The burden of Tyre. Howl, ye ships of Tarshish; for it is laid waste, so that there is no house, no entering in: from the land of Chittim it is revealed to them.
Be still, ye inhabitants of the isle; thou whom the merchants of Zidon, that pass over the sea, have replenished.
And by great waters the seed of Sihor, the harvest of the river, is her revenue; and she is a mart of nations.
Be thou ashamed, O Zidon: for the sea hath spoken, even the strength of the sea, saying, I travail not, nor bring forth children, neither do I nourish up young men, nor bring up virgins.
As at the report concerning Egypt, so shall they be sorely pained at the report of Tyre.
Pass ye over to Tarshish; howl, ye inhabitants of the isle.
Is this your joyous city, whose antiquity is of ancient days? her own feet shall carry her afar off to sojourn.
Who hath taken this counsel against Tyre, the crowning city, whose merchants are princes, whose traffickers are the honourable of the earth?
The Lord of hosts hath purposed it, to stain the pride of all glory, and to bring into contempt all the honourable of the earth.
Pass through thy land as a river, O daughter of Tarshish: there is no more strength.
He stretched out his hand over the sea, he shook the kingdoms: the Lord hath given a commandment against the merchant city, to destroy the strong holds thereof.
And he said, Thou shalt no more rejoice, O thou oppressed virgin, daughter of Zidon: arise, pass over to Chittim; there also shalt thou have no rest.
Behold the land of the Chaldeans; this people was not, till the Assyrian founded it for them that dwell in the wilderness: they set up the towers thereof, they raised up the palaces thereof; and he brought it to ruin.
Howl, ye ships of Tarshish: for your strength is laid waste.
And it shall come to pass in that day, that Tyre shall be forgotten seventy years, according to the days of one king: after the end of seventy years shall Tyre sing as an harlot.
Take an harp, go about the city, thou harlot that hast been forgotten; make sweet melody, sing many songs, that thou mayest be remembered.
And it shall come to pass after the end of seventy years, that the Lord will visit Tyre, and she shall turn to her hire, and shall commit fornication with all the kingdoms of the world upon the face of the earth.
And her merchandise and her hire shall be holiness to the Lord: it shall not be treasured nor laid up; for her merchandise shall be for them that dwell before the Lord, to eat sufficiently, and for durable clothing.
Isaiah 23 focuses on a powerful oracle against Tyre, a prominent Phoenician port city renowned for its wealth and maritime dominance in the ancient world. This chapter serves as the concluding prophecy in a series of pronouncements against nations surrounding Judah, highlighting the futility of relying on earthly powers for security and emphasizing God's sovereign control over all nations. Understanding Isaiah 23 requires us to delve into the historical context, explore its meaning, and consider its implications for both the original audience and contemporary readers.
Historical Context
Tyre, located on the Mediterranean coast north of Israel (approximately 12 miles or 19 kilometers north of the modern Israel-Lebanon border), was a major hub for international trade and shipping. Its strategic location and natural deep-water harbors made it easily accessible to vessels from across the known world. Along with Sidon, another major Phoenician seaport, Tyre amassed considerable wealth through its extensive commercial activities. The city's natural defenses, including twin islands just offshore, contributed to its reputation as a formidable and unconquerable stronghold.
During Isaiah's time, the temptation for Judah to seek alliances with these powerful neighboring nations was significant. However, Isaiah's oracles served as a warning: these nations, despite their apparent strength, were ultimately vulnerable to God's judgment. Isaiah 23 specifically demonstrates that even the great wealth and seemingly impenetrable defenses of a city like Tyre would be insufficient to shield it from divine wrath.
Breakdown of the Prophecy
The prophecy unfolds by depicting the widespread mourning and lamentation that would accompany Tyre's destruction.
