Topical Encyclopedia The term "Tarshish-ship" refers to a class of large, sea-going vessels mentioned in the Bible, particularly in the context of trade and exploration. These ships are associated with the ancient city or region of Tarshish, which is often identified with a distant maritime location known for its wealth and resources. The exact location of Tarshish remains a subject of debate among scholars, with suggestions ranging from the western Mediterranean region, such as Spain, to locations in the eastern Mediterranean or even beyond.Biblical References The Bible frequently mentions Tarshish-ships in the context of trade and commerce. In 1 Kings 10:22, we read about King Solomon's fleet: "For the king had the ships of Tarshish at sea with the ships of Hiram. Once every three years, the ships of Tarshish would arrive bearing gold, silver, ivory, apes, and peacocks." This passage highlights the wealth and exotic goods that these ships brought back, underscoring the extensive trade networks of the ancient Near East. Similarly, in 2 Chronicles 9:21, the text reiterates the role of these ships in Solomon's era: "For the king’s ships went to Tarshish with the servants of Huram. Every three years they would return, bringing gold, silver, ivory, apes, and peacocks." These references suggest that Tarshish-ships were involved in long voyages, possibly indicating advanced shipbuilding techniques and navigational skills. The prophet Isaiah also mentions Tarshish-ships in a prophetic context. In Isaiah 2:16, the ships are part of a list of objects of human pride that will be humbled: "against every ship of Tarshish, and against every stately vessel." This indicates that these ships were not only significant in commerce but also symbolized human achievement and pride. Jonah and the Tarshish-ship One of the most well-known biblical narratives involving a Tarshish-ship is the account of Jonah. In Jonah 1:3, the prophet attempts to flee from God's command by boarding a ship bound for Tarshish: "But Jonah got up to flee to Tarshish 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 account illustrates the use of Tarshish-ships for long-distance travel and the perceived remoteness of Tarshish as a destination. Symbolism and Interpretation In biblical literature, Tarshish-ships often symbolize wealth, trade, and human endeavor. They represent the far-reaching influence and connections of ancient Israel and its neighbors. The frequent mention of these ships in the context of judgment, as seen in Isaiah and Ezekiel, also suggests a critique of reliance on material wealth and human pride. Ezekiel 27:25-26 describes the ships of Tarshish as part of the lament over the fall of Tyre: "The ships of Tarshish carried your merchandise. You were filled with heavy cargo in the heart of the sea. Your oarsmen brought you onto the high seas, but the east wind shattered you in the heart of the sea." This passage underscores the vulnerability of human enterprises to divine judgment. Conclusion The Tarshish-ship serves as a powerful symbol in the biblical narrative, representing both the economic prosperity and the spiritual challenges of ancient Israel and its neighbors. Through these ships, the Bible conveys themes of human ambition, divine sovereignty, and the ultimate futility of relying solely on material wealth. Library Tarshish or Nineveh? Thesaurus Tarshish-ship (1 Occurrence)Tarshish-ship. Tarshish-fleet, Tarshish-ship. Tarshish-ships . Multi-Version Concordance Tarshish-ship (1 Occurrence). ... /t/tarshish-ship.htm - 6k Tarshish-fleet (1 Occurrence) Tarshish-ships (3 Occurrences) Representative (10 Occurrences) Resources Why did Jonah try to go to Tarshish instead of Nineveh? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Jonah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is the sign of Jonah? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Tarshish-ship (1 Occurrence)1 Kings 22:48 Subtopics Related Terms |
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