The phrase "riches of the sea" refers to the wealth and abundance derived from maritime resources, including fish, trade, and other treasures found in or transported across the sea. In biblical times, the sea was a significant source of sustenance, commerce, and wealth, playing a crucial role in the economic and cultural life of ancient civilizations.

Biblical References:

1. Deuteronomy 33:19 : "They will call peoples to the mountain; there they will offer sacrifices of righteousness; for they will draw out the abundance of the seas and the hidden treasures of the sand." This verse is part of Moses' blessing to the tribes of Israel, specifically Zebulun and Issachar. It highlights the prosperity that comes from the sea, suggesting that these tribes would benefit from maritime trade and resources.

2. Isaiah 60:5 : "Then you will look and be radiant, and your heart will tremble and swell with joy, because the riches of the sea will be brought to you, and the wealth of the nations will come to you." This prophecy speaks of a future time of blessing and prosperity for Jerusalem, where the wealth of the sea and the nations will flow into the city, symbolizing divine favor and abundance.

3. Ezekiel 27:3-4 : "Say to Tyre, who is situated at the entrance of the sea, merchant of the peoples to many coasts, ‘This is what the Lord GOD says: O Tyre, you have said, “I am perfect in beauty.” Your borders are in the heart of the seas; your builders perfected your beauty." Tyre, an ancient Phoenician city, was renowned for its maritime trade and wealth. The passage underscores the city's reliance on the sea for its economic prosperity and its role as a hub of international commerce.

Cultural and Economic Significance:

In the ancient Near East, the sea was a vital source of food, particularly fish, which was a staple in the diet of many coastal communities. The Mediterranean Sea, Red Sea, and other bodies of water provided not only sustenance but also opportunities for trade and cultural exchange. Maritime trade routes connected distant lands, allowing for the exchange of goods such as spices, textiles, metals, and other valuable commodities.

The "riches of the sea" also included the hidden treasures of the deep, such as pearls and coral, which were highly prized in ancient times. These treasures were often associated with beauty and wealth, symbolizing the abundance and mystery of God's creation.

Theological Implications:

The concept of the "riches of the sea" in the Bible often serves as a metaphor for divine blessing and provision. It reflects the belief that God is the ultimate source of all wealth and prosperity, and that the bounty of the sea is a manifestation of His generosity and care for His people. The sea's riches are seen as part of the created order, entrusted to humanity for stewardship and enjoyment.

Furthermore, the imagery of the sea's wealth is used to convey the idea of God's kingdom being open to all nations, as seen in prophecies where the wealth of the seas and the nations are brought to Jerusalem. This inclusivity underscores the universal scope of God's redemptive plan and the gathering of peoples from all corners of the earth into His covenant community.