Topical Bible: The Sea: Rivers Supplied by Exhalations From

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The concept of the sea as a source of water for rivers is a topic that intertwines natural observation with theological reflection. In the biblical context, the sea is often depicted as a vast and mysterious creation of God, serving multiple purposes within the divine order. The idea that rivers are supplied by exhalations from the sea can be understood through both a natural and a spiritual lens.

Biblical References and Natural Observations

The Bible frequently references the sea as a significant part of God's creation. In Genesis 1:9-10 , God commands the waters to gather into one place, forming the seas, and this act is declared good. The cyclical nature of water, including evaporation and precipitation, is implied in various scriptural passages, though not explicitly detailed in modern scientific terms.

Ecclesiastes 1:7 states, "All the rivers flow into the sea, yet the sea is never full. To the place from which the rivers come, there they return again." This verse poetically captures the continuous cycle of water, suggesting an understanding of the natural processes that sustain life on earth. The imagery of rivers flowing into the sea and returning again can be seen as an early recognition of the hydrological cycle, where water evaporates from the sea, forms clouds, and falls as rain to replenish rivers.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the sea's role in supplying rivers underscores the providence and sovereignty of God over creation. The seamless operation of natural processes reflects God's wisdom and care in sustaining the earth. Job 38:8-11 highlights God's control over the sea: "Who enclosed the sea behind doors when it burst forth from the womb, when I made the clouds its garment and thick darkness its blanket, when I fixed its boundaries and set in place its bars and doors, and I declared: 'You may come this far, but no farther; here your proud waves must stop'?"

This passage emphasizes God's authority over the sea, reinforcing the idea that all natural phenomena, including the supply of rivers, are under His command. The sea, with its vastness and power, is a testament to God's creative might and His ability to sustain life through the intricate balance of nature.

Symbolism and Spiritual Lessons

In biblical symbolism, the sea often represents chaos and the unknown, yet it is also a source of life and sustenance. The provision of rivers through the sea's exhalations can be seen as a metaphor for God's provision and the abundance of His grace. Just as the sea supplies water to the rivers, God supplies spiritual nourishment to His people.

Isaiah 55:10-11 draws a parallel between the natural water cycle and God's word: "For just as rain and snow fall from heaven and do not return without watering the earth, making it bud and sprout, and providing seed to sow and food to eat, so My word that proceeds from My mouth will not return to Me empty, but it will accomplish what I please, and it will prosper where I send it." This passage illustrates the life-giving power of God's word, akin to the life-giving water cycle initiated by the sea.

In summary, the sea's role in supplying rivers through exhalations is a profound example of God's intricate design in creation. It serves as a reminder of His provision, sovereignty, and the spiritual truths embedded within the natural world.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Ecclesiastes 1:7
All the rivers run into the sea; yet the sea is not full; to the place from where the rivers come, thither they return again.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

On the Firmament.
... of the lamp draws to it the fuel supplied by the ... the sea from rising and flooding
the rivers; the warmth of ... and drying up which are characteristic of the sea. ...
/.../basil/basil letters and select works/homily iii on the firmament.htm

The Power of Assyria at Its Zenith; Esarhaddon and Assur-Bani-Pal
... Colossae, and Kylsenae, founded wherever exhalations of steam ... Abdimilkot attempted
to escape by sea before the ... make good the canals which supplied the place ...
/.../chapter iithe power of assyria 2.htm