The term "Great Sea" in the Bible refers to the Mediterranean Sea, which is a significant geographical landmark in the biblical narrative. It is mentioned numerous times throughout the Scriptures and serves as a boundary marker for the land of Israel and its tribes. The Great Sea is a vital part of the ancient Near Eastern world, influencing trade, travel, and cultural exchange.

Biblical References:

1. Boundary of the Promised Land: The Great Sea is often described as the western boundary of the land promised to the Israelites. In Numbers 34:6, the Lord instructs Moses regarding the borders of the land: "Your western border will be the coastline of the Great Sea; this will be your boundary on the west." Similarly, in Joshua 1:4, God delineates the extent of the land given to the Israelites: "Your territory shall extend from the wilderness and Lebanon to the great river, the Euphrates—all the land of the Hittites—and westward to the Great Sea."

2. Tribal Allotments: The Great Sea also serves as a boundary for specific tribal allotments within Israel. For instance, in Joshua 15:12, the western border of the tribe of Judah is described: "The western border was the coastline of the Great Sea. These are the boundaries around the clans of the descendants of Judah."

3. Prophetic Visions and Symbolism: The Great Sea appears in prophetic visions and symbolic language. In Ezekiel 47:10, the prophet describes a vision of the river flowing from the temple, bringing life to the Dead Sea, and mentions fishermen standing along the shore from En Gedi to En Eglaim, with the Great Sea as a point of reference: "It will be a place for the spreading of nets, and its fish will be of many kinds, like the fish of the Great Sea."

4. Historical and Cultural Context: The Great Sea was a crucial part of the ancient world, serving as a major route for trade and cultural exchange. The Phoenicians, known for their seafaring skills, navigated its waters, and the sea facilitated interactions between various peoples and empires, including the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans.

5. New Testament Context: While the term "Great Sea" is primarily an Old Testament reference, the Mediterranean Sea continues to play a role in the New Testament. The Apostle Paul undertook several missionary journeys across the Mediterranean, spreading the Gospel to various regions. In Acts 27, Paul's voyage to Rome includes a perilous journey across the Mediterranean, highlighting the sea's continued importance in the biblical narrative.

The Great Sea, therefore, is not only a geographical feature but also a significant element in the unfolding account of God's people, marking boundaries, influencing events, and symbolizing the vastness of God's creation and the reach of His promises.