Isaiah 23:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 23:6
6 Pass ye over to Tarshish; howl, ye inhabitants of the isle.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 23 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of truth, worship, redemption. Written during the Assyrian and pre-exilic periods (c. 740-680 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Addressed Judah during Assyria's rise, Babylon's threat, and anticipated restoration.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-18: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Isaiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Isaiah 23:6
6 Pass ye over to Tarshish; howl, ye inhabitants of the isle.
Analysis
Pass ye over to Tarshish; howl, ye inhabitants of the isle—Tarshish (תַּרְשִׁישׁ), probably located in southern Spain, represented the western extent of Phoenician colonization. The command to 'pass over' (ivru) means flee, evacuate, seek refuge. Howl (yeililu) is the sustained wailing of mourning, the opposite of the stunned silence commanded in verse 2. As reality sets in, silent shock gives way to vocal grief.
The refugees flee from the great trading capital to its farthest colony—a reversal of fortune that strips away pride. Those who ruled Mediterranean commerce now run as displaced persons seeking shelter in distant outposts. This prophetic image finds echo in Revelation 18:15-19, where merchants weep over fallen Babylon's smoke from a safe distance. The passage warns that earthly kingdoms, however geographically extensive, offer no ultimate refuge. When God's judgment falls on the center, the periphery cannot provide security. Only the kingdom that cannot be shaken (Hebrews 12:28) offers true refuge.
Historical Context
Tarshish was likely Tartessos in Spain, where Phoenicians mined silver and established western trading posts. It represented the extreme edge of the known world. The image of Tyrians fleeing to their most distant colony captures the totality of their catastrophe—even the empire's edges could not escape judgment's reach.
Reflection
- Where do people flee for refuge when their secure world collapses—and why are these refuges ultimately inadequate?
- How does this verse expose the futility of geographic escape from spiritual or moral consequences?
- What is the difference between seeking refuge in distant places versus seeking refuge in God?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 23:12