Topical Bible: Commerce: Articles of Apes

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In the context of biblical commerce, the mention of "apes" is found in the narrative of King Solomon's extensive trade network. The reference to apes as articles of commerce is located in the Old Testament, specifically in the account of Solomon's wealth and the grandeur of his kingdom. The relevant scripture is found in 1 Kings 10:22 and 2 Chronicles 9:21.

1 Kings 10:22 states: "For the king had the ships of Tarshish that went with the servants of Hiram. Once every three years, the ships of Tarshish would arrive bearing gold, silver, ivory, apes, and peacocks."

Similarly, 2 Chronicles 9:21 records: "For the king’s ships went to Tarshish with the servants of Huram. Once every three years, they would return, bringing gold, silver, ivory, apes, and peacocks."

These passages highlight the exotic and luxurious nature of the goods that were imported into Israel during Solomon's reign. The inclusion of apes among the items such as gold, silver, and ivory suggests that they were considered valuable and perhaps served as a symbol of wealth and status. The mention of apes, alongside other exotic animals like peacocks, indicates the breadth of Solomon's trade connections and the opulence of his court.

The ships of Tarshish, mentioned in these passages, were part of a fleet that engaged in long-distance trade. Tarshish is often associated with a distant and wealthy region, possibly located in the western Mediterranean, such as modern-day Spain. The voyages that took place every three years suggest a well-organized and extensive trading operation, capable of bringing back rare and valuable commodities.

The presence of apes in the list of imported goods raises questions about their specific use or purpose in Solomon's kingdom. While the Bible does not provide explicit details, it is possible that apes were kept as exotic pets or used for entertainment in the royal court. Their inclusion in the list of imports underscores the diversity and richness of the goods that were available to Solomon, reflecting the prosperity and international connections of his reign.

From a theological perspective, the mention of apes and other luxurious items in Solomon's trade network serves to illustrate the fulfillment of God's promise to bless Solomon with unparalleled wisdom and wealth (1 Kings 3:13). It also highlights the splendor of Solomon's kingdom, which foreshadows the ultimate glory and prosperity of God's eternal kingdom.

In summary, the articles of apes in biblical commerce represent the wealth and international trade connections of King Solomon's reign. They serve as a testament to the opulence of his kingdom and the fulfillment of divine promises, while also providing insight into the cultural and economic exchanges of the ancient world.

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1 Kings 10:22
For the king had at sea a navy of Tharshish with the navy of Hiram: once in three years came the navy of Tharshish, bringing gold, and silver, ivory, and apes, and peacocks.
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The City of Benares.
... They produce articles which command a large and profitable sale. ... While in population
and commerce there are cities in ... oriels, to which the sacred apes clung by ...
/.../life and work in benares and kumaon 1839-1877/chapter vii the city of.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... Gaza enjoyed among them a kind of hegemony, alike on account of its strategic position
and its favourable situation for commerce, but this supremacy was of ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm