Topical Bible: Rocks: Dreaded by Mariners

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In biblical times, rocks and rocky coastlines were a significant concern for mariners. The ancient world, with its limited navigational tools, often saw ships fall victim to the hidden dangers posed by submerged rocks and treacherous coastlines. The Bible, while primarily a spiritual and theological text, contains references that highlight the perilous nature of rocks for those at sea.

Biblical References:

1. Acts 27:29 · In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul’s journey to Rome provides a vivid account of the dangers faced by mariners. As Paul and his companions were caught in a storm, the crew feared they might run aground on the rocks. The passage states, "Fearing that we would run aground on the rocks, they dropped four anchors from the stern and prayed for daylight." This verse underscores the anxiety and fear that rocks instilled in sailors, as they could lead to shipwreck and loss of life.

2. Ezekiel 27:26-27 · The prophet Ezekiel, in his lamentation over Tyre, uses maritime imagery to describe the city's downfall. "Your rowers have brought you onto the high seas, but the east wind has broken you in the heart of the sea. Your wealth, merchandise, and wares, your mariners, seamen, and shipwrights, your merchants and all your soldiers, and everyone else on board will sink into the heart of the sea on the day of your shipwreck." While not explicitly mentioning rocks, the imagery of shipwreck conveys the inherent dangers of the sea, including the threat of rocky coastlines.

3. Psalm 107:23-27 · This psalm speaks of those who "go down to the sea in ships, who do business on great waters." It describes the perils faced by sailors, including storms that lift the waves high. "They mounted up to the heavens, they went down to the depths; their courage melted away in their misery." The implicit threat of rocks is present in the chaos and danger of the sea, where hidden obstacles could easily lead to disaster.

Symbolic and Spiritual Implications:

In addition to their literal danger, rocks in the Bible often carry symbolic meanings. They can represent strength and stability, as seen in references to God as a "rock" or "fortress" (e.g., Psalm 18:2). However, in the context of maritime travel, rocks symbolize hidden dangers and the potential for sudden destruction. This duality reflects the broader biblical theme of God's creation as both a source of life and a reminder of human vulnerability.

Historical Context:

The Mediterranean Sea, a central hub for trade and travel in biblical times, was notorious for its unpredictable weather and rocky coastlines. Mariners had to navigate carefully to avoid the numerous hazards that could lead to shipwreck. The fear of rocks was not unfounded, as many ancient ships met their end on unseen reefs or jagged shores.

Conclusion:

The biblical portrayal of rocks as dreaded by mariners serves as a reminder of the perils faced by those who ventured onto the sea. It highlights the vulnerability of human endeavors in the face of nature's power, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Acts 27:20
And when neither sun nor stars in many days appeared, and no small tempest lay on us, all hope that we should be saved was then taken away.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Nile and Egypt
... Then follows Gebel Abufeda, dreaded by the sailors for ... taken from the top of the
rocks of Abusir ... archipelagoes which Portuguese and Breton mariners were wont to ...
/.../chapter i the nile and egypt.htm

Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest
... along which the assailants were obliged to advance in single file, as best they
could, exposed to the assaults of a foe concealed among the rocks and trees. ...
/.../chapter iisyria at the beginning.htm