Topical Encyclopedia The art of mariner, or seamanship, is a skill that is subtly woven throughout the biblical narrative, reflecting the importance of maritime activities in the ancient world. The Bible, while primarily focused on spiritual and moral teachings, provides glimpses into the life and skills of mariners, highlighting their role in trade, travel, and the spread of the Gospel.Biblical References and Context The ancient Israelites, though primarily a land-based people, were not strangers to the sea. The Mediterranean Sea, known as the "Great Sea" in the Bible, was a significant body of water for trade and travel. The Phoenicians, who lived along the coast of what is now Lebanon, were renowned mariners and shipbuilders, and their influence is evident in the biblical text. In the Old Testament, the construction of ships and the art of navigation are mentioned in several passages. King Solomon, known for his wisdom and wealth, engaged in maritime trade. In 1 Kings 9:26-28 , it is recorded: "King Solomon also built a fleet of ships at Ezion-geber, which is near Eloth on the shore of the Red Sea, in the land of Edom. And Hiram sent his servants, men who knew the sea, to serve in the fleet with Solomon’s servants. They sailed to Ophir and imported gold from there, bringing 420 talents back to King Solomon." The prophet Jonah's account provides a vivid depiction of maritime life and the challenges faced by sailors. Jonah 1:4-5 describes a storm at sea: "Then the LORD hurled a great wind upon the sea, and such a violent storm arose that the ship was in danger of breaking apart. The sailors were afraid, and each cried out to his own god. And they threw the ship’s cargo into the sea to lighten the load." This account highlights the mariners' skills in navigating storms and their reliance on divine intervention. New Testament Insights In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul's journeys provide further insight into the life of mariners. Paul's travels by sea were crucial for the spread of Christianity. Acts 27 offers a detailed account of one of Paul's voyages, including a shipwreck. Acts 27:27-29 states: "On the fourteenth night we were still being driven across the Adriatic Sea. About midnight the sailors sensed they were approaching land. They took soundings and found that the water was twenty fathoms deep. A short time later they took soundings again and found it was fifteen fathoms deep. Fearing that we would be dashed against the rocks, they dropped four anchors from the stern and prayed for daylight." This passage illustrates the mariners' expertise in navigation and their use of soundings to determine their position, as well as their practical measures to ensure safety. Symbolism and Spiritual Lessons The sea and maritime activities often serve as metaphors for spiritual truths in the Bible. The unpredictability of the sea is likened to the trials and tribulations of life, while the mariner's reliance on God amidst the storm reflects the believer's dependence on divine guidance. Psalm 107:23-30 poetically captures this theme: "Others went out to sea in ships, conducting trade on the mighty waters. They saw the works of the LORD, and His wonders in the deep. For He spoke and raised a tempest that lifted the waves of the sea. They mounted up to the heavens, then sunk to the depths; their courage melted in their anguish. They reeled and staggered like drunkards, and all their skill was useless. Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble, and He brought them out of their distress. He calmed the storm to a whisper, and the waves of the sea were hushed. They rejoiced in the silence, and He guided them to the harbor they desired." The art of the mariner, as depicted in the Bible, is not only a testament to human skill and ingenuity but also a reminder of the Creator's sovereignty over the natural world. Mariners, through their craft, bear witness to the wonders of God's creation and His providential care. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ezekiel 27:8,9The inhabitants of Zidon and Arvad were your mariners: your wise men, O Tyrus, that were in you, were your pilots. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Human Arts as Well as Divine Knowledge Proceed from God. Extracts No. Ii. The Case of Reason Impartially Considered The Progress of the Gospel section i. The Birth of England's Foreign Missions From the Close of the General Conference of 1824 to the ... Period iii. The Critical Period: AD 140 to AD 200 Ancient Chaldaea Book vii. This is the Seventh Book of Our Treatise against the ... Resources What is the difference between miracles and magic? | GotQuestions.orgWhat sort of outreach ministries should a church have? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about white magic? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |