King James Version

What Does Isaiah 23:9 Mean?

“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. to stain: Heb. to pollute”

Context

Is this your joyous city, whose antiquity is of ancient days? her own feet shall carry her afar off to sojourn. afar: Heb. from afar off

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. to stain: Heb. to pollute

Pass through thy land as a river, O daughter of Tarshish: there is no more strength. strength: Heb. girdle

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. against: or, concerning a merchantman the merchant city: Heb. Canaan strong: or, strengths

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(9) **The Lord of hosts hath purposed . . .**—This is the prophet’s answer. The kings of Assyria were but instruments in the hand of Jehovah Sabaoth, working out what He had planned. **To stain the pride . . .**—The primary meaning of the verb is to pollute or desecrate, possibly in reference to the destruction of the temples of Tyre, such *e.g. *as that of Melkarth, which was reported to be one of the most ancient in the world.

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 23:9 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.