Old Testament
Isaiah 23:1
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A prophecy against Tyre. Howl, you ships of Tarshish, for it is laid waste, with no house and no way to enter. It is revealed to them from the land of Kittim.
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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.
What Isaiah 23:1 means
Plain-English insight for readers
Isaiah 23:1 presents a prophecy concerning the city of Tyre, a significant trading hub in ancient times. The verse begins with a call for the ships of Tarshish, which were known for their long voyages, to mourn because Tyre has been destroyed. The destruction is so complete that there are no homes left and no way for ships to dock or enter the city. The mention of Kittim, often associated with Cyprus or the western lands, suggests that the news of Tyre's downfall has reached distant places. This prophecy serves as a warning about the consequences of pride and reliance on wealth and trade, emphasizing that even the mightiest cities can fall. Tyre's fate illustrates the transient nature of human achievements and the sovereignty of God over nations and cities.
How to apply Isaiah 23:1 to your life
This verse reminds us of the fragility of human endeavors and the importance of humility. We should not place our trust solely in material wealth or status, as these can be taken away. Instead, we should seek a deeper relationship with God, who is ultimately in control.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Isaiah
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 23:1 mean?
Isaiah 23:1 is a prophecy about the destruction of Tyre, a major trading city. It calls for the ships of Tarshish to mourn because Tyre has been laid waste, indicating that there is no longer a way for ships to enter the city.
What is the significance of Tyre in Isaiah 23:1?
Tyre was an important commercial center in ancient times, known for its wealth and trade. The prophecy highlights its downfall as a warning about the consequences of pride and reliance on material success.
What does 'ships of Tarshish' refer to in Isaiah 23:1?
The 'ships of Tarshish' refer to vessels that traveled long distances for trade, symbolizing the far-reaching impact of Tyre's destruction on global commerce.
What does 'Kittim' mean in Isaiah 23:1?
'Kittim' is often associated with Cyprus or distant lands, suggesting that the news of Tyre's downfall has reached far-off places, emphasizing the widespread consequences of its destruction.
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