Topical Bible: Ivory: Exported from Tarshish

◄ Ivory: Exported from Tarshish ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Ivory, a precious material highly valued in ancient times, is frequently mentioned in the Bible as a symbol of wealth, luxury, and opulence. It is derived from the tusks of elephants and was used extensively in the crafting of ornate objects, furniture, and decorations. The biblical references to ivory highlight its significance in trade and its association with the grandeur of ancient kingdoms.

Biblical References and Significance

Ivory is mentioned in several passages throughout the Bible, often in the context of trade and wealth. One of the key references to ivory is found in the book of Ezekiel, where it is listed among the luxurious goods imported by the city of Tyre. Ezekiel 27:15 states, "The men of Dedan were your merchants; many coastlands were your market; they brought you ivory tusks and ebony as your payment." This passage underscores the value of ivory as a traded commodity and its role in the economic prosperity of ancient cities.

The mention of ivory in connection with Tarshish further emphasizes its importance in ancient trade networks. Tarshish, often identified with a distant maritime location, possibly in the western Mediterranean, was known for its wealth and extensive trade. In 1 Kings 10:22 , we read about King Solomon's fleet: "For the king had the ships of Tarshish at sea with the fleet of Hiram. Once every three years, the ships of Tarshish would arrive bearing gold, silver, ivory, apes, and peacocks." This passage highlights the exotic and luxurious nature of the goods imported from Tarshish, with ivory being a notable item among them.

Symbolism and Use in Ancient Israel

In addition to its economic value, ivory held symbolic significance in ancient Israel. It was often associated with royal splendor and divine blessing. The construction of Solomon's throne, described in 1 Kings 10:18 , illustrates this association: "Then the king made a great throne of ivory and overlaid it with pure gold." The use of ivory in the throne's construction signifies the wealth and majesty of Solomon's reign, reflecting the prosperity granted by God.

Ivory was also used in the decoration of palaces and homes, as seen in the description of Ahab's palace in Samaria. In 1 Kings 22:39 , it is noted, "As for the rest of the acts of Ahab, along with all his accomplishments, the ivory house he built, and all the cities he fortified, are they not written in the Book of the Chronicles of the Kings of Israel?" The reference to an "ivory house" suggests a structure adorned with ivory, indicating the luxurious lifestyle of the Israelite monarchy.

Cultural and Historical Context

The use of ivory in ancient times was not limited to Israel. It was a prized material across various cultures in the Near East and Mediterranean regions. The Phoenicians, renowned for their craftsmanship and trade, were instrumental in the distribution of ivory throughout the ancient world. Their extensive trade networks facilitated the movement of ivory from Africa and Asia to the markets of the Mediterranean, including those of Israel and Judah.

The biblical portrayal of ivory as a luxury item reflects the broader cultural and historical context of the ancient Near East, where wealth and status were often displayed through the possession of rare and exotic materials. The trade of ivory, along with other precious goods, contributed to the economic and cultural exchanges that shaped the ancient world.

Conclusion

The biblical references to ivory, particularly its export from Tarshish, provide insight into the economic and cultural dynamics of the ancient world. As a symbol of wealth and luxury, ivory played a significant role in the trade networks and artistic expressions of ancient Israel and its neighboring cultures. Through its association with royal splendor and divine blessing, ivory remains a testament to the opulence and grandeur of biblical times.

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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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2 Chronicles 9:21
For the king's ships went to Tarshish with the servants of Huram: every three years once came the ships of Tarshish bringing gold, and silver, ivory, and apes, and peacocks.
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