Question
Hi Gramps,
My husband and I were reading in Ether about the Barges and how they had 2 problems: the light and the other being that they would run out of air. I understand how they would know about the light problem, but I don’t know how they would have known about the air. The types of homes and materials that they used at that time would not have been airtight, so where would this knowledge come from?
Amber
Answer
Amber,
The construction of the Jaredites’ barges is described in Ether 2:16-17, where the Lord commands the brother of Jared to build them “after the manner of barges which ye have hitherto built.” This implies that the Jaredites had prior experience with barge construction, likely for shorter journeys across lakes or rivers. The first set of barges, used to cross “many waters,” may not have required the same airtight design as those intended for the ocean crossing, which was a much longer and more perilous journey.
The barges were described as being “small” and “light upon the water,” with a length comparable to that of a tree (Ether 2:17). The emphasis on their tightness suggests that they were designed to withstand the pressures of the ocean, which would be essential for survival during the tumultuous journey. The phrase “tight like unto a dish” indicates that the vessels were constructed to hold water, preventing leaks and ensuring the safety of their occupants.
One of the most pressing concerns for the Jaredites was the air supply issue. Ether 2:20 reveals that the Lord instructed the brother of Jared to make holes in the top and bottom of the barges. These holes served a dual purpose: they allowed for air to enter when the barges were submerged and could be sealed to prevent water from entering during storms. This ingenious design highlights the divine guidance the brother of Jared received, as he recognized the limitations of human ingenuity in solving such critical problems.
The need for ventilation was paramount, especially considering that the journey across the ocean lasted nearly a year. The brother of Jared’s prayer for light and air demonstrates his understanding of the challenges ahead. The Lord’s response, which included the provision of “luminous stones,” further illustrates the miraculous nature of their journey and the divine assistance they received (Ether 3:1).
The journey across the “great deep” was fraught with challenges. Ether 2:24 describes the Jaredites as being “as a whale in the midst of the sea,” emphasizing the ferocity of the storms they encountered. The Lord warned them that they would face “mountain waves” and “furious winds,” necessitating the construction of vessels that could withstand such conditions. The design of the barges, being both airtight and buoyant, was crucial for their survival in these tumultuous waters.
The lack of light within the barges posed another significant challenge. Ether 2:23 mentions that the Lord asked the brother of Jared what provisions should be made for light during their journey. This highlights the importance of divine guidance in overcoming obstacles that seemed insurmountable. The luminous stones provided a miraculous solution, allowing the Jaredites to navigate and care for their needs even in the darkest conditions.
The journey of the Jaredites is not merely a historical account; it is rich with spiritual symbolism. The challenges they faced can be seen as metaphors for the trials and tribulations of life. Just as the Jaredites relied on divine guidance to navigate the great deep, individuals today are encouraged to seek spiritual guidance in their own journeys. The need for light in darkness serves as a reminder of the importance of faith and revelation in overcoming life’s challenges.
Related articles:
Why did the Jaredites need to be taught how to build their ships?
What does “tight like unto a dish” mean in reference to barges built by the Brother of Jared?
Gramps
