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Tarshish

Locations
Modern Location Likely Tartessos, in southern Spain (Andalusia), though other theories suggest Sardinia, Cyprus, or North Africa
Coordinates 37.3891, -5.9845

Geographical Setting

Tarshish was a distant maritime power and trading partner of ancient Israel, renowned for its wealth in silver, iron, tin, and lead.

What is the meaning of Tarshish in the Bible?

Tarshish denotes a distant western region or city, frequently identified with the Iberian settlement of Tartessos, serving as a major source of precious metals and exotic goods for the kingdoms of Israel and Judah.

SIGNIFICANCE

Understanding Tarshish clarifies the extent of ancient Israel's international trade networks and explains the economic basis for the wealth described in biblical narratives, such as the construction of Solomon's Temple.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Tarshish (located near modern Likely Tartessos, in southern Spain (Andalusia), though other theories suggest Sardinia, Cyprus, or North Africa) held strategic importance. Understanding its position and trade routes explains why key biblical events unfolded here.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
  • Why did the biblical author mention Tarshish in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Tarshish clarify?

Related Topics

MiddinMachpelahAsochis, Plain OfEth-KazinArarahAchzib

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.

How to Cite This Entry

"Tarshish." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/tarshish/
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