Topical Encyclopedia The term "Tarshish-fleet" refers to a class of ships mentioned in the Bible, associated with long-distance trade and maritime prowess. These ships are named after Tarshish, a distant port or region, often identified with locations such as Tartessos in Spain or other areas in the western Mediterranean. The Tarshish-fleet is emblematic of wealth, commerce, and the expansive reach of ancient Israel's trade networks.Biblical References: 1. 1 Kings 10:22 : "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 passage highlights the collaboration between King Solomon and Hiram of Tyre, showcasing the opulence and exotic goods brought to Israel through these maritime ventures. 2. 2 Chronicles 9:21 : "For the king’s ships went to Tarshish with the servants of Huram. Every three years they would return, bringing gold, silver, ivory, apes, and peacocks." This parallel account to 1 Kings 10:22 underscores the regularity and significance of the trade expeditions undertaken by the Tarshish-fleet. 3. 1 Kings 22:48 : "Jehoshaphat built ships of Tarshish to go to Ophir for gold, but they never set sail, because they were wrecked at Ezion-geber." This verse illustrates the challenges and risks associated with maritime endeavors, as well as the ambition of Judah's kings to engage in lucrative trade. 4. Isaiah 2:16 : "against every ship of Tarshish, and every stately vessel." Here, the ships of Tarshish are used metaphorically to represent human pride and the grandeur of human achievements, which are subject to divine judgment. 5. Ezekiel 27:25 : "The ships of Tarshish carried your merchandise. And you were filled with heavy cargo in the heart of the sea." This passage, part of a lament over Tyre, highlights the role of Tarshish-fleet in the extensive trade networks of the ancient Near East. Historical and Cultural Context: The Tarshish-fleet is indicative of the advanced shipbuilding and navigational skills of the ancient Phoenicians, who were renowned for their seafaring capabilities. These ships were likely large, sturdy vessels capable of long voyages across the Mediterranean Sea, facilitating trade between the Levant and distant lands. The goods transported by the Tarshish-fleet, such as gold, silver, and exotic animals, reflect the wealth and cultural exchanges of the period. The identification of Tarshish itself remains a subject of scholarly debate, with various theories proposing locations in Spain, Sardinia, or even the British Isles. Regardless of its precise location, Tarshish symbolizes the farthest reaches of the known world to the ancient Israelites, representing both opportunity and mystery. Theological Significance: In the biblical narrative, the Tarshish-fleet serves as a symbol of human enterprise and the pursuit of wealth. The prosperity brought by these ships is seen as a blessing from God, yet it also carries a warning against pride and reliance on material riches. The prophets, such as Isaiah and Ezekiel, use the imagery of the Tarshish-fleet to convey messages of divine sovereignty and the ultimate futility of human arrogance. The Tarshish-fleet, therefore, is not only a testament to the historical realities of ancient trade but also a vehicle for theological reflection on the relationship between God, humanity, and the material world. Concordance Tarshish-fleet (1 Occurrence)1 Kings 10:22 Thesaurus Tarshish-fleet (1 Occurrence)Tarshish-fleet. Tarshishah, Tarshish-fleet. Tarshish-ship . Multi-Version Concordance Tarshish-fleet (1 Occurrence). ... /t/tarshish-fleet.htm - 6k Fleet (7 Occurrences) Tarshishah (1 Occurrence) Tarshish-ship (1 Occurrence) Resources Who was Eliezer in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did Jonah try to go to Tarshish instead of Nineveh? | GotQuestions.org Who was Pliny the Elder? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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