Mourning at Sea (Isaiah 23:1-2): The prophecy begins with a call for the ships of Tarshish to wail, as the destruction of Tyre would devastate their trade routes and leave their home port in ruins. Sailors returning from long voyages would be met with the shocking reality of their once-thriving city reduced to rubble. The news reaches Cyprus, about 75 miles (120 kilometers) off the Phoenician coast, highlighting the vast reach of Tyre's influence and the widespread impact of its downfall.
Silence on the Coast (Isaiah 23:2-6): The inhabitants of the coast, including Sidon, are instructed to be silent and mourn the loss of their economic prosperity. Tyre's demise would cut off the flow of resources and revenue, particularly from Egypt, which supplied grain to the region. The sea itself seems to grieve, lamenting the loss of its seafaring "children." Even Tarshish, likely located in modern-day Spain, would be stunned by the destruction of this ancient and powerful city.
God's Sovereignty (Isaiah 23:8-12): Isaiah makes it clear that the destruction of Tyre is not a random event but a direct act of God. The Lord of hosts has orchestrated this judgment to humble the pride of Tyre and turn its honor into dishonor. God's hand is stretched out over the sea, demonstrating His ownership and control over all creation. The people of Sidon are told that there is no escape from God's judgment.
Remember Babylon (Isaiah 23:13-14): As evidence of God's power to bring down even the mightiest of cities, Isaiah points to the example of Babylon. This once-great city had been reduced to ruins by the Assyrians, demonstrating that no earthly power can withstand God's judgment. Tyre, too, would face a similar fate.
Restoration and Redemption (Isaiah 23:15-18): Despite the impending destruction, the prophecy also includes a glimmer of hope. Tyre would be forgotten for seventy years, a period reminiscent of the Babylonian captivity of Judah. After this time, Tyre would resume its commercial activities, engaging in trade with all the kingdoms of the earth. However, this time, a significant change would occur: Tyre's profits and wages would be dedicated to the Lord. The wealth generated by the city would ultimately be used to provide for the needs of God's people, ensuring they have ample food and sacred clothing. God can take the wealth of the wicked and use it for His purposes.
Fulfillment and Interpretation
The prophecy against Tyre saw partial fulfillment through various historical events. Some scholars believe it refers to the Assyrian attacks during Isaiah's time, while others point to the destruction of Tyre by Alexander the Great in 332 BC. Alexander the Great sieged the city and eventually destroyed it.
The seventy-year period of desolation is open to interpretation. Some suggest it relates to a period of Assyrian rule that limited Tyre's trade, while others see it as a symbolic representation of a time of humbling and repentance.
The most significant aspect of the prophecy is the eventual dedication of Tyre's wealth to the Lord. This speaks to God's ultimate plan to redeem all nations and use their resources for His glory.
Theological Implications
Isaiah 23 offers several important theological insights:
- God's Sovereignty: The prophecy underscores God's absolute sovereignty over all nations and His power to bring down even the most powerful empires.
- The Futility of Earthly Security: It warns against placing trust in wealth, military strength, or political alliances, as these are ultimately insufficient to protect against God's judgment.
- The Importance of Humility: The prophecy highlights the dangers of pride and arrogance, which invite God's displeasure.
- God's Redemptive Plan: It reveals God's ultimate plan to redeem all nations and use their resources for His kingdom purposes.
Practical Application
Isaiah 23 has practical implications for believers today:
- Examine Our Trust: We should regularly examine where we place our trust. Are we relying on wealth, power, or human relationships for security, or are we trusting in God alone?
- Cultivate Humility: We should cultivate humility and avoid the trap of pride and arrogance.
- Use Resources for God's Glory: We should use our resources, including our time, talents, and finances, to advance God's kingdom and bless others.
- Remember God's Sovereignty: We can find comfort and hope in knowing that God is in control, even when the world around us seems chaotic and uncertain.
Isaiah 23 serves as a powerful reminder that true security and lasting prosperity are found not in earthly possessions or human strength but in a relationship with the sovereign God, who desires to use all things for His glory and the good of His people.
