Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, ships were essential for trade, travel, and warfare, playing a significant role in the economic and cultural exchanges of the ancient world. The Bible references ships in various contexts, highlighting their importance and the skills required to build and navigate them.Old Testament References The earliest mention of ships in the Bible is found in Genesis 49:13, where 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 passage indicates the maritime activities associated with the tribe of Zebulun, suggesting their involvement in trade and commerce. King Solomon's reign marked a significant period for shipbuilding and maritime trade. In 1 Kings 9:26-28, Solomon is described as having built a fleet of ships at Ezion-geber, near Eloth on the shore of the Red Sea. These ships, manned by Hiram's experienced sailors, were used to bring gold from Ophir, demonstrating the wealth and expansive trade networks of Solomon's kingdom. The prophet Isaiah also references ships in his prophecies. In Isaiah 2:16, he speaks of "all the ships of Tarshish and all the beautiful vessels," symbolizing the pride and wealth of nations that would be humbled before the Lord. Tarshish, often associated with distant lands, was known for its ships and extensive trade routes. New Testament References In the New Testament, ships are prominently featured in the accounts of Jesus' ministry and the travels of the Apostle Paul. The Sea of Galilee, a central location in Jesus' ministry, was a hub of fishing activity. In Matthew 4:21-22, Jesus calls James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were in a boat with their father, mending their nets. This scene underscores the significance of fishing and boats in the daily lives of the people in Galilee. The Apostle Paul's missionary journeys frequently involved sea travel. In Acts 27, Paul is described as being aboard a ship bound for Rome when a violent storm arises. The detailed account of the shipwreck highlights the perils of ancient maritime travel and the reliance on divine providence for safety. Acts 27:41 states, "But the vessel struck a sandbar and ran aground. The bow stuck fast and would not move, and the stern was being broken up by the pounding of the waves." Symbolism and Metaphors Ships in the Bible often serve as symbols of human endeavor, exploration, and the spread of the Gospel. The imagery of ships is used metaphorically to describe the church and the journey of faith. For instance, the early church fathers frequently likened the church to a ship navigating the seas of life, with Christ as the captain guiding believers safely to their heavenly destination. In Revelation 18:17-19, the fall of Babylon is lamented by the merchants and shipmasters who profited from her trade. The passage illustrates the transient nature of earthly wealth and the ultimate judgment of God upon human pride and materialism. Conclusion Throughout the Bible, ships are depicted as instruments of commerce, symbols of human ambition, and vehicles for divine missions. They reflect the interconnectedness of ancient societies and the enduring themes of faith, providence, and the sovereignty of God over the seas and all creation. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 23:14Howl, you ships of Tarshish: for your strength is laid waste. Torrey's Topical Textbook Greek 4632. skeuos -- a vessel, implement, pl. goods ... a vessel to contain liquid; a vessel of mercy or wrath; any instrument by which anything is done; a household utensil; of ships: tackle. ... Strong's Numbers. //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4632.htm - 6k 4143. ploion -- a boat Strong's Hebrew 590. oni -- ships, a fleet... from 'anah (in the sense of conveyance); -a ship or (collectively)a fleet -- galley, navy (of ships). see HEBREW 'anah. 589, 590. oni. 591 . Strong's Numbers /hebrew/590.htm - 6k 591. oniyyah -- a ship 6716a. tsi -- a ship Library Strong Christians. Psalm XLVIII. On Genesis. The Saviour's Last Command. The Council of Tyre and First Exile of Athanasius, 335-337. The Puritan Beginnings of the Church in virginia ---Its Decline ... Feeding the Multitudes. The Galleys The Roman Power. Shod for the Road Resources Is there any truth to the Bermuda Triangle conspiracy theories? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is Ugaritic, and what does it have to do with the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Do the news reports of rivers turning blood red have anything to do with the end times? | 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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