Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, "wares" refers to goods or merchandise that are bought and sold in the marketplace. The concept of commerce and trade is woven throughout the Scriptures, reflecting the economic activities of ancient societies. The Bible provides insights into the nature of trade, the moral implications of commerce, and the spiritual lessons that can be drawn from these activities.Biblical References to Wares 1. Ezekiel 27:12-25: This passage provides a detailed account of the trade activities of Tyre, a prominent ancient city known for its commerce. The text lists various goods, or "wares," that were traded, including silver, iron, tin, lead, and other valuable items. The passage highlights the extensive network of trade that Tyre engaged in, dealing with many nations and peoples. "Tarshish was your trading partner because of your abundant wealth of every kind; they exchanged silver, iron, tin, and lead for your wares." (Ezekiel 27:12) 2. Nehemiah 13:16: This verse describes the presence of merchants in Jerusalem who sold their wares on the Sabbath, an act that Nehemiah condemned as it violated the sanctity of the Sabbath day. This incident underscores the tension between commercial activities and religious observance. "Additionally, men of Tyre who lived there were importing fish and all kinds of merchandise and selling them on the Sabbath to the people of Judah in Jerusalem." (Nehemiah 13:16) 3. Revelation 18:11-13: In this apocalyptic vision, the fall of Babylon is lamented by merchants who mourn the loss of their trade. The passage lists a variety of wares, including gold, silver, precious stones, and other luxurious items, illustrating the wealth and opulence associated with Babylon's commerce. "And the merchants of the earth will weep and mourn over her, because there is no one left to buy their cargo—cargo of gold, silver, precious stones, and pearls; fine linen, purple, silk, and scarlet; all kinds of citron wood and every article of ivory and precious wood, bronze, iron, and marble;" (Revelation 18:11-12) Moral and Spiritual Implications The Bible often addresses the moral dimensions of commerce, emphasizing honesty, fairness, and integrity in trade. Proverbs 11:1 states, "Dishonest scales are an abomination to the LORD, but an accurate weight is His delight." This highlights the importance of ethical practices in business dealings. Furthermore, the Scriptures caution against the love of money and materialism, as seen in 1 Timothy 6:10: "For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil." The pursuit of wealth through commerce should not overshadow one's devotion to God and adherence to His commandments. Commerce as a Reflection of Society In biblical times, commerce was a reflection of the interconnectedness of different cultures and societies. The exchange of wares facilitated not only economic prosperity but also cultural and social interactions. However, the Bible also warns against the potential for commerce to lead to exploitation and moral decay, as seen in the prophetic critiques of nations like Tyre and Babylon. Overall, the biblical perspective on wares and commerce provides valuable lessons on the ethical conduct of business, the dangers of materialism, and the importance of maintaining a balance between economic activities and spiritual commitments. Torrey's Topical Textbook Jeremiah 10:17Gather up your wares out of the land, O inhabitant of the fortress. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ezekiel 27:16 Jonah 1:5 Library The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus The Reaction against Egypt Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest The Political Constitution of Egypt The Rise of the Assyrian Empire Resources How is Satan god of this world (2 Corinthians 4:4)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of “Cast your bread upon the waters” in Ecclesiastes 11:1? | GotQuestions.org Who were the Pharisees? | GotQuestions.org Commerce: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Commerce of the Jews: Checked in Jehoshaphat's Time Commerce of the Jews: Commenced After Their Settlement in Canaan Commerce of the Jews: Greatly Extended by Solomon Commerce of the Jews: Under Strict Laws Commerce: Articles of Blue Cloth Commerce: Articles of Bodies and Souls of Men Commerce: Articles of Chariots Commerce: Articles of Chest of Rich Apparel Commerce: Articles of Chests of Rich Apparel Commerce: Articles of Cinnamon Commerce: Articles of Clothes for Chariots Commerce: Articles of Embroidery Commerce: Articles of Frankincense Commerce: Articles of Iron and Steel Commerce: Articles of Peacocks Commerce: Articles of Perfumes Commerce: Articles of Precious Stones Commerce: Articles of Sweet Cane Commerce: Articles of Thyine Wood Commerce: Articles of White Wool Commerce: Articles of, Called: Merchandise Commerce: Articles of, Called: Wares Commerce: Called: Buying and Selling Commerce: Carried on by Egyptians Commerce: Carried on by Ethiopians Commerce: Carried on by Ishmaelites Commerce: Carried on by Means of Caravans Commerce: Carried on by Means of Ships Commerce: Carried on by Ninevites Commerce: Carried on by People of Tarshish Commerce: Carried on by People of Tyre Commerce: Carried on by Syrians Commerce: Denunciations Connected With Abuses of Commerce: Evil Practices Connected With Commerce: Illustrative of Intercourse With the Apostasy Commerce: Increased the Wealth of Nations and Individuals Commerce: Persons Engaged In, Called: Chapmen Commerce: Persons Engaged In, Called: Merchants Commerce: Persons Engaged In, Called: Sellers and Buyers Commerce: Persons Engaged In, Called: Traffickers Commerce: Persons of Distinction Engaged In Commerce: Success In, Led to Pride Commerce: The Barter of One Commodity for Another Commerce: The Exchange of Commodities for Money Commerce: Transportation of Passengers Related Terms |
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