Topical Encyclopedia Silver, a precious metal highly valued in ancient times, is frequently mentioned in the Bible as a symbol of wealth, commerce, and craftsmanship. One notable source of silver in the biblical narrative is Tarshish, a distant and prosperous region known for its trade and maritime activities.Biblical References The mention of silver from Tarshish is found in several passages, highlighting its significance in the ancient economy and trade networks. In Ezekiel 27:12, the prophet describes the wealth of Tyre, a prominent Phoenician city, stating, "Tarshish was your trading partner because of your abundant wealth of every kind; they exchanged silver, iron, tin, and lead for your merchandise" . This passage underscores the role of Tarshish as a key trading partner, supplying valuable metals, including silver, to the bustling markets of Tyre. In 1 Kings 10:22, the wealth of King Solomon is attributed in part to the resources obtained from Tarshish: "For the king had the ships of Tarshish at sea with the fleet of Hiram. Once every three years, the ships of Tarshish would arrive bearing gold, silver, ivory, apes, and peacocks" . This verse illustrates the extensive trade networks established during Solomon's reign, with Tarshish serving as a vital source of luxury goods and precious metals. Historical and Geographical Context The exact location of Tarshish has been a subject of debate among scholars, with various theories suggesting it could be in regions such as southern Spain, Sardinia, or even the British Isles. Regardless of its precise location, Tarshish is consistently portrayed in the Bible as a distant land rich in resources, particularly metals like silver. The trade routes connecting Tarshish to the Near East were crucial for the exchange of goods and cultural influences. The ships of Tarshish, mentioned in several biblical passages, symbolize the far-reaching maritime trade that brought wealth and exotic items to the ancient kingdoms of Israel and Judah. Symbolism and Significance In biblical literature, silver often symbolizes purity, value, and divine refinement. Psalm 12:6 states, "The words of the LORD are flawless, like silver refined in a furnace, like gold purified sevenfold" . This metaphor highlights the preciousness and purity associated with silver, drawing a parallel to the divine nature of God's words. The acquisition of silver from Tarshish also reflects the broader theme of God's provision and blessing. The wealth and prosperity brought by trade with distant lands like Tarshish are seen as manifestations of divine favor, enabling the flourishing of the Israelite kingdom under leaders like Solomon. Conclusion The biblical references to silver from Tarshish provide insight into the economic and cultural exchanges of the ancient world. Through trade with regions like Tarshish, the biblical narrative illustrates the interconnectedness of nations and the role of precious metals in shaping the history and prosperity of God's people. Nave's Topical Index Ezekiel 27:12Tarshish was your merchant by reason of the multitude of all kind of riches; with silver, iron, tin, and lead, they traded in your fairs. Nave's Topical Index Library Pride of Prosperity Israel in Canaan. A Song of Zion Redeemed Ezekiel's Discourse The Birth of England's Foreign Missions And Judas Iscariot Book 9 Footnotes The Condition of the World when Our Lord Returns Proves that his ... Hymn for those who Fast Assumptions Concerning the Book of Isaiah. Resources What kind of divination did Joseph do in Genesis 44:5, 15? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Achan in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Why did God judge the sin of Achan so severely? | GotQuestions.org Silver: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Silver for Ornamentation of, and in the Manufacture of, the Utensils for the Tabernacle Silver of Saints Purified by Affliction Silver of the Medo-Persian Kingdom Silver of the Tongue of the Just Silver of the Words of the Lord Silver used As Money from the Earliest Times Silver: (Dross of) of the Wicked Silver: (Labour of Seeking For) of Diligence Required For Silver: (Reprobate) the Wicked Silver: Baskets (Rv), or Filigree (Margin, RV) Silver: Generally Found in an Impure State Silver: Given by David and his Subjects for Making the Temple Silver: Given by the Israelite for Making the Tabernacle Silver: Made Into: Beds or Couches Silver: Made Into: Candlesticks Silver: Made Into: Ornaments and Hooks for the Pillars of the Tabernacle Silver: Made Into: Ornaments for the Person Silver: Made Into: Sockets for the Boards of the Tabernacle Silver: Made Into: Thin Plates Silver: Made Into: Wires (Alluded To) Silver: Often Given As Presents Silver: Purified, Called: Choice Silver Silver: Purified, Called: Refined Silver Silver: Taken in War often Consecrated to God Silver: Taken in War Purified by Fire Silver: Tarshish Carried on Extensive Commerce In Silver: The Patriarchs Rich In Silver: The Working In, a Trade Silver: Veins of, Found in the Earth Silver: Very Abundant in the Reign of Solomon Silver: Wisdom to be Esteemed More Than Related Terms |
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