Ship-boards, in the context of the Bible, refer to the planks or timbers used in the construction of ships. Ships and maritime activities are mentioned throughout the Scriptures, reflecting the importance of sea travel and trade in the ancient world. The use of ship-boards is implicit in these references, as they were essential components in the building of vessels used for various purposes, including trade, transportation, and military endeavors.

Biblical References:

1. Construction and Trade:
The construction of ships is notably mentioned in the context of trade and commerce. In Ezekiel 27, the prophet describes the city of Tyre as a majestic ship, highlighting its extensive trade network. The passage metaphorically illustrates Tyre's wealth and influence, with references to the materials used in shipbuilding: "They made all your planks of juniper from Senir; they took a cedar from Lebanon to make a mast for you" (Ezekiel 27:5). This indicates the use of high-quality timber, such as cedar, in ship construction, emphasizing the craftsmanship and resources involved.

2. Noah's Ark:
While not a ship in the traditional sense, Noah's Ark is a significant biblical vessel constructed according to God's instructions. Genesis 6:14 states, "Make for yourself an ark of gopher wood; make rooms in the ark and coat it with pitch inside and out" . The ark's construction involved the use of specific wood and waterproofing techniques, akin to shipbuilding practices, to ensure its durability and functionality during the flood.

3. Jonah's Voyage:
The account of Jonah provides insight into maritime travel and the use of ships for long-distance journeys. Jonah 1:3 recounts, "But Jonah got up to flee to Tarshish, away from the presence of the LORD. He went down to Joppa and found a ship bound for Tarshish. So he paid the fare and went aboard to sail for Tarshish, away from the presence of the LORD" . This passage illustrates the availability and use of ships for travel across the Mediterranean Sea.

4. Paul's Journeys:
The New Testament also records the use of ships in the missionary journeys of the Apostle Paul. Acts 27 provides a detailed account of Paul's voyage to Rome, including the shipwreck he experienced. The narrative describes the ship's construction and the measures taken to secure it during a storm: "After hoisting it up, they used ropes to undergird the ship. And fearing they would run aground on the sandbars of Syrtis, they lowered the sea anchor and were driven along" (Acts 27:17). This account highlights the practical aspects of ship maintenance and navigation in ancient times.

Symbolism and Metaphor:

Ships and ship-boards also carry symbolic meaning in the Bible. They often represent human endeavors, the journey of life, and the church itself as a vessel navigating the seas of the world. The imagery of a ship can convey themes of trust, faith, and reliance on God's guidance through the storms of life.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In the ancient Near East, shipbuilding was a sophisticated craft, requiring skilled labor and quality materials. The availability of timber, such as cedar from Lebanon, was crucial for constructing durable and seaworthy vessels. Maritime trade routes connected various regions, facilitating the exchange of goods, culture, and ideas. The biblical references to ships and ship-boards reflect this historical context, underscoring the significance of maritime activities in the economic and social life of the time.Ship-boards (1 Occurrence)

Ezekiel 27:5
They have made all thy ship-boards of fir-trees of Senir: they have taken cedars from Lebanon to make masts for thee.
(WBS)

Ship-boards (1 Occurrence)
Ship-boards. Ship, Ship-boards. Shiphi . Multi-Version Concordance
Ship-boards (1 Occurrence). Ezekiel 27:5 They have ...
/s/ship-boards.htm - 6k

Masts (1 Occurrence)
... Masts (1 Occurrence). Ezekiel 27:5 They have made all thy shipboards of fir trees
of Senir: they have taken cedars from Lebanon to make masts for thee. ...
/m/masts.htm - 6k

Shiphi (1 Occurrence)

/s/shiphi.htm - 7k

Cedars (37 Occurrences)
... Ezekiel 27:5 They have made all thy shipboards of fir trees of Senir: they have
taken cedars from Lebanon to make masts for thee. (KJV JPS BBE DBY WBS YLT). ...
/c/cedars.htm - 18k

Boards (50 Occurrences)
... Ezekiel 27:5 They have made all thy shipboards of fir trees of Senir: they have
taken cedars from Lebanon to make masts for thee. (KJV BBE DBY WBS). ...
/b/boards.htm - 21k

Ship (122 Occurrences)

/s/ship.htm - 36k

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