sea” (Ps 139:8–9), physical escape would be impossible. But Jonah was well aware that there were plenty of other prophets around. His day was a golden age for prophets. Is it not possible that he said to himself, “God has determined to give Assyria a chance. But if so, at least one of the other prophets ought to mediate his word. For me to do it goes against all I’ve stood for. If I withdraw from my people and exile myself in distant parts, surely God will appoint another prophet. Surely he’ll prefer