Isaiah 23:5 (KJV)

What does Isaiah 23:5 mean?

Isaiah 23:5 says that just as people were troubled when they heard bad news about Egypt, they will also be deeply distressed when they hear about Tyre’s downfall. The verse highlights how the reputation and fate of Tyre will cause alarm far beyond its own borders.

In this passage, the prophet Isaiah is speaking about the coming judgment on Tyre, a wealthy and influential port city. The “report” refers to news of Tyre’s destruction, which will spread to other nations. The verse draws a comparison to Egypt, suggesting that Tyre’s fall will be just as shocking and painful to hear about as Egypt’s troubles were, showing how interconnected and concerned the surrounding nations were about each other’s fortunes.

The Hebrew behind Isaiah 23:5

• “Report” (שְׁמוּעָה, shemu‘ah) means news or a message. Here, it emphasizes how the mere hearing of Tyre’s fate will cause distress, showing the city’s importance.
• “Egypt” (מִצְרַיִם, Mitsrayim) is mentioned as a reference point, suggesting that Egypt’s past troubles were well-known and had a similar impact on listeners.
• “Pained” (חִיל, chiyl) often means to tremble or writhe in pain, not just mild concern. This word choice shows that the reaction to Tyre’s downfall is intense and deeply felt.
• “Tyre” (צֹר, Tsor) is the city being judged. Its mention here underlines that Tyre’s fate is significant enough to affect distant peoples.

Why Isaiah 23:5 matters

• This verse shows how the fate of a major city like Tyre could unsettle entire regions, emphasizing the interconnectedness of ancient nations through trade and alliances.
• It clarifies that the judgment on Tyre is not just a local event but one with wide-reaching emotional and political effects, similar to the impact of Egypt’s troubles.
• The verse prepares the reader for the broader theme in Isaiah 23: the fall of proud and powerful cities as part of God’s larger plan, setting the stage for the rest of the chapter’s warnings and lament.