The burden of Tyre. Howl, ye ships of Tarshish; for it is laid waste, so that there is no house, no entering in: from the land of Chittim it is revealed to them.
Be still, ye inhabitants of the isle; thou whom the merchants of Zidon, that pass over the sea, have replenished.
And by great waters the seed of Sihor, the harvest of the river, is her revenue; and she is a mart of nations.
Be thou ashamed, O Zidon: for the sea hath spoken, even the strength of the sea, saying, I travail not, nor bring forth children, neither do I nourish up young men, nor bring up virgins.
As at the report concerning Egypt, so shall they be sorely pained at the report of Tyre.
Pass ye over to Tarshish; howl, ye inhabitants of the isle.
Is this your joyous city, whose antiquity is of ancient days? her own feet shall carry her afar off to sojourn.
Who hath taken this counsel against Tyre, the crowning city, whose merchants are princes, whose traffickers are the honourable of the earth?
The Lord of hosts hath purposed it, to stain the pride of all glory, and to bring into contempt all the honourable of the earth.
Pass through thy land as a river, O daughter of Tarshish: there is no more strength.
He stretched out his hand over the sea, he shook the kingdoms: the Lord hath given a commandment against the merchant city, to destroy the strong holds thereof.
And he said, Thou shalt no more rejoice, O thou oppressed virgin, daughter of Zidon: arise, pass over to Chittim; there also shalt thou have no rest.
Behold the land of the Chaldeans; this people was not, till the Assyrian founded it for them that dwell in the wilderness: they set up the towers thereof, they raised up the palaces thereof; and he brought it to ruin.
Howl, ye ships of Tarshish: for your strength is laid waste.
And it shall come to pass in that day, that Tyre shall be forgotten seventy years, according to the days of one king: after the end of seventy years shall Tyre sing as an harlot.
Take an harp, go about the city, thou harlot that hast been forgotten; make sweet melody, sing many songs, that thou mayest be remembered.
And it shall come to pass after the end of seventy years, that the Lord will visit Tyre, and she shall turn to her hire, and shall commit fornication with all the kingdoms of the world upon the face of the earth.
And her merchandise and her hire shall be holiness to the Lord: it shall not be treasured nor laid up; for her merchandise shall be for them that dwell before the Lord, to eat sufficiently, and for durable clothing.
Isaiah 23 focuses on a powerful oracle against Tyre, a prominent Phoenician port city renowned for its wealth and maritime dominance in the ancient world. This chapter serves as the concluding prophecy in a series of pronouncements against nations surrounding Judah, highlighting the futility of relying on earthly powers for security and emphasizing God's sovereign control over all nations. Understanding Isaiah 23 requires us to delve into the historical context, explore its meaning, and consider its implications for both the original audience and contemporary readers.
Historical Context
Tyre, located on the Mediterranean coast north of Israel (approximately 12 miles or 19 kilometers north of the modern Israel-Lebanon border), was a major hub for international trade and shipping. Its strategic location and natural deep-water harbors made it easily accessible to vessels from across the known world. Along with Sidon, another major Phoenician seaport, Tyre amassed considerable wealth through its extensive commercial activities. The city's natural defenses, including twin islands just offshore, contributed to its reputation as a formidable and unconquerable stronghold.
During Isaiah's time, the temptation for Judah to seek alliances with these powerful neighboring nations was significant. However, Isaiah's oracles served as a warning: these nations, despite their apparent strength, were ultimately vulnerable to God's judgment. Isaiah 23 specifically demonstrates that even the great wealth and seemingly impenetrable defenses of a city like Tyre would be insufficient to shield it from divine wrath.
Breakdown of the Prophecy
The prophecy unfolds by depicting the widespread mourning and lamentation that would accompany Tyre's destruction.
