Isaiah 23:15

At that time Tyre will be forgotten for seventy years--the span of a king's life. But at the end of seventy years, it will happen to Tyre as in the song of the harlot:

Study Bible

At that time Tyre will be forgotten for seventy years—
This phrase indicates a specific period of judgment upon Tyre, a prominent Phoenician city known for its wealth and trade. The "seventy years" is symbolic of a complete period of desolation, often associated with divine judgment. This timeframe is reminiscent of the Babylonian captivity of Judah, suggesting a parallel in divine discipline. Historically, Tyre faced several sieges, including those by the Assyrians and Babylonians, which could align with this period of being "forgotten."

the span of a king’s life.
The reference to "the span of a king’s life" suggests a typical reign or lifetime of a monarch, emphasizing the temporality and fragility of human power compared to God's eternal sovereignty. This could imply that the period of Tyre's desolation is as long as a king's influence lasts, highlighting the transient nature of earthly kingdoms. It also underscores the idea that God's plans and judgments are not bound by human timelines.

But at the end of seventy years,
This phrase introduces a turning point, indicating that the period of judgment is not permanent. It reflects God's mercy and the possibility of restoration after a time of discipline. The completion of seventy years signifies a divinely appointed time for change, similar to the restoration of Israel after the Babylonian exile.

it will happen to Tyre as in the song of the harlot:
The "song of the harlot" is a metaphorical reference to Tyre's return to its former ways of commerce and trade, akin to a harlot resuming her profession. This imagery suggests that Tyre will regain its economic activity but also implies a moral and spiritual critique of its practices. The use of a "harlot" metaphor is consistent with prophetic literature, where unfaithfulness to God is often depicted in terms of prostitution. This phrase foreshadows Tyre's future, where it may recover materially but still face spiritual challenges.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Tyre
An ancient Phoenician city known for its wealth and trade. It was a significant maritime power and a hub of commerce in the ancient world.

2. Seventy Years
A symbolic period often used in the Bible to denote a complete cycle of judgment or exile, similar to the Babylonian captivity of Judah.

3. The Song of the Prostitute
A metaphorical reference indicating Tyre's return to its former ways of commerce and trade, likened to a prostitute returning to her trade.

4. Isaiah
The prophet who conveyed God's messages to the people of Israel and surrounding nations, including prophecies of judgment and restoration.

5. The King’s Life
A reference to the typical lifespan of a king, used here to symbolize the duration of Tyre's period of being forgotten.

Teaching Points

The Temporality of Earthly Power
Tyre's eventual downfall serves as a reminder that earthly power and wealth are temporary and subject to God's sovereign will.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
The seventy-year period signifies God's control over time and history, demonstrating that His judgments are purposeful and measured.

Repentance and Restoration
The metaphor of the prostitute suggests the possibility of returning to former ways, but it also opens the door for repentance and transformation.

The Danger of Complacency
Tyre's account warns against becoming complacent in prosperity, as it can lead to spiritual and moral decline.

The Role of Prophecy
Prophecies like Isaiah's serve to guide, warn, and prepare God's people for future events, encouraging them to trust in His plans.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the seventy-year period symbolize in the context of Tyre, and how does it relate to other biblical instances of seventy years?

2. How can the account of Tyre serve as a warning to modern societies that prioritize wealth and commerce over spiritual values?

3. In what ways does God's judgment on Tyre reflect His sovereignty and justice, and how can this understanding impact our view of current world events?

4. How does the metaphor of the prostitute in Isaiah 23:15 challenge us to examine areas of our lives where we might be returning to old, sinful habits?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Tyre's account to ensure that we remain faithful and obedient to God, even in times of prosperity?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 25:11-12
This passage speaks of the seventy-year period of Babylonian dominance, drawing a parallel to the seventy years mentioned in Isaiah 23:15.

Ezekiel 26-28
These chapters contain prophecies against Tyre, detailing its downfall and the reasons for God's judgment against it.

Revelation 18
The fall of Babylon is described in terms similar to the judgment on Tyre, emphasizing themes of commerce, wealth, and eventual divine judgment.