of
the Pearl fisheries of the Persian Gulf is given by the Greek
historian, Isidorus of Charace, in his description of the Parthian
empire.
Palestine, &c.
There
can be but little doubt that the ancient Hebrews valued Pearls, and
used them for ornamental purposes. Probably they obtained them by
commerce with the neighbouring nations, especially the Phœnicians. Yet
it is notable that the Hebrew word, gabish, translated " Pearl " in our English version, occurs only once in the Old Testament. "No mention shall be made of coral, or of Pearls, for
the price of wisdom is above rubies," (Job xxviii., 18). Even here it
is highly probable that the word rendered as Pearl really applies to
rock-crystal, or some other substance than Pearl.
The
Talmud contains many references to Pearls, and we may quote one legend
showing that at that time there was but one object in nature worthy to
be ranked higher than Pearls.
On
approaching Egypt, the patriarch Abraham, aware of the fascinating
beauty of his wife, Sarah, hid her in a chest, that none might behold
her charms. But when he was come to the place of paying custom, the
officer said " Pay custom," and he answered, " I will pay thee custom."
Then they
