Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Location Tarshish, sometimes spelled Tharshish, is a location mentioned several times in the Bible, often associated with wealth, trade, and maritime activities. The exact location of Tarshish has been a subject of debate among scholars and theologians. Traditionally, it is believed to be a distant port, possibly located in what is now modern-day Spain. This identification is based on historical and geographical considerations, as well as the nature of the goods associated with Tarshish in biblical texts. Biblical References Tarshish is first mentioned in the Table of Nations in Genesis 10:4, where it is listed as a descendant of Javan, indicating its connection to the maritime peoples of the Mediterranean. The Berean Standard Bible states: "The sons of Javan: Elishah, Tarshish, the Kittites, and the Rodanites." In the narrative of Jonah, Tarshish is depicted as a distant place to which the prophet attempts to flee from the presence of the Lord. Jonah 1:3 records: "But Jonah got up to flee to Tarshish, away from the presence of the LORD. He went down to Joppa and found a ship bound for Tarshish. So he paid the fare and went aboard to sail for Tarshish, away from the presence of the LORD." The wealth and trade associated with Tarshish are highlighted in several passages. In 1 Kings 10:22 , it is noted: "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 indicates the extensive trade network and the exotic goods that were imported from Tarshish. Prophetic Literature Tarshish is also mentioned in the prophetic books, often symbolizing the wealth and power of distant nations. In Isaiah 60:9 , the prophet envisions the ships of Tarshish bringing the sons of Israel back to their land: "Surely the islands will wait for Me, with the ships of Tarshish in the lead, to bring your children from afar, with their silver and gold, to the honor of the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, for He has glorified you." Ezekiel 27:12 describes Tarshish as a trading partner of Tyre, emphasizing its role in the ancient economy: "Tarshish was your merchant because of your great wealth of goods; they exchanged silver, iron, tin, and lead for your merchandise." Cultural and Theological Significance In the biblical narrative, Tarshish represents the far reaches of the known world, a place of both opportunity and escape. Its mention in the context of trade and wealth underscores the interconnectedness of ancient civilizations and the economic prosperity that maritime trade could bring. Theologically, Tarshish serves as a backdrop for themes of obedience and divine sovereignty, as seen in the account of Jonah, where human attempts to flee from God's presence are ultimately futile. The identification of Tarshish with Spain is supported by historical accounts of ancient trade routes and the presence of Phoenician colonies in the Iberian Peninsula. This connection highlights the extensive reach of ancient Israel's trade networks and the cultural exchanges that occurred across the Mediterranean region. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 10:4,5And the sons of Javan; Elishah, and Tarshish, Kittim, and Dodanim. Nave's Topical Index Psalm 72:10 Isaiah 66:19 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 |
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