth. (Gen. Ix. 18-27. )
... individual wishes, but, at the same time, prophecies,"sees such ... of Shem, this is
a prophecy concerning us, who ... shall come from the coast of Chittim and shall ...
/.../hengstenberg/christology of the old testament/the blessings of noah upon.htm

Questions.
... 9. But what had been foretold concerning Cyrus?"Is. xlv. I, 2, 3. 10. ... 16. What
prophecies were' there of her desolation?"Ps. lxxx. ... 11. What was Chittim? ...
//christianbookshelf.org/yonge/the chosen people/questions.htm

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