Isaiah 23:15 Meaning and Explanation
“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.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Tyre will be forgotten for seventy years, then resume her trade like a harlot.
The Context of Isaiah 23:15
Prophecy of temporary judgment followed by recovery, but with moral degradation.
What Does Isaiah 23:15 Mean?
A shift occurs: after temporary judgment, Tyre will be forgotten for a fixed period—seventy years, roughly corresponding to one king's reign. After this time, she will recover and return to her merchant ways, resuming her trading as if nothing has changed.
However, the comparison to a harlot is significant. Tyre's recovery is presented as morally compromised—her trade, once dignified commerce, is now associated with harlotry. Her restoration does not restore her former honor; instead, she will pursue gain without shame or restraint.
Frequently Asked Questions About Isaiah 23:15
What does Isaiah 23:15 mean?
Tyre will be forgotten for seventy years, then resume her trade like a harlot.
What is the context of Isaiah 23:15?
Prophecy of temporary judgment followed by recovery, but with moral degradation.