Isaiah 23:5

As at the report concerning Egypt, so shal they be sorely pained at the report of Tyre. Isaiah 23:5 (KJV)

This verse is part of a prophecy pronounced by the prophet Isaiah against the city of Tyre, a major Phoenician seaport and trading hub in ancient times. The prophecy against Tyre, which begins in Isaiah 23:1, encompasses several verses and contains both literal and metaphorical elements. Isaiah prophesies about the destruction and downfall of Tyre, a powerful and prosperous city known for its maritime trade and economic wealth. The following verses provide more context to understand the significance of Isaiah 23:5: ‘Be still, ye inhabitants of the isle; thou whom the merchants of Zidon, that pass over the sea, have replenished. And by great waters the seed of Sihor, the harvest of the river, is her revenue; and she is a mart of nations’ (Isaiah 23:2-3, KJV). These verses describe Tyre as a bustling city that had thrived through commerce and trade. It had close ties with the nearby city of Zidon (Sidon) and enjoyed the benefits of abundant harvests and prosperity from the waters. However, the prophecy takes a darker turn, and in Isaiah 23:4, it is revealed that Tyre will face devastation: ‘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’ (Isaiah 23:4, KJV). Here, the mention of Zidon is a reminder of Tyre’s connection with the city. The imagery portrays the sea, on which Tyre relied heavily for trade, as no longer providing sustenance or prosperity. The verse signifies the impending judgment and downfall that Tyre will experience. Coming to Isaiah 23:5 itself, the phrase ‘When the report reacheth to Egypt, they shall be sorely pained at the report of Tyre’ indicates that the Egyptians will experience great distress upon hearing news of Tyre’s destruction. This verse emphasizes the magnitude of the devastation that Tyre will face and suggests that it will bring great anguish to others, particularly Egypt. In summary, Isaiah 23:5 is part of a prophecy in which the prophet Isaiah predicts the downfall of Tyre. The verse indicates that the Egyptians will be greatly afflicted upon receiving news of Tyre’s impending destruction.