The Mediterranean Sea, often referred to as the "Great Sea" in biblical texts, holds significant geographical and historical importance in the narrative of the Bible. This vast body of water forms the western boundary of the land of Israel and serves as a backdrop for numerous biblical events and prophecies.

Geographical Significance

The Mediterranean Sea is the largest inland sea connected to the Atlantic Ocean, bordered by Europe to the north, Asia to the east, and Africa to the south. In biblical times, it was a crucial route for trade and cultural exchange, influencing the civilizations that arose along its shores. The Israelites, though not traditionally a seafaring people, were nonetheless impacted by the sea's presence, as it defined the western limits of the Promised Land.

Biblical References

The term "Great Sea" is used in several passages to describe the Mediterranean. In Numbers 34:6, the Lord outlines the borders of the land promised to the Israelites: "Your western border will be the coastline of the Great Sea; this will be your boundary on the west." This demarcation underscores the sea's role as a natural boundary for the tribes of Israel.

In Ezekiel 47:10, the prophet envisions a time of restoration and abundance, where fishermen will stand along the shore of the Great Sea: "Fishermen will stand by it from En Gedi to En Eglaim, casting their nets; the fish will be of many kinds, like the fish of the Great Sea." This imagery highlights the sea's potential for providing sustenance and prosperity.

Historical Context

Throughout the Old Testament, the Mediterranean Sea is a stage for various historical events. The Phoenicians, known for their maritime prowess, inhabited the coastal regions and engaged in trade across the Mediterranean, influencing the economic and cultural landscape of the ancient Near East. The Philistines, another seafaring people, settled along the southern coast of Canaan, often clashing with the Israelites.

In the New Testament, the Mediterranean Sea becomes a conduit for the spread of the Gospel. The Apostle Paul undertakes several missionary journeys across the sea, as recorded in the Acts of the Apostles. His travels to cities such as Ephesus, Corinth, and Rome illustrate the sea's role in facilitating the early Christian mission.

Prophetic and Symbolic Elements

The Mediterranean Sea also appears in prophetic literature, symbolizing both judgment and blessing. In Daniel 7:2-3, the prophet describes a vision of four great beasts emerging from the sea, representing empires that will rise and fall. This imagery conveys the sea as a source of chaos and power, reflecting the tumultuous nature of human history.

Conversely, the sea is a symbol of divine provision and peace. In Psalm 107:23-24, those who "go down to the sea in ships" witness the "works of the Lord and His wonders in the deep." This passage celebrates God's sovereignty over creation and His ability to bring calm to the stormy seas.

Cultural and Theological Impact

The Mediterranean Sea's presence in Scripture underscores the interconnectedness of the biblical world with the broader ancient Mediterranean context. It serves as a reminder of the cultural exchanges and divine interventions that shaped the history of God's people. The sea's vastness and mystery continue to evoke awe and reverence, symbolizing both the challenges and the opportunities faced by the faithful throughout the ages.Numbers 34:6
And as for the western border, you shall even have the great sea for a border: this shall be your west border.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Deuteronomy 11:24
Every place where on the soles of your feet shall tread shall be yours: from the wilderness and Lebanon, from the river, the river Euphrates, even to the uttermost sea shall your coast be.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Deuteronomy 34:2
And all Naphtali, and the land of Ephraim, and Manasseh, and all the land of Judah, to the utmost sea,
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Zechariah 14:8
And it shall be in that day, that living waters shall go out from Jerusalem; half of them toward the former sea, and half of them toward the hinder sea: in summer and in winter shall it be.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Creation of Moving Creatures.
... fate of those who navigate the high seas without a ... Master, I marvel how the fishes
live in the sea. ... that genuine work of his before mentioned, speaks clearly ...
/.../basil/basil letters and select works/homily vii the creation of.htm

The Prophet Joel.
... hot southern country"the Arabian desert"is first mentioned; then, the ... Do land armies
ever perish in the sea, and, moreover, in two different seas? ...
/.../hengstenberg/christology of the old testament/the prophet joel.htm

The Bible
... make a noise like the noise of the seas," are being ... On land and sea men are silently,
ceaselessly preparing for ... the name of God is not once mentioned; but it ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/haldeman/christ christianity and the bible/the bible.htm

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