Topical Encyclopedia In the ancient world, ships were vital for trade, travel, and warfare, and their swiftness was often a subject of admiration and metaphorical significance in biblical literature. The Bible references ships in various contexts, highlighting their speed and agility as notable attributes.Biblical References: 1. Isaiah 18:2 · The prophet Isaiah speaks of swift messengers sent by sea, likening them to "vessels of papyrus on the waters." This imagery underscores the speed and efficiency of these ships, which were crucial for communication and trade across distant lands. 2. Job 9:26 · In his discourse on the fleeting nature of life, Job compares his days to "swift ships," emphasizing the rapid passage of time. This metaphor illustrates the transitory nature of human existence, much like the swift movement of ships across the sea. 3. Ezekiel 27:5-6 · The prophet Ezekiel describes the construction of Tyre's ships, noting their craftsmanship and speed. The passage highlights the use of the finest materials, such as fir trees from Senir and oars of Bashan, contributing to the swiftness and strength of these vessels. 4. Acts 27:13-15 · In the New Testament, the account of Paul's journey to Rome includes a description of a ship caught in a storm. The narrative details the ship's swift movement driven by the wind, illustrating the power and speed of ancient maritime vessels. Symbolic Significance: In biblical literature, the swiftness of ships often serves as a metaphor for various spiritual and existential themes. The rapid movement of ships can symbolize the fleeting nature of life, the urgency of divine messages, or the unstoppable force of God's will. The imagery of swift ships conveys a sense of urgency and purpose, reflecting the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of God's plans. Cultural and Historical Context: In the ancient Near East, ships were essential for commerce and communication. The Mediterranean Sea, with its numerous ports and trade routes, was a hub of economic activity. The design and construction of ships were advanced for their time, allowing for swift travel across the waters. The biblical references to swift ships reflect the importance of maritime technology and its impact on the societies of the biblical world. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the swiftness of ships can be seen as a reflection of God's providence and the unfolding of His divine plan. Just as ships swiftly navigate the seas, God's purposes move forward with precision and speed, often beyond human understanding. The imagery of swift ships serves as a reminder of the sovereignty and omnipotence of God, who directs the course of history according to His will. Torrey's Topical Textbook Job 9:26They are passed away as the swift ships: as the eagle that hastens to the prey. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library March 16 Morning A Song of Deliverance "In the Uttermost Parts of the Sea" Psalm 104. The Glory of God in Creation and Providence. Psalm 104 the Glory of God in Creation and Providence. The Retreat from Scythia. The Puritan Beginnings of the Church in virginia ---Its Decline ... Striking Similes Isaiah The Last Buccaneer Resources What happened in the Six-Day War? | GotQuestions.orgWho is the king of the North in Daniel 11? | GotQuestions.org Who is the king of the South in Daniel 11? | 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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