Bible Geography · Southern Europe, North Africa, Western Asia · c. 2000 BC – Present
Mediterranean Sea
Description
The Mediterranean Sea spans about 2.5 million square kilometers and is bordered by three continents. Known in the Bible as the 'Great Sea' or the 'Western Sea,' it formed the western boundary of the Promised Land and served as the primary trade route of the ancient world. It appears throughout both Testaments as a backdrop for travel, commerce, and mission.
Significance
The Mediterranean enabled the spread of the gospel throughout the Roman Empire, as Paul and other missionaries sailed its waters to bring the message of Christ to Europe, Asia Minor, and North Africa. Jonah's flight toward Tarshish also illustrates that one cannot flee God's call across any sea.
Key Events
Jonah boarded a ship at Joppa sailing to Tarshish across the Mediterranean (Jonah 1:3). Paul's three missionary journeys and his voyage to Rome all crossed its waters (Acts 27). The Phoenicians of Tyre sailed it to provide cedar wood for Solomon's Temple (1 Kings 5:9).
Modern Context
Today the Mediterranean remains one of the world's busiest shipping regions, bordered by 21 countries. It is a popular tourist destination and a site of significant ongoing archaeological discovery. The sea also features in contemporary migration crises as people cross it seeking refuge in Europe.