Topical Encyclopedia In the Bible, ships are mentioned as significant means of transportation, trade, and warfare. They are often depicted in the context of ancient maritime activities, reflecting the importance of seafaring in biblical times. The construction, use, and symbolism of ships provide insight into the economic, cultural, and spiritual life of the biblical world.Old Testament References 1. Trade and Commerce: Ships were vital for trade, particularly for the Israelites and their neighbors. The Bible mentions the ships of Tarshish, which were large merchant vessels used for long voyages. In Isaiah 23:1, the prophet laments, "Wail, O ships of Tarshish, for Tyre is destroyed, without house or harbor." These ships were instrumental in the trade of goods such as metals, spices, and other commodities. 2. Solomon's Fleet: King Solomon is noted for his naval endeavors. In 1 Kings 9:26-28, it is recorded that Solomon built a fleet of ships at Ezion-geber, near Eloth on the shore of the Red Sea. "And Hiram sent his servants, men who knew the sea, to serve in the fleet with Solomon’s servants." This fleet was used to bring gold from Ophir, highlighting the wealth and reach of Solomon's kingdom. 3. Symbolism and Prophecy: Ships are also used symbolically in the prophetic literature. Ezekiel 27 describes the fall of Tyre, likening the city to a majestic ship that is ultimately wrecked. This imagery underscores the themes of pride and downfall. New Testament References 1. Jesus and the Disciples: Ships play a role in the ministry of Jesus and His disciples. The Sea of Galilee, a hub of fishing activity, is where Jesus called several of His disciples, who were fishermen by trade. In Matthew 4:21-22, Jesus calls James and John, who were in a boat with their father Zebedee, mending their nets. 2. Miracles and Teachings: Jesus performed miracles involving ships, such as calming the storm in Mark 4:39: "Then He got up and rebuked the wind and the sea. 'Silence!' He commanded. 'Be still!' And the wind died down, and it was perfectly calm." This event demonstrated His authority over nature and provided a powerful lesson in faith for His disciples. 3. Paul's Journeys: The Apostle Paul undertook several missionary journeys by ship, as recorded in the Acts of the Apostles. His voyage to Rome, detailed in Acts 27, includes a dramatic shipwreck. Despite the peril, Paul reassures the crew in Acts 27:22, "But now I urge you to keep up your courage, because not one of you will be lost; only the ship will be destroyed." This account highlights themes of divine providence and faith amidst adversity. Cultural and Historical Context Ships in biblical times were primarily constructed from wood and powered by sails and oars. The design and size varied depending on their purpose, whether for fishing, trade, or military use. The Mediterranean Sea, Red Sea, and the Sea of Galilee were significant bodies of water for these activities. The mention of ships in the Bible reflects the interconnectedness of ancient civilizations through maritime trade and the spread of ideas and cultures. Ships facilitated the movement of people and goods, contributing to the economic and cultural exchanges that shaped the biblical world. Spiritual Significance In a spiritual context, ships can symbolize the journey of faith, the church as a vessel of salvation, and the protection and guidance of God through life's storms. The imagery of ships navigating turbulent waters serves as a metaphor for the believer's reliance on divine guidance and providence. Greek 1117. gomos -- a ship's freight, cargo ... a ship's freight, cargo. Part of Speech: Noun, Masculine Transliteration: gomos Phonetic Spelling: (gom'-os) Short Definition: a cargo, freight Definition: a ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1117.htm - 6k 501. antleo -- to bail out, draw water 4143. ploion -- a boat Library Paul's Shipwreck Affecting Incident at Sea. Tempest and Trust The Voyage and Shipwreck Death of Martha Yeardley, and John Yeardley's Journey to Norway. Acts XXVII Concerning the Passion of Christ, and Its Old Testament ... The Office of the Instructor. Essay iii. Si Partem Tacuisse Velim, Quodeumque Relinquam, Majus ... His Journey to South Russia. Thesaurus Ship's (5 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Ship's (5 Occurrences). ... Acts 27:19 On the third day, they threw out the ship's tackle with their own hands. (WEB WEY NAS NIV). ... /s/ship's.htm - 7k Log (12 Occurrences) Foul (41 Occurrences) Entry (36 Occurrences) Shipwreck (3 Occurrences) Boats (11 Occurrences) Ships (46 Occurrences) Navigation (2 Occurrences) Overboard (5 Occurrences) Large (235 Occurrences) Resources Was Jonah truly swallowed by a whale? | GotQuestions.orgIs joking a sin? What does the Bible say about telling jokes? | GotQuestions.org Who was Jonah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Ship's (5 Occurrences)Acts 27:16 Acts 27:19 Acts 27:30 Acts 27:32 Jonah 1:6 Subtopics Related Terms |
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