Topical Encyclopedia Sea-land, in the context of biblical literature, refers to regions or territories that are characterized by their proximity to large bodies of water, such as seas or oceans. The Bible often uses the imagery of the sea to convey various theological and symbolic meanings, and the lands adjacent to these waters hold significant historical and spiritual importance.Biblical References and Symbolism The Bible frequently mentions seas and the lands surrounding them, often using them as symbols of chaos, mystery, and divine power. In Genesis 1:10 , God gathers the waters and calls them "Seas," establishing the foundational order of creation. The sea is depicted as a boundary set by God, as seen in Job 38:8-11 , where God commands the sea to stay within its limits. The sea also serves as a metaphor for the nations and peoples of the world. In Isaiah 17:12 , the tumult of many peoples is likened to the roaring of the seas, illustrating the restless and unpredictable nature of human affairs. Similarly, Revelation 17:15 interprets the waters as "peoples and multitudes and nations and tongues," emphasizing the diversity and vastness of humanity. Historical and Geographical Context In the ancient Near East, sea-lands were crucial for trade, travel, and cultural exchange. The Mediterranean Sea, known as the "Great Sea" in biblical times, bordered several significant biblical lands, including Israel, Phoenicia, and Philistia. The Philistines, often mentioned in the Old Testament, inhabited the coastal region of Canaan, which was strategically important due to its access to the sea. The Sea of Galilee, another prominent body of water, is central to the New Testament narrative. Jesus conducted much of His ministry around this sea, performing miracles such as calming the storm (Mark 4:39) and walking on water (Matthew 14:25). These events underscore His authority over nature and His divine identity. Theological Implications The sea and its surrounding lands are often depicted as places of testing and revelation. Jonah's flight from God leads him to the sea, where he is swallowed by a great fish (Jonah 1:15-17), symbolizing God's sovereignty and mercy. Similarly, the Apostle Paul's shipwreck on the island of Malta (Acts 27:39-44) demonstrates God's providence and the spread of the Gospel to the Gentiles. In eschatological visions, the sea represents the final defeat of chaos and evil. Revelation 21:1 describes a new heaven and a new earth, where "the sea was no more," signifying the ultimate restoration and peace in God's kingdom. Cultural and Spiritual Significance Sea-lands in the Bible are not only geographical locations but also carry deep spiritual meanings. They remind believers of God's creative power, His control over the natural world, and His ability to bring order out of chaos. The sea's vastness and mystery reflect the infinite nature of God, while the lands adjacent to it serve as stages for His redemptive work throughout history. In summary, sea-land in the biblical context is rich with symbolism and significance, illustrating God's interaction with His creation and His unfolding plan of salvation. Library The Best Introduction to this Production Will be the Following ... Index of First Lines Thesaurus Sea-land (5 Occurrences)Sea-land. Seal, Sea-land. Sea-lands . Multi-Version Concordance Sea-land (5 Occurrences). Isaiah 23:2 Send out a cry ... /s/sea-land.htm - 7k Babylonia (17 Occurrences) Sea-lands (24 Occurrences) Trader (7 Occurrences) Traders (31 Occurrences) Enriched (13 Occurrences) Representatives (26 Occurrences) Helpers (17 Occurrences) Destroying (64 Occurrences) Seal (47 Occurrences) Resources What is the importance of the Dead Sea in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWere fish and sea creatures also destroyed during the Flood (Genesis 6-8)? | GotQuestions.org Did the Israelites in the book of Exodus cross the Red Sea or the Reed Sea? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Sea-land (5 Occurrences)Isaiah 23:2 Isaiah 23:6 Jeremiah 47:4 Jeremiah 47:7 Ezekiel 25:16 Subtopics Related Terms |