Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, ships were an essential means of transportation and trade, especially in the Mediterranean region. Oars were a crucial component of these vessels, providing the necessary propulsion when the wind was insufficient or when precise maneuvering was required. The use of oars in ships is mentioned in several passages throughout the Bible, highlighting their importance in ancient maritime activities.Biblical References: 1. Ezekiel 27:6 · In this passage, the prophet Ezekiel describes the grandeur of Tyre, a prominent Phoenician city known for its maritime prowess. The verse states, "Of oaks from Bashan they made your oars; of cypress wood from the coasts of Cyprus they made your deck, inlaid with ivory." This description emphasizes the craftsmanship and the choice of materials used in constructing oars, indicating their significance in the shipbuilding industry of the time. 2. Jonah 1:13 · The account of Jonah provides insight into the use of oars during a storm at sea. The verse recounts, "Nevertheless, the men rowed hard to get back to dry land, but they could not, for the sea was raging against them more and more." Here, the sailors' reliance on oars in an attempt to navigate through a tempest underscores their role in emergency situations when sails were ineffective. 3. Acts 27:17 · The Apostle Paul's journey to Rome includes a perilous sea voyage, during which the crew takes measures to secure the ship. The verse notes, "After hoisting it up, they used ropes to undergird the ship. And fearing that they would run aground on the sandbars of Syrtis, they lowered the sea anchor and let the ship be driven along." While oars are not explicitly mentioned, the context implies their potential use in steering and stabilizing the vessel amidst the storm. Cultural and Historical Context: In the ancient world, ships were often equipped with both sails and oars, allowing them to navigate various maritime conditions. Oars were typically manned by rowers, who could be free men or slaves, depending on the ship's purpose and the society it belonged to. The construction of oars from durable woods like oak and cypress, as mentioned in Ezekiel, reflects the importance of quality materials in ensuring the effectiveness and longevity of these tools. The use of oars was not limited to large trading vessels; smaller boats, such as fishing boats on the Sea of Galilee, also relied on oars for movement. This is evident in the Gospels, where Jesus and His disciples frequently traveled by boat, navigating the waters with the aid of oars. Symbolic Significance: In a broader spiritual sense, oars can symbolize human effort and cooperation in navigating the challenges of life. Just as sailors worked together to row their ships, believers are called to work in unity and perseverance in their spiritual journey. The imagery of oars in the Bible serves as a reminder of the diligence and teamwork required to overcome obstacles and reach one's destination. Overall, the presence of oars in biblical narratives highlights their practical and symbolic roles in the ancient world, reflecting the ingenuity and resilience of those who traversed the seas. Nave's Topical Index Jonah 1:13Nevertheless the men rowed hard to bring it to the land; but they could not: for the sea worked, and was tempestuous against them. Nave's Topical Index Mark 6:48 Library The Rivers of God The Fact of the Redeemer's Return is Illustrated in the Gospel ... Stilling the Storms. The King's Highway In Galilee. The Fifth Miracle in John's Gospel The Five Thousand Fed. The Advance of Xerxes into Greece. Peter on the Waves The Mission of the Son of Man Resources Is there such a thing as a necessary evil? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Jonah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is the meaning of “Cast your bread upon the waters” in Ecclesiastes 11:1? | GotQuestions.org Ship: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |