Topical Encyclopedia The Bible often uses the imagery of ships and their courses through the sea to convey themes of exploration, trade, divine providence, and human endeavor. The vastness and unpredictability of the sea serve as a backdrop for illustrating God's sovereignty and the wonders of His creation.Biblical References and Symbolism 1. Psalm 107:23-24 : "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." This passage highlights the experience of those who venture into the sea, witnessing firsthand the majesty and power of God's creation. The sea is depicted as a place where God's wonders are manifest, and those who navigate its waters are privileged to observe His handiwork. 2. Proverbs 30:18-19 : "There are three things too wonderful for me, four that I cannot understand: the way of an eagle in the sky, the way of a serpent on a rock, the way of a ship in the heart of the sea, and the way of a man with a maiden." The course of a ship through the sea is listed among the mysteries of creation, illustrating the marvel and complexity of navigation and the divine wisdom inherent in the natural world. 3. Ezekiel 27:25-26 : "The ships of Tarshish carried your merchandise. You were filled with heavy cargo in the heart of the sea. Your oarsmen brought you onto the high seas, but the east wind will break you to pieces in the heart of the sea." This passage uses the metaphor of a ship to describe the rise and fall of Tyre, emphasizing the vulnerability of human enterprises to the forces of nature and divine judgment. Theological Implications The course of ships through the sea is emblematic of human ambition and the pursuit of commerce and knowledge. Yet, it also serves as a reminder of human limitations and the need for reliance on God's guidance and protection. The sea, with its vastness and potential for peril, symbolizes the challenges and uncertainties of life. Navigating these waters requires skill, wisdom, and faith. Divine Providence and Human Endeavor The Bible acknowledges the skill and courage required to navigate the sea, as well as the dependence on God's providence for safe passage. In ancient times, seafaring was fraught with danger, and successful voyages were often attributed to divine favor. The imagery of ships and the sea underscores the balance between human effort and divine sovereignty. Conclusion The biblical portrayal of ships and their courses through the sea invites reflection on the wonders of God's creation and the mysteries of His providence. It challenges believers to trust in God's guidance as they navigate the complexities of life, recognizing His hand in both the calm and the storm. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 30:18,19There be three things which are too wonderful for me, yes, four which I know not: Torrey's Topical Textbook Library His Name --Wonderful! The Invasion of Scythia. On the Formation of the Character of Believers, and on Giving of ... Treatise on the Priesthood. Book vi. On a Piece of Chalk. A Lecture to Working Men. Christ is Glorious --Let us Make Him Known Psalm CIV. The Review of the Troops at Doriscus. Croesus. Chapter xlix Resources Does the Bible say that an increase in technology is a sign of the end times? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the seven trumpets of Revelation? | GotQuestions.org What is cultural translation? Is cultural translation needed to properly understand the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Ships: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Ships: (Wrecked) Departure from the Faith Ships: Antiquity of, Among the Jews Ships: Course of Frequently Directed by the Heavenly Bodies Ships: Course of, Through the Midst of the Sea, Wonderful Ships: Employed in Carrying Passengers Ships: Endangered by Quicksands Ships: Generally Impelled by Sails Ships: Generally Made of the Fir Tree Ships: Governed and Directed by the Helm Ships: Guided in Their Course by Pilots Ships: Often the Property of Individuals Ships: Parts of Mentioned: The Anchors Ships: Parts of Mentioned: The Boats Ships: Parts of Mentioned: The Forepart or Foreship Ships: Parts of Mentioned: The Hinder Part or Stern Ships: Parts of Mentioned: The Hold or Between the Sides Ships: Parts of Mentioned: The Mast Ships: Parts of Mentioned: The Oars Ships: Parts of Mentioned: The Rudder or Helm Ships: Parts of Mentioned: The Rudder-Bands Ships: Parts of Mentioned: The Sails Ships: Parts of Mentioned: The Tackling Ships: Probably Originated from the Ark Made by Noah Ships: Solomon Built a Navy of Ships: Sometimes Made of Bulrushes Ships: Soundings Usually Taken For, in Dangerous Places Ships: The Hinder Part of, Occupied by the Passengers Ships: The Seams of, Were Caulked Ships: Usually Distinguished by Signs or Figure Heads Ships: when Damaged Were Sometimes Undergirded With Cables Ships: Worked by Mariners or Sailors Related Terms |
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