Topical Encyclopedia The term "ship built of bulrushes" refers to the small ark or basket made by Jochebed, the mother of Moses, to save her infant son from Pharaoh's decree to drown all Hebrew male infants in the Nile River. This account is found in the Book of Exodus, specifically in Exodus 2:3. The Berean Standard Bible describes this event as follows: "But when she could hide him no longer, she got a papyrus basket for him and coated it with tar and pitch. Then she placed the child in it and set it among the reeds along the bank of the Nile."Materials and Construction The "bulrushes" mentioned in the text are often understood to be papyrus reeds, which were abundant along the Nile River. Papyrus was a versatile material in ancient Egypt, used for making paper, boats, and various other items. The construction of the basket involved weaving these reeds together to form a watertight vessel. The use of tar and pitch to coat the basket further ensured its buoyancy and waterproofing, protecting the infant Moses from the waters of the Nile. Symbolism and Significance The ark of bulrushes is rich in symbolism and theological significance. It represents God's providence and protection over Moses, who would later become the deliverer of the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. The act of placing Moses in the Nile, a place of danger, yet ensuring his safety through the ark, prefigures the deliverance and salvation themes that run throughout the Bible. The use of an ark, a term also used for Noah's Ark, draws a parallel between the two accounts. Both arks serve as vessels of salvation, preserving life amidst perilous waters. This typology underscores the continuity of God's redemptive plan throughout biblical history. Cultural and Historical Context In the cultural and historical context of ancient Egypt, the Nile River was both a source of life and a potential threat. It was central to Egyptian civilization, providing water, transportation, and fertile soil. However, it also held dangers, such as flooding and the presence of crocodiles. The decision to place Moses in the Nile, therefore, was an act of faith and desperation by Jochebed, trusting in God's protection over her son. The account also highlights the role of women in God's plan, as Jochebed's faith and ingenuity, along with the compassion of Pharaoh's daughter, were instrumental in preserving Moses' life. This narrative demonstrates how God can use unexpected means and people to fulfill His purposes. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the account of the ship built of bulrushes emphasizes themes of faith, divine intervention, and the preservation of God's chosen leaders. It illustrates how God works through ordinary means and individuals to accomplish His extraordinary plans. The preservation of Moses in the ark of bulrushes set the stage for the eventual liberation of the Israelites, showcasing God's sovereignty and faithfulness to His covenant promises. In summary, the ship built of bulrushes is a testament to God's providential care and the unfolding of His redemptive history, as seen through the life of Moses and the deliverance of His people. Nave's Topical Index Isaiah 18:2That sends ambassadors by the sea, even in vessels of bulrushes on the waters, saying, Go, you swift messengers, to a nation scattered and peeled, to a people terrible from their beginning till now; a nation meted out and trodden down, whose land the rivers have spoiled! Nave's Topical Index Library Moses Chapter vi Babylonia and Assyria Resources What are the Christian themes in The Voyage of the Dawn Treader? | GotQuestions.orgWhat happened between Paul's third and fourth missionary journeys? | GotQuestions.org Why is wisdom referred to as a she in Proverbs? | GotQuestions.org Ship: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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