Does anyone know why Jonah would think that he could flee from the presence of the Lord in the first place and why did he choose Tarshish, just because it was so far away? Did he actually think that he could put a distance between him and the Lord? Anyone have insight? I would love to hear it.

From my recovery Bible – some insight below

Jonah knew he was the problem and knew that if he would just jump from the boat it would calm the storm for these people. Yet he didn’t. This can be likened to having to kick a family member out of the home because they are toxic to you. You obviously would like to try a different route, sometimes losing everything you worked for (livelihood), hints the cargo – and then at last to save yourself you throw out this toxic person.