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.
ISAIAH 23:17KJVWhat does Isaiah 23:17 mean?
Isaiah 23:17 says that after seventy years, God will again take notice of the city of Tyre, allowing it to return to its commercial activities and dealings with many nations, described here in strong terms as "committing fornication" with all the kingdoms of the world. This verse uses vivid language to show Tyre resuming its old trade practices, which are portrayed as morally questionable.
The prophet Isaiah is speaking to the people of Israel, describing what will happen to the powerful trading city of Tyre after a period of decline or judgment lasting seventy years. The verse uses the imagery of prostitution to highlight how Tyre’s international trade was seen as unfaithful or corrupt, emphasizing the city’s reputation for seeking profit through alliances and commerce with many nations.
The Hebrew behind Isaiah 23:17
- "visit" (פָּקַד, pāqad): This word often means to attend to, intervene, or take action. Here, it suggests that the LORD (יְהוָה, YHWH) will actively turn His attention back to Tyre after a set period, signaling a change in its fortunes.
- "hire" (אֶתְנַן, ’etnan): This word refers to wages or payment, often with a negative or immoral connotation, such as the payment to a prostitute. In this context, it underlines the idea that Tyre’s wealth from trade was viewed as tainted or dishonorable.
- "fornication" (זָנָה, zānāh): This term literally means to engage in prostitution or unfaithfulness. Isaiah uses it figuratively to describe Tyre’s commercial dealings as acts of unfaithfulness, reinforcing the negative view of its international trade.
Why Isaiah 23:17 matters
- This verse clarifies that Tyre’s return to prosperity after seventy years is not a restoration to moral greatness, but rather a resumption of its old, self-serving ways.
- The strong language about "fornication" helps readers see how the prophets often used vivid metaphors to criticize nations for their alliances and economic practices, not just their religious behavior.
- Isaiah 23:17 connects to the wider chapter by showing that God’s judgment on Tyre was not permanent, but its return would not necessarily mean a change of heart or character.