Isaiah 23:4 Meaning and Explanation
“Be thou ashamed, O Zidon: for the sea hath spoken, even the strength of the sea, saying, I travail not, nor bring forth children, neither do I nourish up young men, nor bring up virgins.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The sea itself is portrayed as barren, unable to sustain life like Tyre did.
The Context of Isaiah 23:4
A prophetic reversal using the sea as a voice of judgment against Tyre.
What Does Isaiah 23:4 Mean?
In poetic language, the sea—once Tyre's highway to wealth—now speaks of its own barrenness and inability to nurture. The image reverses Tyre's role as a life-giving commercial hub; she no longer brings forth prosperity, raises new generations, or sustains her people.
This metaphor underscores the totality of judgment: not only is Tyre destroyed, but the very element that made her great can no longer support her mission. The sea, which once promised endless abundance, now promises only emptiness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Isaiah 23:4
What does Isaiah 23:4 mean?
The sea itself is portrayed as barren, unable to sustain life like Tyre did.
What is the context of Isaiah 23:4?
A prophetic reversal using the sea as a voice of judgment against Tyre.