Topical Bible: Tyre: Supplied: Seamen for Solomon's Navy

◄ Tyre: Supplied: Seamen for Solomon's Navy ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Tyre, an ancient Phoenician city located on the Mediterranean coast, played a significant role in the biblical narrative, particularly during the reign of King Solomon. Known for its skilled artisans and seafarers, Tyre was a hub of commerce and maritime activity. The city's relationship with Israel is notably marked by its contribution to Solomon's ambitious building projects, including the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem.

Biblical Context and Historical Background

Tyre was a prominent city in Phoenicia, renowned for its wealth and expertise in trade and navigation. The Phoenicians were master shipbuilders and sailors, and Tyre was at the heart of this maritime culture. The city's strategic location and its access to the resources of the sea made it a vital ally for any nation seeking to expand its influence through trade and naval power.

Alliance with King Solomon

The alliance between Tyre and Israel is most prominently illustrated in the relationship between King Solomon and Hiram, the king of Tyre. This partnership is documented in the biblical account of Solomon's reign, where Hiram's assistance was crucial in the construction of the Temple. The Berean Standard Bible records this collaboration in 1 Kings 5:1-12, where Hiram supplies Solomon with cedar and cypress timber, as well as skilled laborers.

Seamen for Solomon's Navy

One of the key contributions of Tyre to Solomon's kingdom was the provision of experienced seamen for his navy. The Bible highlights this in 1 Kings 9:26-27 : "King Solomon also built a fleet of ships at Ezion-geber, which is near Eloth in the land of Edom, on the shore of the Red Sea. And Hiram sent his servants, men who knew the sea, to serve in the fleet with Solomon’s servants." This collaboration enabled Solomon to establish a formidable naval presence, enhancing trade and securing economic prosperity for Israel.

Cultural and Economic Impact

The seamen from Tyre brought with them not only their navigational skills but also their knowledge of trade routes and foreign markets. This expertise was invaluable to Solomon's kingdom, facilitating the import of gold, silver, ivory, and other luxury goods from distant lands. The partnership with Tyre thus contributed significantly to the wealth and splendor of Solomon's reign, as described in 1 Kings 10:22 : "For the king had the ships of Tarshish at sea with Hiram’s fleet, and once every three years the ships of Tarshish would arrive bearing gold, silver, ivory, apes, and peacocks."

Legacy and Theological Significance

The alliance between Tyre and Israel during Solomon's reign is a testament to the interconnectedness of ancient Near Eastern cultures and the importance of maritime trade in the biblical world. Tyre's role in supplying seamen for Solomon's navy underscores the city's reputation for nautical expertise and highlights the mutual benefits of international cooperation. This relationship also reflects the broader biblical theme of God's providence in using diverse peoples and nations to fulfill His purposes for Israel.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Kings 9:27
And Hiram sent in the navy his servants, shipmen that had knowledge of the sea, with the servants of Solomon.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Chronicles 8:18
And Huram sent him by the hands of his servants ships, and servants that had knowledge of the sea; and they went with the servants of Solomon to Ophir, and took there four hundred and fifty talents of gold, and brought them to king Solomon.
Torrey's Topical Textbook