Mourning at Sea (Isaiah 23:1-2): The prophecy begins with a call for the ships of Tarshish to wail, as the destruction of Tyre would devastate their trade routes and leave their home port in ruins. Sailors returning from long voyages would be met with the shocking reality of their once-thriving city reduced to rubble. The news reaches Cyprus, about 75 miles (120 kilometers) off the Phoenician coast, highlighting the vast reach of Tyre's influence and the widespread impact of its downfall.
Silence on the Coast (Isaiah 23:2-6): The inhabitants of the coast, including Sidon, are instructed to be silent and mourn the loss of their economic prosperity. Tyre's demise would cut off the flow of resources and revenue, particularly from Egypt, which supplied grain to the region. The sea itself seems to grieve, lamenting the loss of its seafaring "children." Even Tarshish, likely located in modern-day Spain, would be stunned by the destruction of this ancient and powerful city.
God's Sovereignty (Isaiah 23:8-12): Isaiah makes it clear that the destruction of Tyre is not a random event but a direct act of God. The Lord of hosts has orchestrated this judgment to humble the pride of Tyre and turn its honor into dishonor. God's hand is stretched out over the sea, demonstrating His ownership and control over all creation. The people of Sidon are told that there is no escape from God's judgment.
Remember Babylon (Isaiah 23:13-14): As evidence of God's power to bring down even the mightiest of cities, Isaiah points to the example of Babylon. This once-great city had been reduced to ruins by the Assyrians, demonstrating that no earthly power can withstand God's judgment. Tyre, too, would face a similar fate.
Restoration and Redemption (Isaiah 23:15-18): Despite the impending destruction, the prophecy also includes a glimmer of hope. Tyre would be forgotten for seventy years, a period reminiscent of the Babylonian captivity of Judah. After this time, Tyre would resume its commercial activities, engaging in trade with all the kingdoms of the earth. However, this time, a significant change would occur: Tyre's profits and wages would be dedicated to the Lord. The wealth generated by the city would ultimately be used to provide for the needs of God's people, ensuring they have ample food and sacred clothing. God can take the wealth of the wicked and use it for His purposes.
Fulfillment and Interpretation
The prophecy against Tyre saw partial fulfillment through various historical events. Some scholars believe it refers to the Assyrian attacks during Isaiah's time, while others point to the destruction of Tyre by Alexander the Great in 332 BC. Alexander the Great sieged the city and eventually destroyed it.
The seventy-year period of desolation is open to interpretation. Some suggest it relates to a period of Assyrian rule that limited Tyre's trade, while others see it as a symbolic representation of a time of humbling and repentance.
The most significant aspect of the prophecy is the eventual dedication of Tyre's wealth to the Lord. This speaks to God's ultimate plan to redeem all nations and use their resources for His glory.
Theological Implications
Isaiah 23 offers several important theological insights:
- God's Sovereignty: The prophecy underscores God's absolute sovereignty over all nations and His power to bring down even the most powerful empires.
- The Futility of Earthly Security: It warns against placing trust in wealth, military strength, or political alliances, as these are ultimately insufficient to protect against God's judgment.
- The Importance of Humility: The prophecy highlights the dangers of pride and arrogance, which invite God's displeasure.
- God's Redemptive Plan: It reveals God's ultimate plan to redeem all nations and use their resources for His kingdom purposes.
Practical Application
Isaiah 23 has practical implications for believers today:
- Examine Our Trust: We should regularly examine where we place our trust. Are we relying on wealth, power, or human relationships for security, or are we trusting in God alone?
- Cultivate Humility: We should cultivate humility and avoid the trap of pride and arrogance.
- Use Resources for God's Glory: We should use our resources, including our time, talents, and finances, to advance God's kingdom and bless others.
- Remember God's Sovereignty: We can find comfort and hope in knowing that God is in control, even when the world around us seems chaotic and uncertain.
Isaiah 23 serves as a powerful reminder that true security and lasting prosperity are found not in earthly possessions or human strength but in a relationship with the sovereign God, who desires to use all things for His glory and the good of His people.