The term "Coastlands" in the Bible often refers to distant lands or regions situated along the sea. These areas are frequently mentioned in the prophetic and poetic books of the Old Testament, symbolizing the far reaches of the known world and the diverse peoples inhabiting them. The Hebrew word often translated as "coastlands" is "אִי" (i), which can also mean "islands" or "distant lands."

Biblical References:

1. Isaiah's Prophecies:
The Book of Isaiah contains several references to the coastlands, emphasizing their role in God's plan for the nations. Isaiah 42:4 states, "He will not grow weak or discouraged until He has established justice on the earth. In His law the coastlands will put their hope." This passage highlights the expectation that even the distant coastlands will recognize and hope in God's justice.

Isaiah 49:1 further calls the coastlands to attention: "Listen to Me, O coastlands, and pay attention, you peoples from afar. The LORD called Me from the womb; from the body of My mother He named Me." Here, the coastlands are personified as witnesses to God's calling and purpose for His servant, indicating their inclusion in the divine narrative.

2. Ezekiel's Oracles:
The prophet Ezekiel also speaks of the coastlands in the context of judgment and restoration. In Ezekiel 27:15 , the coastlands are mentioned in a lament over Tyre: "The men of Dedan were your clients; many coastlands were your market; they paid you with ivory tusks and ebony." This illustrates the economic interactions between Tyre and the distant coastlands, underscoring their significance in trade and commerce.

3. Psalms and the Universal Reign of God:
The Psalms celebrate the universal reign of God, with the coastlands often depicted as part of the created order that acknowledges His sovereignty. Psalm 97:1 declares, "The LORD reigns, let the earth rejoice; let the distant shores be glad." This verse invites the coastlands to join in the global rejoicing over God's kingship.

Theological Significance:

In the biblical narrative, the coastlands represent the farthest reaches of the earth, symbolizing the universality of God's dominion and the inclusivity of His salvation. The prophetic vision often extends beyond Israel to encompass all nations, including those in the remote coastlands, indicating that God's redemptive plan is not limited to a single people but is intended for all humanity.

The coastlands also serve as a metaphor for the spread of the Gospel and the fulfillment of the Great Commission. As the message of Christ's salvation reaches the ends of the earth, the coastlands are seen as part of the prophetic fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that all nations would be blessed through his descendants (Genesis 12:3).

Cultural and Historical Context:

In the ancient Near Eastern context, the coastlands were regions accessible by sea, often associated with maritime trade and cultural exchange. They were home to various peoples and cultures, contributing to the rich tapestry of interactions in the biblical world. The mention of coastlands in biblical texts reflects the geographical understanding of the time and the recognition of a world beyond the immediate borders of Israel.

Overall, the coastlands in the Bible symbolize the expansive reach of God's authority and the inclusivity of His covenant promises, inviting all peoples, near and far, to participate in His divine plan.