Topical Bible: Fishes: The People of Tyre Traded In

◄ Fishes: The People of Tyre Traded In ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The ancient city of Tyre, a prominent Phoenician seaport, was renowned for its extensive trade networks and maritime prowess. Among the various commodities traded by the Tyrians, fish held a significant place due to the city's strategic coastal location and its access to the rich fishing grounds of the Mediterranean Sea.

Biblical References:

The Bible provides insight into the commercial activities of Tyre, highlighting its role as a bustling hub of trade. In Ezekiel 27, the prophet delivers a lamentation over Tyre, describing its vast trading empire and the multitude of goods exchanged through its ports. While the chapter does not explicitly mention fish, it paints a picture of a city deeply engaged in maritime commerce. Ezekiel 27:12-13 states, "Tarshish was your trading partner because of your abundant wealth of every kind; they exchanged silver, iron, tin, and lead for your merchandise. Javan, Tubal, and Meshech were your merchants; they exchanged slaves and bronze articles for your goods."

The absence of a direct mention of fish in this passage does not diminish its importance in Tyre's trade. The Mediterranean Sea, teeming with marine life, provided an abundant supply of fish, which would have been a staple in the diet of the region and a valuable trade commodity.

Historical and Cultural Context:

The Phoenicians, including the people of Tyre, were skilled sailors and traders, known for their ability to navigate the Mediterranean and establish trade routes that extended as far as the British Isles and the African coast. Their expertise in shipbuilding and navigation facilitated the transport of various goods, including fish, to distant markets.

Fish was a crucial part of the diet in the ancient Near East, and its trade would have been essential for cities like Tyre, which relied on both local consumption and export to sustain their economy. The preservation of fish through salting and drying allowed it to be transported over long distances, making it a viable trade item.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the trade practices of Tyre, including the exchange of fish, can be seen as a reflection of the city's material wealth and its reliance on commerce rather than on God. The prophets often criticized Tyre for its pride and self-sufficiency, warning of divine judgment due to its arrogance and idolatry. Ezekiel 28:2 declares, "Son of man, say to the ruler of Tyre, 'This is what the Lord GOD says: Your heart is proud, and you have said, "I am a god; I sit in the seat of gods in the heart of the sea." Yet you are a man and not a god, though you have regarded your heart as that of a god.'"

The trade in fish, while a testament to Tyre's economic strength, also serves as a reminder of the city's misplaced trust in its own abilities and resources. The biblical narrative encourages reliance on God rather than on material wealth, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture.

Conclusion:

The trade of fish by the people of Tyre, though not explicitly detailed in the biblical text, is an integral part of understanding the city's economic and cultural landscape. It underscores the significance of maritime commerce in the ancient world and serves as a backdrop for the prophetic messages directed at Tyre, calling for humility and dependence on God.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Nehemiah 13:16
There dwelled men of Tyre also therein, which brought fish, and all manner of ware, and sold on the sabbath to the children of Judah, and in Jerusalem.
Torrey's Topical Textbook