Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionTarshish, also referred to as Tharshish in some biblical texts, is a location of significant interest in the Bible, often associated with wealth, maritime trade, and prophecy. The exact geographical location of Tarshish has been the subject of much scholarly debate, with suggestions ranging from the western Mediterranean region, such as Spain, to areas in the eastern Mediterranean or even beyond. In the biblical narrative, Tarshish is frequently mentioned in the context of trade and commerce, as well as in prophetic literature. Biblical References and Context 1. Trade and Wealth: Tarshish is prominently mentioned in the context of trade and wealth. The ships of Tarshish are noted for their role in transporting goods and wealth across the seas. In Ezekiel 27:12, the prophet describes Tyre's trade with Tarshish: "Tarshish was your trading partner because of your abundant wealth of every kind; they exchanged silver, iron, tin, and lead for your merchandise." This highlights Tarshish as a significant trading partner, known for its valuable resources. 2. Prophetic Literature: The prophets often mention Tarshish in their oracles, sometimes as a symbol of distant lands or as part of eschatological visions. In Isaiah 2:16, the prophet speaks against the pride of human achievements, including "against every ship of Tarshish, and against every stately vessel." This passage suggests that the ships of Tarshish, emblematic of human pride and economic power, will be humbled in the day of the Lord. 3. Judgment and Restoration: In the prophetic literature, Tarshish is sometimes included in the broader themes of judgment and restoration. Isaiah 60:9 speaks of the future glory of Zion, where "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, because He has glorified you." Here, the ships of Tarshish are envisioned as instruments in the gathering of the exiles and the restoration of Israel, bringing wealth and honor to the Lord. 4. Jonah's Flight: The account of Jonah provides another notable mention of Tarshish. In Jonah 1:3, the prophet attempts to flee from the presence of the Lord by boarding a ship bound for Tarshish: "But Jonah got up to flee to Tarshish 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." This narrative underscores Tarshish as a distant and seemingly unreachable destination, symbolizing Jonah's attempt to escape God's call. Conclusion The biblical references to Tarshish paint a picture of a distant, wealthy, and influential place, integral to the trade networks of the ancient world. In prophetic literature, Tarshish serves as a symbol of human pride, economic power, and the far-reaching scope of God's plans for judgment and restoration. The ships of Tarshish, in particular, are emblematic of both the material wealth of the nations and the ultimate submission of all human endeavors to the divine will. Nave's Topical Index Psalm 72:10The kings of Tarshish and of the isles shall bring presents: the kings of Sheba and Seba shall offer gifts. Nave's Topical Index Isaiah 2:16 Isaiah 23:1-14 Isaiah 60:9 Isaiah 66:19 Resources What is the sign of Jonah? | GotQuestions.orgWas Jonah truly swallowed by a whale? | GotQuestions.org Did Jonah die while he was in the belly of the fish (Jonah 2)? | 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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