Topical Encyclopedia The term "Ships of Alexandria" refers to the large grain ships that sailed from Alexandria, Egypt, to various parts of the Roman Empire, including Rome itself. Alexandria, founded by Alexander the Great, was a major center of commerce and trade in the ancient world. Its strategic location on the Mediterranean Sea made it a hub for the export of Egyptian grain, which was a staple for the Roman populace.Biblical Reference: The most notable mention of a ship of Alexandria in the Bible is found in the account of the Apostle Paul's journey to Rome. In Acts 27:6 , it is recorded: "There the centurion found an Alexandrian ship sailing for Italy and put us on board." This passage highlights the significance of these ships in facilitating travel and trade across the Mediterranean. The ship Paul boarded was likely a large grain ship, as Alexandria was renowned for its grain exports. Historical Context: During the Roman Empire, Egypt was considered the breadbasket of Rome. The fertile Nile Delta produced vast quantities of grain, which were essential for feeding the Roman population. The ships of Alexandria were specially designed to carry large cargoes of grain. These vessels were among the largest of their time, capable of withstanding the long and often perilous journey across the Mediterranean Sea. The grain trade was so vital that the Roman government took measures to ensure its security and efficiency. The ships were often under the protection of the Roman navy, and their safe passage was a matter of state interest. The importance of these ships is underscored by the fact that they were sometimes referred to as "imperial ships," reflecting their critical role in sustaining the Roman economy and populace. Cultural and Religious Significance: In the context of the early Christian church, the ships of Alexandria also played a role in the spread of the Gospel. The movement of people and goods across the Mediterranean facilitated the exchange of ideas and the dissemination of Christian teachings. Paul's journey to Rome, aboard an Alexandrian ship, is a testament to the interconnectedness of the ancient world and the providential use of existing trade routes for the advancement of the Gospel. The mention of the ship in Acts serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and provision. Despite the challenges and dangers faced during the voyage, including a violent storm and shipwreck, God's purposes were ultimately fulfilled. The narrative of Paul's journey illustrates the theme of divine guidance and protection, as well as the spread of Christianity through the infrastructure of the Roman Empire. Conclusion: The ships of Alexandria, while primarily commercial vessels, are woven into the biblical narrative as instruments of God's plan. Their role in the ancient world underscores the interconnectedness of commerce, culture, and faith, and their mention in Scripture highlights the historical and theological dimensions of the early Christian experience. Torrey's Topical Textbook Acts 27:6And there the centurion found a ship of Alexandria sailing into Italy; and he put us therein. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Alexandria and Rome - the Jewish Communities in the Capitals of ... Letter Lxxxii. To Athanasius, Bishop of Alexandria. How the Soldiers, Both in Judea and Egypt, Proclaimed Vespasian ... That Upon the Conquest and Slaughter of vitellius Vespasian ... Two Famous Versions of the Scriptures The Council of Tyre and First Exile of Athanasius, 335-337. Preaching for the Poor Epistle Lx. To Eulogius, Bishop. How Herod Got Away from the King of Arabia and Made Haste to Go ... How Taricheae was Taken. A Description of the River Jordan, and of ... 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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