Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Terminology: The term "coastland" in the Bible generally refers to regions or territories that are situated along the sea or ocean. These areas are often characterized by their proximity to water and are typically associated with maritime activities, trade, and cultural exchanges. The Hebrew word often translated as "coastland" is "אִי" (i), which can also mean "island" or "region." In the context of the ancient Near East, coastlands were significant for their strategic and economic importance. Biblical References: Coastlands are mentioned in various contexts throughout the Bible, often highlighting their role in prophecy, judgment, and the spread of God's message. One notable reference is found in the book of Isaiah, where the coastlands are called to listen to God's message: "Listen to Me in silence, O coastlands, and let the peoples gain new strength; let them come forward, then let them speak; let us come together for judgment" (Isaiah 41:1). This passage underscores the inclusion of distant lands in God's plan and the universal reach of His sovereignty. In Isaiah 42:10, the coastlands are called to join in praise: "Sing to the LORD a new song, His praise from the ends of the earth, you who go down to the sea, and all that is in it, you islands, and all who dwell in them." Here, the coastlands are depicted as part of the global chorus that acknowledges and worships the Lord, emphasizing the inclusivity of God's call to all nations. Historical and Cultural Context: In the ancient world, coastlands were often centers of commerce and cultural exchange due to their access to maritime routes. The Phoenicians, for example, were renowned seafarers and traders who inhabited the coastlands of the Mediterranean. These regions were pivotal in the dissemination of goods, ideas, and cultural practices across different civilizations. The coastlands also played a role in the geopolitical landscape of the biblical narrative. They were often the sites of conflict and conquest, as seen in the interactions between the Israelites and the Philistines, who occupied the coastal regions of Canaan. The strategic importance of these areas made them frequent subjects of prophetic declarations and divine intervention. Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, the mention of coastlands in the Bible serves to illustrate the expansive reach of God's dominion and the inclusivity of His covenant. The coastlands symbolize the farthest reaches of the known world, representing the idea that God's authority and message extend beyond the immediate context of Israel to encompass all nations and peoples. The prophetic literature often uses coastlands to convey themes of judgment and redemption. The coastlands are sometimes depicted as places awaiting God's justice, as seen in Isaiah 11:11, where the Lord promises to reclaim His people from the "islands of the sea." This imagery reinforces the notion of God's ultimate plan to restore and redeem His creation, drawing all nations to Himself. Conclusion: While the Bible does not provide exhaustive details about the specific coastlands mentioned, their inclusion in the scriptural narrative highlights their importance in God's redemptive history. The coastlands serve as a reminder of the global scope of God's mission and the call for all peoples to recognize His sovereignty and participate in His divine purposes. Strong's Hebrew 339. i -- coast, region... Word Origin from an unused word Definition coast, region NASB Word Usage coastland (4), coastlands (26), islands (6). country, isle, island. ... /hebrew/339.htm - 6k Library Concerning the Waters. Andromeda Sargon of Assyria (722-705 BC ) Thesaurus Coastland (6 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Coastland (6 Occurrences). Genesis 10:5 Of these were the islands of the nations divided in their lands ... /c/coastland.htm - 8k Island (16 Occurrences) Caphtor (4 Occurrences) Coasting (1 Occurrence) Caphtorim (3 Occurrences) Coast (70 Occurrences) Coast-land (3 Occurrences) Bethsaida (7 Occurrences) Resources Does the Bible mention the lost city of Atlantis? Is there any evidence for Atlantis? | GotQuestions.orgCoastland: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Coastland (6 Occurrences)Genesis 10:5 Isaiah 20:6 Isaiah 23:2 Isaiah 23:6 Jeremiah 25:22 Jeremiah 47:4 Subtopics Related Terms |