Isaiah 23:6

Cross over to Tarshish; wail, O inhabitants of the coastland!

Study Bible

Cross over to Tarshish;
This phrase suggests a movement or escape to Tarshish, a distant and wealthy trading partner known for its ships and commerce. Tarshish is often associated with the western extremities of the known world, possibly modern-day Spain. The directive to "cross over" implies a significant journey, indicating the severity of the situation in Tyre. Historically, Tyre was a major Phoenician port city, and its merchants would have been familiar with long sea voyages. The call to go to Tarshish may symbolize seeking refuge or continuing trade elsewhere due to impending disaster. This reflects the broader biblical theme of judgment and exile, as seen in other prophetic books.

wail, O inhabitants of the coastland!
The call to "wail" is a common prophetic expression of lamentation and mourning in response to divine judgment. The "inhabitants of the coastland" refers to the people living in the coastal regions, particularly those associated with Tyre and its surrounding areas. These coastal inhabitants were heavily reliant on maritime trade, and the fall of Tyre would have had devastating economic and social impacts. The imagery of wailing underscores the depth of loss and despair. This lamentation is echoed in other prophetic writings, such as Jeremiah and Ezekiel, where the downfall of cities and nations leads to widespread mourning. The call to wail also serves as a warning to heed the consequences of pride and reliance on wealth, themes prevalent throughout the prophetic literature.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Tarshish
A distant port city, often associated with wealth and trade. It is believed to be located in the western Mediterranean, possibly in modern-day Spain. Tarshish represents a place of refuge or escape for the people of Tyre.

2. Inhabitants of the Coastland
Refers to the people living in the coastal regions, particularly those associated with the city of Tyre. These inhabitants are being called to lament due to the impending judgment and destruction.

3. Tyre
An ancient Phoenician city known for its wealth and maritime prowess. Tyre was a significant center of trade and commerce in the ancient world.

4. Isaiah
The prophet who delivered God's message of judgment and hope to the people of Israel and surrounding nations, including Tyre.

5. Judgment
The event of divine retribution that is prophesied against Tyre for its pride and reliance on wealth rather than God.

Teaching Points

The Futility of Trusting in Wealth
Tyre's reliance on its economic power and trade connections ultimately led to its downfall. Believers are reminded to place their trust in God rather than in material wealth.

The Inevitability of Divine Judgment
God's judgment is certain and just. The inhabitants of Tyre are called to wail, recognizing the seriousness of their situation. Christians are encouraged to live righteously, aware of God's justice.

The Call to Repentance
The call to "cross over to Tarshish" symbolizes a need for change and repentance. Believers should examine their lives and turn away from sin, seeking refuge in God.

The Sovereignty of God Over Nations
God's control over the rise and fall of nations is evident in the prophecy against Tyre. This serves as a reminder of God's ultimate authority and the temporary nature of earthly powers.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the call to "cross over to Tarshish" signify for the inhabitants of Tyre, and how can this be applied to our lives today when facing judgment or crisis?

2. How does the downfall of Tyre serve as a warning against the dangers of pride and reliance on material wealth? Can you identify other biblical examples of this theme?

3. In what ways does the prophecy against Tyre demonstrate God's sovereignty over nations and history? How should this influence our perspective on current world events?

4. How can we ensure that our trust remains in God rather than in the temporary securities of this world? What practical steps can we take to cultivate this trust?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced a "crossing over" moment in your spiritual journey. How did this change your relationship with God, and what lessons did you learn that align with the message of Isaiah 23:6?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezekiel 27
This chapter provides a lament for Tyre, describing its wealth and eventual downfall, similar to the themes in Isaiah 23.

Revelation 18
The fall of Babylon is depicted with imagery reminiscent of Tyre's destruction, highlighting the theme of divine judgment against pride and materialism.

Psalm 52:7
This verse speaks to the futility of trusting in wealth and strength rather than in God, echoing the message of judgment against Tyre.