Old Testament
Jonah 1:3
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But Jonah got up to flee to Tarshish, away from the presence of the LORD. He went down to Joppa, found a ship going to Tarshish, paid the fare, and boarded it to go with them to Tarshish, away from the presence of the LORD.
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But Jonah rose up to flee unto Tarshish from the presence of the LORD, and went down to Joppa; and he found a ship going to Tarshish: so he paid the fare thereof, and went down into it, to go with them unto Tarshish from the presence of the LORD.
What Jonah 1:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Jonah 1:3, we see Jonah's decision to flee from God's command. Instead of going to Nineveh, where God wanted him to preach, Jonah chose to escape to Tarshish, a distant city. This act of fleeing symbolizes his desire to avoid God's presence and mission. He traveled to Joppa, a port city, where he found a ship heading to Tarshish. Jonah paid for his passage and boarded the ship, fully intending to escape from what God had asked of him. This passage highlights Jonah's initial rebellion against God's will and sets the stage for the challenges he will face as a result of his disobedience. It serves as a reminder that trying to run away from God’s plans can lead to unforeseen consequences, as Jonah will soon discover. The repetition of 'Tarshish' emphasizes his determination to distance himself from God, illustrating the lengths to which people might go to avoid their responsibilities or divine calling.
How to apply Jonah 1:3 to your life
When faced with difficult tasks or divine calls, we may be tempted to flee like Jonah. Instead of running away, we should confront our fears and trust in God's plan. Embracing our responsibilities can lead to growth and fulfillment.
Curated for this public verse page. Jonah Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jonah's story: Jonah Runs from the LORD (Jonah 1:1–3)
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Jonah
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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At a Glance — the Book of Jonah
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Jonah
- Written
- Around 760 BC
- Genre
- Prophetic narrative
- Original Audience
- Israelites and Gentile nations
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jonah 1:3 mean?
Jonah 1:3 describes Jonah's decision to flee from God's command to go to Nineveh. Instead, he chooses to escape to Tarshish, symbolizing his desire to avoid God's presence and mission.
Why did Jonah flee to Tarshish in Jonah 1:3?
Jonah fled to Tarshish because he wanted to avoid the task God had given him, which was to preach to the people of Nineveh. His journey to Tarshish represents his rebellion against God's will.
What is the significance of Joppa in Jonah 1:3?
Joppa is significant in Jonah 1:3 as it is the port city where Jonah found a ship to Tarshish. It marks the beginning of his attempt to escape from God's command.
What does 'away from the presence of the LORD' mean in Jonah 1:3?
'Away from the presence of the LORD' indicates Jonah's intention to distance himself from God and His guidance. It reflects his desire to avoid the responsibilities that come with following God's will.
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