Topical Bible: Egypt: The Country of: Exports of

◄ Egypt: The Country of: Exports of ►

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Egypt, a significant nation in biblical history, is frequently mentioned in the Scriptures for its wealth, resources, and strategic importance. The land of Egypt, with its fertile Nile Delta, was renowned for its agricultural abundance and various exports that played a crucial role in the ancient economy and trade networks.

Grain and Agriculture
Egypt's most notable export in biblical times was grain. The fertile lands of the Nile Delta made Egypt a breadbasket for the surrounding regions. During times of famine, neighboring nations often turned to Egypt for sustenance. This is vividly illustrated in the account of Joseph, who, under Pharaoh's authority, stored surplus grain during seven years of plenty to prepare for the subsequent famine (Genesis 41:47-57). As a result, "all the world came to Egypt to buy grain from Joseph, because the famine was severe in every land" (Genesis 41:57).

Linen and Textiles
Egypt was also famous for its fine linen, a highly prized textile in the ancient world. The production of linen was a significant industry, and Egyptian linen was considered a luxury item. The Bible references the quality of Egyptian linen, as seen in the description of the virtuous woman in Proverbs 31:22, who "makes coverings for her bed; her clothing is fine linen and purple" . This suggests the high esteem in which Egyptian linen was held.

Papyrus and Writing Materials
The papyrus plant, native to the Nile region, was another significant export. Papyrus was used to produce writing materials, which were essential for record-keeping and communication in the ancient world. While the Bible does not explicitly mention papyrus as an export, its widespread use in the ancient Near East implies its importance in trade.

Horses and Chariots
Egypt was known for its horses and chariots, which were symbols of military might and prestige. The export of horses and chariots is mentioned in the context of Solomon's reign, where it is noted that "Solomon’s horses were imported from Egypt and from Kue; the royal merchants purchased them from Kue" (1 Kings 10:28). This trade contributed to the military strength and wealth of Israel during Solomon's time.

Gold and Precious Metals
While not as abundant as in other regions, Egypt did have access to gold and other precious metals, which were sometimes traded. The wealth of Egypt, including its gold, is alluded to in the biblical narrative of the Exodus, where the Israelites took articles of gold and silver from the Egyptians (Exodus 12:35-36).

Incense and Spices
Egypt also engaged in the trade of incense and spices, which were highly valued for religious and domestic purposes. The use of incense in worship is frequently mentioned in the Bible, and Egypt's role as a trade hub would have facilitated the distribution of these aromatic goods.

In summary, Egypt's exports in biblical times were diverse and influential, contributing to its status as a powerful and prosperous nation. The country's agricultural products, textiles, and other goods were integral to the economic and cultural exchanges of the ancient world, as reflected in the biblical narrative.

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Genesis 37:25,36
And they sat down to eat bread: and they lifted up their eyes and looked, and, behold, a company of Ishmeelites came from Gilead with their camels bearing spices and balm and myrrh, going to carry it down to Egypt.
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1 Kings 10:28,29
And Solomon had horses brought out of Egypt, and linen yarn: the king's merchants received the linen yarn at a price.
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Proverbs 7:16
I have decked my bed with coverings of tapestry, with carved works, with fine linen of Egypt.
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Ezekiel 27:7
Fine linen with broidered work from Egypt was that which you spread forth to be your sail; blue and purple from the isles of Elishah was that which covered you.
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Library

Commerce
... affected fashion or luxury in country districts specimens of ... vessels from Sidon,
baskets from Egypt, dresses from ... On the other hand, the exports from Palestine ...
/.../edersheim/sketches of jewish social life/chapter 12 commerce.htm

Defence against the Arians.
... However, he was not even in the country; and what the Prefect of Egypt did was not ...
had been the man to pretend that he could stop the exports of corn from ...
/.../select works and letters or athanasius/defence against the arians.htm

Index i. Of Subjects
... See Death. Egypt, Holy Family in, i.214, 215, 217. ... slaughter of some by Pilate,
ii.221. Galilee, country of, exports and character of, i.117, 223, 224; ...
/.../edersheim/the life and times of jesus the messiah/index i of subjects.htm

Travelling in Palestine --Roads, Inns, Hospitality, Custom-House ...
... the old highway along the sea-shore from Egypt up to ... he went, he encountered in city
or country the well ... was tax and duty on all imports and exports, levied on ...
/.../sketches of jewish social life/chapter 4 travelling in palestineroads.htm