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◄ Sea of Joppa►

Topical Encyclopedia

The Sea of Joppa, while not explicitly named as such in the Bible, refers to the coastal waters adjacent to the ancient city of Joppa (modern-day Jaffa, part of Tel Aviv, Israel). Joppa is one of the oldest port cities in the world and holds significant historical and biblical importance. It is situated on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, serving as a crucial maritime hub in ancient times.

Biblical References:

1.Jonah's Flight: One of the most notable biblical events associated with Joppa is the account of the prophet Jonah. InJonah 1:3 , it is recorded, "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 highlights Joppa's role as a significant port from which Jonah attempted to escape God's command.

2.Solomon's Temple: Joppa also played a role in the construction of Solomon's Temple. In2 Chronicles 2:16 , it is mentioned, "We will cut logs from Lebanon as much as you need and float them to you on rafts by sea to Joppa. Then you can take them up to Jerusalem." This indicates that Joppa was the receiving port for the timber used in building the temple, emphasizing its importance in trade and transportation.

3.Peter's Vision: The New Testament also references Joppa in the account of Peter's vision. InActs 10:5-6 , an angel instructs Cornelius, "Now send men to Joppa to call for a man named Simon who is called Peter. He is staying with Simon the tanner, whose house is by the sea." This event, which took place in Joppa, was pivotal in the early Christian church as it led to the inclusion of Gentiles in the Christian faith.

Historical and Cultural Context:

Joppa's strategic location on the Mediterranean coast made it a vital link between the sea and the inland regions of Israel. It served as a gateway for trade and cultural exchange, facilitating the movement of goods, people, and ideas. The city's port was essential for importing materials, such as the cedars of Lebanon, which were crucial for various construction projects, including the building of the temple in Jerusalem.

Throughout history, Joppa has been under the control of various empires and civilizations, including the Egyptians, Canaanites, Israelites, Philistines, Greeks, Romans, and others. Each of these cultures left its mark on the city, contributing to its rich and diverse heritage.

Archaeological Significance:

Archaeological excavations in Joppa have uncovered evidence of its long history as a port city. Findings include ancient fortifications, harbor installations, and artifacts that reflect the city's role in trade and commerce. These discoveries provide valuable insights into the daily life and economic activities of the people who lived in and passed through Joppa over the centuries.

Theological Implications:

The Sea of Joppa, as referenced in biblical narratives, serves as a backdrop for significant theological themes. Jonah's attempt to flee from God's presence underscores the futility of trying to escape divine will, while Peter's vision in Joppa marks a turning point in the early church's understanding of God's inclusive plan for salvation. These accounts highlight themes of obedience, repentance, and the universality of God's message.

In summary, while the term "Sea of Joppa" is not directly mentioned in the Bible, the coastal waters of Joppa are integral to several key biblical events. The city's historical and theological significance continues to be a subject of interest for scholars and believers alike.

International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

Sea of Joppa

SEA OF JOPPA

SeeMEDITERRANEAN SEA.

Library

A Description of theSea-Coast, Out of Pliny and Strabo.
... For when he callsJoppa, "Joppa of the Phoenicians,""he does not concludeJoppa
within Phoenicia; but because thesea, washing upon that shore of Palestine...

HowJoppa was Taken, and Tiberias Delivered Up.
... Now as those people ofJoppa were floating about in thissea, in the morning there
fell a violent wind upon them; it is called by those that sail there "the...

How Antiochus, who was Called Dionysus, and after Him Aretas Made...
... So Alexander, out of fear of his coming, dug a deep ditch, beginning at Chabarzaba,
which is now called Antipatris, to thesea ofJoppa, on which part only his...

Antipatris. Caphar Salama.
... fearing his" [Antiochus Dionysius] "coming, digs a deep trench, beginning at Capharzaba,
which is now called Antipatris, unto thesea ofJoppa, a hundred and...

Altar and Temple
... to the carpenters; and meat, and drink, and oil, unto them of Zidon, and to them
of Tyre, to bring cedar trees from Lebanon to thesea ofJoppa, according to...

Travelling in Palestine --Roads, Inns, Hospitality, Custom-House...
... A third road led from Jerusalem, by Beth-horon and Lydda, toJoppa, whence
it continued close by thesea-shore to Caesarea. This...

The Story of Jonah.
... hear about their wickedness. So Jonah ran away to thesea shore and took
a ship fromJoppa to go to Tarshish. He had not gone far...

The Story of the Angel by the Altar
... In the south was Hebron among the mountains; on the shore of the GreatSea were
Gaza, andJoppa, and Caesarea; in the middle of the land were Shechem and...

Jonah the Narrow-Minded Patriot
... He went down toJoppa and found a ship going to Tarshish.... But Jehovah made a furious
wind blow over thesea, and there was such a great storm that the ship was...

The Foundation of the Church among the Heathen
... Peter's journey, the course of God's good Providence led him to thesea-port town
ofJoppa, on the borders of Samaria and Judaea, and there we read that "he...