Isaiah 23:16

"Take up your harp, stroll through the city, O forgotten harlot. Make sweet melody, sing many a song, so you will be remembered."

Study Bible

Take up your harp
The phrase "Take up your harp" suggests an action of engaging in music, which in ancient times was a significant part of cultural and religious expression. The harp, a stringed instrument, was often associated with joy, celebration, and sometimes lamentation. In the Hebrew context, the harp (Hebrew: כִּנּוֹר, kinnor) was a common instrument used in worship and festivities. This call to take up the harp indicates a return to a former way of life, possibly suggesting a revival or continuation of cultural practices despite adversity.

walk around the city
The instruction to "walk around the city" implies a public display or performance. In ancient cities, musicians and performers would often walk through the streets to attract attention or to bring a message. This action could symbolize a call to reclaim presence and influence within the city, suggesting resilience and the continuation of life and culture even after hardship. Historically, cities were centers of trade and culture, and walking around them would be a way to engage with the community.

O forgotten prostitute
The term "O forgotten prostitute" is a metaphorical reference to Tyre, a city known for its wealth and trade, often depicted as a prostitute in prophetic literature due to its commercial relationships with many nations. The word "forgotten" indicates a loss of status or influence. In the Hebrew context, the use of "prostitute" (Hebrew: זוֹנָה, zonah) is symbolic of unfaithfulness or idolatry, often used by prophets to describe cities or nations that have turned away from God. This phrase highlights the city's fall from prominence and the need to regain its former position.

make sweet melody
The phrase "make sweet melody" suggests creating music that is pleasing and attractive. In the context of the verse, it implies an effort to regain favor or attention through charm and skill. Music in the ancient world was not only entertainment but also a means of communication and persuasion. The Hebrew root for "melody" (נָעִים, na'im) conveys pleasantness and delight, indicating that the music should be appealing and captivating.

sing many songs
"Sing many songs" emphasizes the need for persistence and variety in the effort to be remembered or to regain influence. Songs in ancient times were a way to tell stories, convey messages, and preserve history. The act of singing many songs suggests a comprehensive and sustained effort to reach out and connect with others. In the biblical context, singing was often associated with worship and celebration, indicating a hopeful and determined spirit.

that you may be remembered
The ultimate goal expressed in "that you may be remembered" is the restoration of reputation and influence. In the ancient Near Eastern culture, being remembered was crucial for legacy and honor. The Hebrew root for "remembered" (זָכַר, zakar) implies not just recollection but also consideration and acknowledgment. This phrase underscores the desire for restoration and the hope that through persistent effort, the city of Tyre might regain its place in the world.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Tyre
An ancient Phoenician city known for its wealth and trade. In Isaiah 23, Tyre is personified as a harlot due to its commercial and political alliances.

2. The Forgotten Harlot
Represents Tyre, which is depicted as a once-prominent city that has fallen into obscurity and is attempting to regain its former status through its trade and influence.

3. Isaiah
The prophet who delivers God's message of judgment and restoration. His prophecies often include symbolic language and vivid imagery.

4. The Harp
A musical instrument symbolizing the attempt to regain attention and favor through charm and allure.

5. The City
Represents the broader society or world that Tyre seeks to influence and captivate once again.

Teaching Points

The Fleeting Nature of Worldly Success
Tyre's attempt to regain prominence highlights the temporary nature of worldly wealth and status. Believers are reminded to seek eternal treasures in heaven rather than earthly acclaim.

Repentance and Restoration
The call to "sing many songs" can be seen as an opportunity for repentance and a return to God. It serves as a reminder that restoration is possible through genuine repentance.

The Power of Influence
Just as Tyre sought to influence through charm, Christians are called to be a positive influence in the world, using their gifts to glorify God rather than seeking personal gain.

The Danger of Forgetfulness
Being "forgotten" serves as a warning against spiritual complacency. Believers must remain vigilant in their faith and not allow themselves to drift away from God's purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the depiction of Tyre as a "forgotten harlot" challenge our understanding of worldly success and its sustainability?

2. In what ways can the imagery of the harp and song be applied to our own efforts to regain what we have lost? How can this be aligned with God's will?

3. How does the account of Tyre's rise and fall parallel the warnings found in Revelation 18 about the fall of Babylon? What lessons can we draw from these parallels?

4. Reflect on a time when you felt "forgotten" or overlooked. How can Isaiah 23:16 encourage you to seek restoration and purpose in God?

5. How can we ensure that our influence in the world is used for God's glory rather than personal gain, as seen in the example of Tyre's attempts to regain prominence?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezekiel 27
This chapter provides a lament for Tyre, describing its wealth and eventual downfall, similar to Isaiah's portrayal.

Revelation 18
The fall of Babylon is depicted with similar imagery to Tyre, emphasizing the transient nature of worldly wealth and power.

Proverbs 7
The imagery of the harlot can be connected to the warnings against seductive and deceitful influences.