Topical Bible: The Cedar used In Making Masts of Ships

Bible > Topical > The Cedar used In Making Masts of Ships

◄ The Cedar used In Making Masts of Ships ►

Jump to: Torrey's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

The cedar tree, renowned for its strength, durability, and majestic stature, holds a significant place in biblical literature and ancient craftsmanship. In the context of shipbuilding, cedar wood was highly prized for its use in constructing masts, a testament to its robustness and ability to withstand the harsh conditions of the sea.

Biblical References:

The use of cedar in shipbuilding is explicitly mentioned in the book of Ezekiel. In Ezekiel 27:5 , the prophet describes the grandeur of Tyre, a prominent ancient maritime city, stating, "They constructed all your planking with cypress from Senir. They took a cedar from Lebanon to make a mast for you." This passage highlights the importance of cedar from Lebanon, a region famed for its high-quality cedar forests, in the construction of ships, particularly for the masts, which are critical for the stability and navigation of a vessel.

Symbolism and Significance:

Cedar wood, especially from Lebanon, is frequently associated with strength and longevity in the Bible. Its use in making masts for ships symbolizes not only the physical strength required to support sails and withstand the elements but also the economic and military power of seafaring nations like Tyre. The choice of cedar reflects the desire for the best materials to ensure the safety and success of maritime ventures.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In the ancient Near East, the cedar of Lebanon was a highly sought-after commodity. Its reputation for quality made it a preferred material not only for shipbuilding but also for constructing temples, palaces, and other significant structures. The Phoenicians, renowned for their shipbuilding skills, extensively utilized cedar in their fleets, which facilitated trade and cultural exchange across the Mediterranean.

The biblical mention of cedar masts underscores the interconnectedness of ancient economies and the reliance on natural resources to advance technology and commerce. The cedar's role in shipbuilding is a reflection of the broader biblical theme of God's provision through nature, enabling human endeavors and the spread of civilization.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the use of cedar in shipbuilding can be seen as an illustration of God's creation providing for human needs. The strength and resilience of cedar wood serve as a metaphor for divine protection and the enduring nature of God's promises. In the broader biblical narrative, the cedar's role in constructing ships that traverse the seas can be viewed as a symbol of the spread of God's word and influence across nations, facilitated by the very materials He created.

In summary, the cedar used in making masts of ships is a powerful symbol of strength, durability, and divine provision, deeply rooted in the biblical and historical context of the ancient world.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Ezekiel 27:5
They have made all your ship boards of fir trees of Senir: they have taken cedars from Lebanon to make masts for you.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Memphite Empire
... with here and elsewhere in moderate quantities, were used in the ... two low and narrow
chambers, then making a sharp ... The mummy-case of cedar-wood had a man's head ...
/.../chapter iithe memphite empire.htm

Sennacherib (705-681 BC )
... the peaks of Nipur, had been making frequent descents ... those which the Mediterranean
natives used for their ... style, with woodwork of fragrant cedar and cypress ...
/.../chapter isennacherib 705-681 b c.htm

The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty --(Continued)
... or for ornamental work"pine,cypress, yew, cedar, and oak ... the majority of the prisoners
were used as workmen ... 058.jpg A GANG Of SYRIAN PRISONERS MAKING BRICK FOR ...
/.../chapter ithe eighteenth theban dynastycontinued.htm

Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... that was in Lebanon sent to the cedar that was ... hands of the Assyrians, and that
Tiglath-pileser used it as ... There, while he was making ready to claim the homage ...
/.../chapter iitiglath-pileser iii and the.htm