Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: Trading, in the biblical context, refers to the exchange of goods, services, or commodities between individuals or groups. This practice is as ancient as human civilization itself and is frequently mentioned in the Bible, reflecting its significance in the economic and social life of biblical times. Old Testament References: The Old Testament provides numerous instances of trading, illustrating its role in the ancient Near Eastern economy. One of the earliest mentions is found in Genesis, where Joseph is sold by his brothers to Midianite traders (Genesis 37:28: "So when the Midianite merchants came by, his brothers pulled Joseph out of the pit and sold him for twenty shekels of silver to the Ishmaelites, who took him to Egypt."). This passage highlights the existence of trade routes and the movement of goods and people across regions. The book of Ezekiel provides a detailed account of the trading activities of Tyre, a prominent Phoenician city known for its commerce and wealth. Ezekiel 27:12-13 states, "Tarshish was your trading partner because of your abundant wealth of every kind; they exchanged silver, iron, tin, and lead for your merchandise. Javan, Tubal, and Meshech were your merchants; they exchanged slaves and bronze articles for your wares." This passage underscores the extensive trade networks and the variety of goods exchanged. New Testament References: In the New Testament, trading is often used metaphorically in Jesus' parables. The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30) illustrates the importance of using one's resources wisely. The master commends the servants who traded with their talents and gained more, saying, "Well done, good and faithful servant!" (Matthew 25:21). This parable emphasizes stewardship and the responsible use of God-given gifts. The account of Jesus cleansing the temple (Matthew 21:12-13) also touches on trading: "Jesus entered the temple courts and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those selling doves." This act was a denunciation of the commercialization of sacred spaces, highlighting the potential moral pitfalls associated with trading. Moral and Ethical Considerations: The Bible provides guidance on the ethical conduct of trading. Honesty and fairness are paramount, as seen in Leviticus 19:35-36 : "You must not use dishonest measures of length, weight, or volume. You shall maintain just balances, just weights, a just ephah, and a just hin." This command underscores the importance of integrity in business dealings. Proverbs also offers wisdom on trading, warning against deceit and greed. Proverbs 11:1 states, "Dishonest scales are an abomination to the LORD, but an accurate weight is His delight." This highlights the divine expectation for fairness and honesty in trade. Cultural and Historical Insights: Trading in biblical times was not only an economic activity but also a means of cultural exchange. The movement of goods facilitated the spread of ideas, technologies, and cultural practices. The extensive trade networks connected various civilizations, contributing to the cultural and economic development of the ancient world. Conclusion: While the Bible acknowledges the necessity and benefits of trading, it also emphasizes the importance of conducting trade with integrity and fairness. The biblical perspective on trading serves as a timeless reminder of the ethical responsibilities that accompany economic activities. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Trade.2. (a.) Carrying on trade or commerce; engaged in trade; as, a trading company. 3. (a.) Frequented by traders. 4. (a.) Venal; corrupt; jobbing; as, a trading politician. Greek 1281. diapragmateuomai -- to examine thoroughly, to gain by ... ... to examine thoroughly, to gain by trading. Part of Speech: Verb Transliteration: diapragmateuomai Phonetic Spelling: (dee-ap-rag-mat-yoo'-om-ahee) Short ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1281.htm - 7k 1712. emporion -- a trading place 1711. emporia -- commerce, business, trade. 2770. kerdaino -- to gain Strong's Hebrew 7484. Ramah -- "trembling," son of Cush, also a trading people... Ramah or Rama. 7485 . "trembling," son of Cush, also a trading people. Transliteration: Ramah or Rama Phonetic Spelling: (rah-maw') Short Definition: Raamah. ... /hebrew/7484.htm - 6k 8545. temurah -- exchange, recompense 4627. maarab -- articles of exchange, merchandise 7402. rakal -- probably to go about Library The Trading Servants Unsound Spiritual Trading Whether, in Trading, it is Lawful to Sell a Thing at a Higher ... The Rewards of the Trading Servants Goes to Housekeeping. Discussions with Mr. Maddox. Attends Meeting ... Expositions Of Holy Scripture Preparation for Advent Profit and Loss Contents Epistle Xlvii. To Dominicus, Bishop. Thesaurus Trading (24 Occurrences)... & vb. n.) of Trade. 2. (a.) Carrying on trade or commerce; engaged in trade; as, a trading company. ... 4. (a.) Venal; corrupt; jobbing; as, a trading politician. ... /t/trading.htm - 13k Trading-ships (1 Occurrence) Merchandise (34 Occurrences) Commerce (3 Occurrences) Overturning (14 Occurrences) Yields (21 Occurrences) Lycia (1 Occurrence) Returns (27 Occurrences) Mart (2 Occurrences) Marketplace (8 Occurrences) Resources Who were the Sabeans? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a pulpit? | GotQuestions.org What should be the focus of Christians on Thanksgiving? | GotQuestions.org Trading: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Trading (24 Occurrences)Matthew 21:12 Mark 11:15 Luke 17:28 Luke 19:15 Luke 19:45 John 2:14 John 2:16 Leviticus 25:14 1 Kings 10:22 1 Kings 22:48 2 Chronicles 9:21 2 Chronicles 20:36 Nehemiah 13:16 Job 20:18 Proverbs 3:14 Proverbs 31:18 Jeremiah 32:15 Jeremiah 32:43 Ezekiel 16:29 Ezekiel 27:9 Ezekiel 28:5 Ezekiel 28:16 Ezekiel 28:18 Amos 8:5 Subtopics Related Terms |
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