Reevaluating the Role of Phoenicians and the King of Tyre in the Construction of King Solomons Temple and possibly Mulek's Journey to Ancient Lands
The argument against the involvement of Phoenicians in transporting Mulek from the Land of Israel to Zarahemla, based on their religious practices, overlooks significant historical and cultural complexities. The involvement of the King of Tyre, a key Phoenician leader, in the construction of King Solomon’s Temple, demonstrates the deep and cooperative relationship between Israel and Phoenicia, which challenges the notion that Israel would have shunned Phoenician sailors for religious reasons.
1. The King of Tyre’s Crucial Role in Building Solomon’s Temple: King Hiram of Tyre played an indispensable role in the construction of the First Temple in Jerusalem, a project initiated by King Solomon. According to the biblical accounts in 1 Kings 5 and 2 Chronicles 2, Hiram provided not only the finest materials, such as cedar and cypress wood from the forests of Lebanon, but also sent skilled craftsmen and artisans to assist in the construction. Hiram’s contribution was so significant that without the resources and expertise of Tyre, the construction of the Temple as envisioned by Solomon might not have been possible.
The partnership between Solomon and Hiram was based on mutual respect and shared objectives. Hiram, described as "ever a lover of David" (1 Kings 5:1), continued this alliance with Solomon, demonstrating the strong ties between Israel and Tyre. This collaboration was not merely transactional; it was a deep and enduring relationship that transcended religious differences. The Phoenicians, under Hiram’s leadership, were recognized for their unparalleled skills in construction, woodworking, and metalwork, making them essential partners in one of Israel's most sacred projects.
2. The Practicality of Alliances Over Religious Differences: The argument that Mulek’s party would have avoided Phoenician sailors due to their religious practices overlooks the pragmatic nature of ancient alliances. The Israelites, including Solomon, were willing to work closely with the Phoenicians, despite their different religious practices, because of the benefits these relationships brought. The construction of the Temple, a project of immense religious and cultural significance for Israel, was entrusted to a great extent to the Phoenicians, indicating that practical considerations often outweighed religious differences in these contexts.
3. The Interconnected Identities of Phoenicians and Israelites: Isabel Hill Elder’s article on Joseph of Arimathea sheds light on the complex identity of the Phoenicians, many of whom were actually Israelites, particularly from the Tribe of Asher. After the Israelites conquered the Phoenician territories under Joshua, these areas were settled by Israelite tribes, yet they continued to be known as Phoenicia. This blending of identities led to the Israelites in these regions being referred to as Phoenicians. As such, the skilled sailors and craftsmen who aided Solomon, and who could have facilitated Mulek’s voyage, may have been Israelites themselves, further blurring the lines between these two groups.
4. Phoenician Expertise in Maritime Ventures: The Phoenicians, under the leadership of kings like Hiram, were the ancient world’s foremost seafaring people. Their ships and navigational skills were unparalleled, making them the most likely candidates for any long-distance sea voyage, such as the hypothetical journey of Mulek to the Americas. The close cooperation between Israel and Tyre, evidenced by the construction of the Temple, suggests that Israel would have trusted Phoenician sailors with such a crucial mission.
5. The Legacy of the Phoenicia Ship and Maritime Achievements: The restoration of the Phoenicia ship is not about glorifying the religious practices of the ancient Phoenicians but rather about recognizing their technological and navigational achievements. The Atlantic voyage by Captain Philip Beale and his crew demonstrates that transatlantic journeys aboard Phoenician ships were not only possible but could also be accomplished using the technology available in 600 B.C. The ship symbolizes the maritime expertise that was crucial not only for trade and exploration but also for transporting materials for the construction of monumental projects like Solomon’s Temple. The relationship between Israel and Tyre, exemplified by the construction of the Temple, supports the idea that the Phoenicians were respected partners and trusted allies in significant undertakings, including potential transoceanic voyages.
Conclusion: The involvement of the King of Tyre in the construction of King Solomon’s Temple highlights the strong and cooperative relationship between Israel and Phoenicia, challenging the notion that Mulek’s party would have avoided Phoenician sailors due to religious differences. The Phoenicians, known for their unmatched maritime skills and their integral role in Israel’s most sacred project, were also recognized for assisting their allies in times of distress, such as during Nebuchadnezzar's siege against Zedekiah’s Israel. Think, would you rather take passage from allie to refuge or taken captive by a conquerer. This makes them the most likely facilitators of Mulek’s journey. The restoration of the Phoenicia ship honors this ancient maritime heritage, celebrating the shared history and achievements of the Israelites and Phoenicians in the ancient world.
