King James Version
What Does Isaiah 23:14 Mean?
“Howl, ye ships of Tarshish: for your strength is laid waste.”
Context
12
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.
13
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.
14
Howl, ye ships of Tarshish: for your strength is laid waste.
15
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. shall Tyre: Heb. it shall be unto Tyre as the song of an harlot
16
Take an harp, go about the city, thou harlot that hast been forgotten; make sweet melody, sing many songs, that thou mayest be remembered.
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(14) **Howl, ye ships of Tarshish: for your Strength is laid waste.**—The prophecy of woe ends as it began in Isaiah 23:1. The “strength” is the *fortress *of Tyre.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Isaiah. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Isaiah 23:14 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Isaiah 23:14
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge