The term "Inhabitants of the Coastland" refers to the peoples dwelling in the regions along the Mediterranean Sea, particularly those areas mentioned in the Old Testament. These coastal regions were significant in biblical narratives due to their strategic locations, trade routes, and interactions with the Israelites.

Biblical References:

1. Isaiah 11:11 · "On that day the Lord will extend His hand a second time to recover the remnant of His people from Assyria, from Egypt, from Pathros, from Cush, from Elam, from Shinar, from Hamath, and from the islands of the sea." Here, the "islands of the sea" can be understood as the coastlands, indicating regions beyond the immediate land of Israel, often associated with distant lands and peoples.

2. Isaiah 42:10 · "Sing to the LORD a new song, His praise from the ends of the earth, you who go down to the sea, and all that is in it, you islands, and all who dwell in them." This passage highlights the inclusion of the coastlands in the call to worship, emphasizing their role in the broader scope of God's creation and His plan for all nations.

3. Ezekiel 27:15 · "The men of Dedan were your merchants; many coastlands were your regular markets; they brought you ivory tusks and ebony as your payment." This verse from Ezekiel's lament over Tyre illustrates the economic interactions between the coastlands and the major trading city of Tyre, showcasing the coastlands' involvement in international commerce.

Cultural and Historical Context:

The coastlands were home to various peoples, including the Philistines, Phoenicians, and other maritime nations. These groups were known for their seafaring abilities, trade, and sometimes hostile interactions with Israel. The Philistines, for example, were a significant adversary of Israel during the time of the Judges and the early monarchy.

The Phoenicians, particularly from cities like Tyre and Sidon, were renowned for their trade networks and influence across the Mediterranean. Their interactions with Israel were complex, involving both conflict and cooperation, as seen in the alliance between King Solomon and King Hiram of Tyre (1 Kings 5:1-12).

Theological Significance:

The coastlands are often mentioned in prophetic literature, symbolizing the far reaches of the earth and the universality of God's sovereignty. The prophets frequently used the imagery of the coastlands to convey messages of judgment and hope, indicating that God's plans encompass all nations, not just Israel.

In Isaiah, the coastlands are depicted as awaiting God's law and justice (Isaiah 42:4), reflecting the prophetic vision of a time when all nations will acknowledge the God of Israel. This theme is consistent with the biblical narrative of God's redemptive plan extending to all peoples, fulfilling the promise to Abraham that "all nations on earth will be blessed through you" (Genesis 22:18).

Conclusion:

The inhabitants of the coastland play a multifaceted role in the biblical narrative, representing both the immediate neighbors of Israel and the broader Gentile world. Their inclusion in prophetic visions underscores the expansive reach of God's covenant promises and the ultimate unity of all nations under His reign.