Topical Encyclopedia Biblical Context:Ezion-Geber, a notable port city located near the northern tip of the Gulf of Aqaba, plays a significant role in the biblical narrative concerning maritime activities during the reign of King Solomon. This location is mentioned in the context of shipbuilding and trade expeditions, particularly in the books of 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles. Scriptural References: The account of shipwrecks at Ezion-Geber is primarily found in 1 Kings 22:48 and 2 Chronicles 20:35-37. These passages describe the ill-fated maritime venture during the reign of King Jehoshaphat of Judah. 1 Kings 22:48 states: "Jehoshaphat built ships of Tarshish to go to Ophir for gold, but they never set sail, because they were wrecked at Ezion-geber." 2 Chronicles 20:35-37 provides further insight: "Later, Jehoshaphat king of Judah made an alliance with Ahaziah king of Israel, who acted wickedly. They agreed to make ships to go to Tarshish, and these were built in Ezion-geber. Then Eliezer son of Dodavahu of Mareshah prophesied against Jehoshaphat, saying, 'Because you have made an alliance with Ahaziah, the LORD has destroyed your works.' So the ships were wrecked and were unable to sail to Tarshish." Historical and Theological Significance: The narrative of the shipwrecks at Ezion-Geber highlights several key themes in the biblical text, including the consequences of alliances with ungodly rulers and the sovereignty of God over human endeavors. Jehoshaphat's alliance with Ahaziah, the wicked king of Israel, is portrayed as a misstep that leads to divine disfavor. The prophet Eliezer's pronouncement underscores the belief that God actively intervenes in the affairs of nations and individuals, rewarding faithfulness and punishing disobedience. The mention of "ships of Tarshish" suggests vessels designed for long voyages, possibly intended for trade with distant lands such as Ophir, renowned for its gold. The failure of this venture serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of compromising one's values for economic or political gain. Geographical and Archaeological Insights: Ezion-Geber's strategic location made it an ideal site for shipbuilding and trade in the ancient Near East. Situated near the Red Sea, it provided access to maritime routes that connected the kingdoms of Israel and Judah with the wealth of the Arabian Peninsula and beyond. Archaeological findings in the region, including remnants of ancient harbors and shipyards, corroborate the biblical depiction of Ezion-Geber as a bustling center of commerce and industry. Lessons and Applications: The account of the shipwrecks at Ezion-Geber serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking divine guidance in all endeavors. It illustrates the potential pitfalls of forming alliances that compromise one's spiritual integrity and the necessity of aligning one's actions with God's will. The narrative encourages believers to trust in God's provision and to remain steadfast in their commitment to righteousness, even in the face of tempting opportunities for worldly success. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 22:48Jehoshaphat made ships of Tharshish to go to Ophir for gold: but they went not; for the ships were broken at Eziongeber. Nave's Topical Index 2 Chronicles 20:35-37 Library Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria Resources What are the Christian themes in The Voyage of the Dawn Treader? | GotQuestions.orgWhat happened between Paul's third and fourth missionary journeys? | GotQuestions.org Why is wisdom referred to as a she in Proverbs? | GotQuestions.org Ship: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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