Ape
NatureWhat is the meaning of Ape in the Bible?
The Hebrew word koph, translated as ape, appears in 1 Kings 10:22 and 2 Chronicles 9:21 among the cargo of Solomon's fleet, alongside gold, silver, ivory, apes, and peacocks. Scholars generally identify koph as referring to monkeys or apes, likely sourced from the Horn of Africa or India, which demonstrates the extensive international trade networks active during the Solomonic era.
SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing that apes were part of Solomon's trade goods helps readers visualize the vast reach of ancient Near Eastern commerce and the variety of exotic animals known to biblical authors. This detail grounds the biblical account in historical economic reality, showing that the narrative reflects actual international exchanges rather than purely mythical elements.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Ape in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Ape clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.