Topical Bible: Ships: Generally Impelled by Sails

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Topical Encyclopedia

In biblical times, ships were a vital means of transportation and trade, particularly in the Mediterranean region. The construction and use of ships are mentioned throughout the Bible, reflecting their importance in ancient society. Ships were generally impelled by sails, harnessing the power of the wind to navigate the seas.

Old Testament References

The earliest mention of ships in the Bible is found in the context of trade and exploration. In Genesis 49:13, Jacob blesses his son Zebulun, saying, "Zebulun shall dwell by the seashore and become a haven for ships; his border shall extend to Sidon." This indicates the maritime activities associated with the tribe of Zebulun.

The construction of ships is notably mentioned during the reign of King Solomon. In 1 Kings 9:26-27, it is recorded, "King Solomon also built a fleet of ships at Ezion-geber, which is near Eloth in the land of Edom, on the shore of the Red Sea. And Hiram sent his servants, men who knew the sea, to serve in the fleet with Solomon’s servants." This fleet was used for trade, bringing gold, silver, ivory, apes, and peacocks from distant lands (1 Kings 10:22).

The prophet Isaiah also references ships in his prophecies. In Isaiah 33:21, he speaks of the LORD as a place of broad rivers and streams, "where no galley with oars will go, and no mighty ship will pass by." This imagery contrasts the power of God with human endeavors.

New Testament References

In the New Testament, ships play a significant role in the ministry of Jesus and the apostles. The Sea of Galilee, a freshwater lake, was a hub of fishing and transportation. Jesus often taught from boats, as seen in Luke 5:3, "He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little from shore. Then He sat down and taught the people from the boat."

The apostle Paul’s missionary journeys frequently involved sea travel. In Acts 27, Paul’s voyage to Rome is detailed, including a perilous storm that led to shipwreck. Acts 27:15 describes the ship being driven along by the wind: "Unable to head into the wind, the ship was caught up, and we gave way to it and were driven along."

Symbolism and Metaphor

Ships in the Bible often symbolize human endeavor and the journey of life. The reliance on sails and the wind can be seen as a metaphor for dependence on God’s guidance and provision. In James 3:4, the tongue is compared to a small rudder that steers a large ship, illustrating the power of words to direct the course of life.

Cultural and Historical Context

In the ancient world, ships were primarily constructed from wood and powered by sails, though oars were also used for navigation in calmer waters or when precision was needed. The design and technology of ships varied, with some being large enough to carry significant cargo and others designed for speed and agility.

The use of ships facilitated the spread of the gospel, as seen in the missionary journeys of Paul and other apostles. The Mediterranean Sea, with its extensive network of trade routes, allowed for the rapid dissemination of Christian teachings across diverse regions.

Conclusion

Ships, generally impelled by sails, are a recurring element in biblical narratives, symbolizing both the practical aspects of ancient life and deeper spiritual truths. Through their mention in Scripture, ships highlight themes of exploration, trade, divine guidance, and the spread of the gospel.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Acts 27:2-7
And entering into a ship of Adramyttium, we launched, meaning to sail by the coasts of Asia; one Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, being with us.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Preparations for the Invasion of Greece.
... Although it was generally on the Asiatic side of the ... to turn the course of the ships
back against ... and as the oars by which they were impelled required almost ...
//christianbookshelf.org/abbott/xerxes/chapter iv preparations for the.htm

From the Close of the General Conference of 1836 to the ...
... and egress for foreign vessels, except ships of war ... of a good understanding, and
being impelled by an ... however, he felt these embarrassments, he generally had a ...
/.../chapter 14 from the close.htm

The Last Days of the Old Eastern World
... None the less, however, when it was generally known that they had burnt the ... been
able to crush his adversary with the sheer weight of his ships and battalions. ...
/.../chapter iithe last days of 2.htm