Topical Encyclopedia The phrase "ships of industrious women" is not a direct biblical term but can be derived from the imagery and themes found in the Bible, particularly in the context of industriousness, diligence, and the role of women in biblical narratives. The Bible often uses maritime imagery to convey themes of commerce, exploration, and provision, which can be metaphorically linked to the industrious nature of women as depicted in Scripture.Proverbs 31:10-31: The Virtuous Woman The most direct biblical reference to industrious women is found in Proverbs 31, which describes the "wife of noble character." This passage highlights the diligence, wisdom, and industrious nature of a virtuous woman. Proverbs 31:14 states, "She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar." This verse uses the imagery of merchant ships to illustrate the woman's resourcefulness and ability to provide for her household. Her activities are likened to the far-reaching and profitable ventures of ships, emphasizing her role in ensuring the well-being and prosperity of her family. Role in Commerce and Provision In ancient times, ships were essential for trade and commerce, symbolizing wealth and the exchange of goods. Similarly, the industrious woman in Proverbs 31 engages in commerce, as seen in Proverbs 31:16, "She considers a field and buys it; from her earnings she plants a vineyard." Her involvement in economic activities reflects her wisdom and foresight, qualities that are highly valued in the biblical narrative. Symbolism of Ships Ships in the Bible often symbolize exploration, adventure, and the pursuit of prosperity. In the context of industrious women, this symbolism can be extended to represent the exploration of opportunities and the pursuit of excellence in managing household affairs. The virtuous woman’s ability to "bring her food from afar" suggests a proactive approach to securing resources, much like a ship that travels great distances to bring back valuable goods. Biblical Examples of Industrious Women Throughout the Bible, there are numerous examples of industrious women who, like ships, navigate challenges and contribute significantly to their communities and families. For instance, Lydia, a seller of purple goods in Acts 16:14, is noted for her business acumen and hospitality. Her role in the early Christian community highlights the impact of industrious women in the spread of the Gospel. Cultural and Historical Context In the cultural and historical context of the Bible, women often played crucial roles in the economic and social spheres of their communities. The depiction of women as industrious and capable reflects the biblical acknowledgment of their contributions beyond domestic duties. The metaphor of ships underscores the value of their work and the breadth of their influence. Conclusion The imagery of "ships of industrious women" serves as a powerful metaphor for the diligence, resourcefulness, and economic contributions of women in biblical times. Through their actions, these women exemplify the virtues of wisdom, foresight, and hard work, qualities that are celebrated and esteemed in the biblical narrative. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 31:14She is like the merchants' ships; she brings her food from afar. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Colonization. The Battle of Salamis. The Burning of Athens. 1875-1877. Mrs. Way's Sewing --Class for Jewesses --Bible Flower ... Monos The Foreign Missions and their Influence. The Land and the People. Down the Islands India as Carey Found It The Puritan Conflict. 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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