The term "Western Sea" is a biblical designation often understood to refer to the Mediterranean Sea. This body of water holds significant geographical and historical importance in the biblical narrative, serving as a boundary and a point of reference for the land of Israel.

Biblical References:

1. Geographical Boundary:
The Western Sea is frequently mentioned as a boundary marker for the Promised Land. In the book of Numbers, God outlines the borders of the land that the Israelites are to inherit: "Your western border will be the coastline of the Great Sea; this will be your boundary on the west" (Numbers 34:6). This establishes the Mediterranean Sea as the western limit of the land allotted to the tribes of Israel.

2. Prophetic Imagery:
The Western Sea is also used in prophetic literature to convey messages of judgment and restoration. In the book of Joel, the prophet speaks of a time when God will drive the northern army into a parched and desolate land, with its "vanguard into the Eastern Sea and its rear guard into the Western Sea" (Joel 2:20). This imagery underscores the comprehensive nature of God's intervention and the cleansing of the land from foreign threats.

3. Symbol of Abundance and Trade:
The Mediterranean Sea was a crucial route for trade and cultural exchange in the ancient world. The prosperity and wealth of nations often depended on their access to this sea. In the context of Israel, the Western Sea provided a gateway for commerce and interaction with other civilizations, contributing to the economic and cultural development of the region.

4. Historical Context:
Throughout biblical history, the Western Sea served as a backdrop for various events and narratives. The Philistines, a significant adversary of Israel, inhabited the coastal regions along the Mediterranean. Their presence and interactions with the Israelites are documented in several biblical accounts, highlighting the strategic importance of the Western Sea in military and political affairs.

5. Eschatological Significance:
In eschatological passages, the Western Sea is sometimes associated with the ultimate restoration and peace that God promises to His people. The prophet Zechariah speaks of a future time when living waters will flow out from Jerusalem, "half of them toward the Eastern Sea and the other half toward the Western Sea" (Zechariah 14:8). This vision symbolizes the renewal and blessing that will emanate from God's presence, reaching the entirety of the land.

Cultural and Theological Implications:

The Western Sea, as the Mediterranean, represents more than just a geographical feature; it embodies the interaction between God's chosen people and the surrounding nations. It serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over creation and His ability to use natural boundaries to define and protect His people. The sea's role in prophecy and eschatology further emphasizes the hope of restoration and divine intervention in the affairs of humanity.

In summary, the Western Sea is a multifaceted symbol within the biblical narrative, reflecting themes of boundary, judgment, prosperity, and ultimate restoration. Its presence in Scripture underscores the interconnectedness of geography, history, and theology in the unfolding account of God's relationship with His people.