Isaiah 23:3

On the great waters came the grain of Shihor; the harvest of the Nile was the revenue of Tyre; she was the merchant of the nations.

Study Bible

On the great waters
This phrase evokes the image of vast, expansive seas, which were the primary means of trade and transportation in the ancient world. The "great waters" symbolize the far-reaching influence and connectivity of Tyre, a prominent Phoenician city known for its maritime prowess. Historically, Tyre was a hub of commerce, with its ships traversing the Mediterranean Sea, establishing trade routes that connected various cultures and economies. The "great waters" also metaphorically represent the vastness of God's creation and His sovereignty over all nations and their endeavors.

came the grain of the Shihor
"Shihor" is often identified with the Nile River, particularly its eastern branches. The grain from the Shihor signifies the agricultural bounty of Egypt, a land renowned for its fertile soil and abundant harvests. In the context of Isaiah, this grain represents the wealth and sustenance that flowed into Tyre, making it a prosperous city. Theologically, this highlights God's provision and the interconnectedness of His creation, where one nation's abundance can become another's sustenance, reflecting the divine orchestration of resources.

the harvest of the Nile
The Nile River was the lifeblood of Egypt, providing the necessary irrigation for crops in an otherwise arid region. The "harvest of the Nile" underscores the economic strength and agricultural productivity of Egypt, which was a key supplier of grain in the ancient world. This phrase also serves as a reminder of God's providence, as He is the ultimate source of all harvests and blessings. Theologically, it points to the idea that all earthly wealth and resources are under God's control and are to be used for His purposes.

was the revenue of Tyre
This phrase indicates that Tyre's wealth was significantly derived from its trade with Egypt, particularly in grain. Tyre's economy was heavily reliant on its ability to import and export goods, making it a central marketplace in the ancient Near East. The "revenue of Tyre" reflects the city's dependence on international trade and the flow of goods across borders. From a spiritual perspective, it serves as a caution against placing trust in material wealth and economic power, reminding believers that true security and prosperity come from God alone.

and she became the marketplace of the nations
Tyre's designation as the "marketplace of the nations" highlights its role as a major commercial center where goods from various regions were exchanged. This phrase captures the city's cosmopolitan nature and its influence on global trade. Historically, Tyre was known for its skilled merchants and its production of valuable goods, such as the famous Tyrian purple dye. Spiritually, this serves as a metaphor for the church's mission to be a light to the nations, spreading the gospel and drawing people from all corners of the earth to the truth of God's Word. It also warns against the potential for pride and self-reliance that can accompany great wealth and influence, urging believers to remain humble and dependent on God.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Shihor
Often identified with the Nile River or a branch of it, representing the source of agricultural abundance and trade goods.

3. Nile
The major river in Egypt, symbolizing fertility and economic prosperity due to its annual flooding, which enriched the soil for agriculture.

4. Marketplace of the Nations
Refers to Tyre's role as a central trading hub where goods from various regions were exchanged.

Teaching Points

The Transience of Earthly Wealth
Tyre's wealth and status as a marketplace remind us that material prosperity is temporary. We should focus on storing treasures in heaven rather than on earth.

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
The rise and fall of Tyre illustrate God's control over nations and economies. We should trust in God's plan and timing, even when worldly powers seem dominant.

The Importance of Righteous Stewardship
Just as the grain of the Nile was a source of revenue, we are called to be good stewards of the resources God provides, using them for His glory and the benefit of others.

The Dangers of Pride and Self-Sufficiency
Tyre's downfall serves as a warning against pride and reliance on human achievements. We must remain humble and dependent on God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the description of Tyre as the "marketplace of the nations" reflect its role in the ancient world, and what can we learn about the influence of commerce today?

2. In what ways does the imagery of the Nile's harvest in Isaiah 23:3 remind us of God's provision, and how can we apply this understanding to our daily lives?

3. How does the fall of Tyre serve as a warning against the dangers of pride and self-reliance, and what other biblical examples illustrate this principle?

4. What parallels can we draw between the economic power of Tyre and modern-day economic systems, and how should Christians navigate these systems with integrity?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Tyre's account to ensure that our personal and communal resources are used in ways that honor God and serve His purposes?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezekiel 27
This chapter provides a detailed lament over Tyre, describing its extensive trade network and the wealth it accumulated through commerce.

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

Genesis 41
Joseph's management of Egypt's grain during the famine highlights the importance of the Nile's harvest and its impact on surrounding regions.