Old Testament
Isaiah 23:12
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, God speaks to the city of Sidon, which is personified as a virgin daughter.
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
He said, "You will never celebrate again, you crushed virgin daughter of Sidon. Get up and flee to Kittim — but even there you will find no rest."
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.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God speaks to the city of Sidon, which is personified as a virgin daughter. The message is one of despair, indicating that Sidon will no longer experience joy or celebration due to impending judgment. The call to flee to Kittim (often associated with Cyprus) suggests that even in seeking refuge, Sidon will find no peace or rest. This reflects the consequences of sin and the inevitability of divine judgment. The imagery of a crushed virgin daughter emphasizes the vulnerability and devastation that Sidon will face. The verse serves as a warning about the futility of seeking safety in worldly places when one is under divine judgment. It highlights the seriousness of turning away from God and the resulting consequences that follow.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Isaiah 23:12 to your life
This verse reminds us that turning away from God can lead to dire consequences. It encourages us to seek true refuge in God rather than in worldly places. We should reflect on our lives and ensure we are aligned with God's will to avoid similar despair.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 23:12 mean for Sidon?
Isaiah 23:12 conveys a message of impending judgment for Sidon, personified as a crushed virgin daughter. The verse indicates that Sidon will no longer experience joy or celebration due to its sins. The call to flee to Kittim suggests that even in seeking refuge, Sidon will find no peace, highlighting the futility of escaping divine judgment.
Why is Sidon referred to as a 'virgin daughter'?
In Isaiah 23:12, Sidon is referred to as a 'virgin daughter' to emphasize its vulnerability and innocence. This imagery reflects the city's former status and beauty, which will be lost due to impending judgment. It underscores the devastation that will come as a result of turning away from God.
What is the significance of Kittim in this verse?
Kittim, often associated with Cyprus, represents a place of refuge that ultimately offers no safety for Sidon. The mention of fleeing to Kittim illustrates the idea that worldly places cannot provide true peace or rest when one is under divine judgment. It serves as a warning against seeking security outside of God's will.
How does Isaiah 23:12 relate to the theme of divine judgment?
Isaiah 23:12 is a clear illustration of divine judgment, showing that Sidon's sins have led to its downfall. The verse emphasizes that turning away from God results in loss of joy and security. It serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of sin and the importance of remaining aligned with God's will.
The Book of Isaiah
Isaiah 41: Fear Not, I Am With You
The LORD calls the nations to keep silence before him and to renew their strength. He asks who raises up the righteous man from the east and gives nations before him, making him rule over kings. He says he gives them as dust to his sword and as driven stubble to his bow, and he declares he is the first and with the last.
Unlock the full Isaiah summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Isaiah — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 66 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Isaiah summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.