Topical Encyclopedia Tarshish is a name that appears in various contexts within the Bible, and one of its notable mentions is as a Persian prince. The name Tarshish is often associated with wealth, maritime trade, and distant lands, but its reference as a Persian prince is found in the genealogical and historical records of the Old Testament.Genealogical Context In the genealogical listings of the descendants of Noah, Tarshish is mentioned as a descendant of Japheth, one of Noah's sons. Genesis 10:4 states, "The sons of Javan: Elishah, Tarshish, Kittim, and Dodanim." This places Tarshish within the broader context of the nations that emerged after the flood, often associated with maritime peoples and regions. Historical and Prophetic Context The name Tarshish is also found in the prophetic literature of the Old Testament, where it is often linked to wealth and trade. In Ezekiel 27:12 , the prophet describes the trading partners of Tyre: "Tarshish was your merchant because of your great wealth of goods; they exchanged silver, iron, tin, and lead for your merchandise." This association with trade and wealth has led some scholars to suggest that Tarshish could represent a region known for its resources and commerce. Persian Connection The connection of Tarshish to Persia is more indirect but can be inferred from the broader historical and geopolitical context of the ancient Near East. During the time of the Persian Empire, which spanned from the 6th to the 4th century BC, the influence of Persia extended over a vast territory, including regions that were historically linked to the descendants of Japheth. The Persian Empire was known for its administrative organization and incorporation of various peoples and cultures, which could include those associated with the name Tarshish. Symbolic and Theological Implications In a symbolic sense, the mention of Tarshish as a Persian prince can be seen as a representation of the far-reaching influence and interconnectedness of the ancient world. The biblical narrative often uses names and genealogies to convey theological truths about God's sovereignty over nations and history. The inclusion of Tarshish in these records underscores the theme of divine providence and the fulfillment of God's purposes through diverse peoples and empires. Conclusion While the specific identification of Tarshish as a Persian prince is not explicitly detailed in the biblical text, the name's association with wealth, trade, and distant lands, along with its genealogical roots, provides a rich tapestry for understanding its role in the biblical narrative. The mention of Tarshish in various contexts highlights the complexity and interconnectedness of the ancient world as seen through the lens of Scripture. Nave's Topical Index Esther 1:14And the next to him was Carshena, Shethar, Admatha, Tarshish, Meres, Marsena, and Memucan, the seven princes of Persia and Media, which saw the king's face, and which sat the first in the kingdom;) Nave's Topical Index Library Book 9 Footnotes The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus [Endnotes] Resources Does the Bible say anything about Russia in relation to the end times? | GotQuestions.orgQuestions about Jonah | GotQuestions.org Summary of the Book of Jonah - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Tarshish: Also Called Tharshish: Commerce and Wealth of Tarshish: Also Called Tharshish: Jonah Would Flee To Tarshish: Also Called Tharshish: Probably Spain Tarshish: Also Called Tharshish: Prophecies Concerning Tarshish: Also Called Tharshish: Solomon Makes Valuable Imports From Related Terms |
    |