Definition: Pass through thy land as a river, O daughter of Tarshish: [there is] no more strength.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful and somewhat mysterious verse from Isaiah 23:10. It’s packed with meaning, so we'll go step-by-step: Here’s the basic idea: This verse speaks about a future time when God is going to restore and heal something that has been damaged or broken in the land of Israel (and possibly broader regions). It suggests a period of great renewal and restoration. Let's unpack it word by word: “Isaiah 23:10” : This is a specific passage from the Old Testament book of Isaiah. It’s a prophecy – a prediction of what will happen. “Pass through thy land as a river” : This is the core metaphor. Rivers are powerful, flowing forces that carve paths and shape landscapes. "Pass through thy land" means to move through or traverse the land. The image of a river suggests movement, transformation, and continuous flow. It's not just passing by – it’s flowing through. “O daughter of Tarshish” : This is where it gets interesting. Tarshish was an ancient port city located in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea (modern-day Israel). It was a significant trading center and a place of wealth and power. "Daughter of Tarshish" refers to a specific, powerful nation – likely a kingdom or region that has been weakened or diminished. “[there is] no more strength” : This is the crucial part. The verse says there’s “no more strength.” It suggests a loss of power, vitality, and perhaps even resilience. Putting it all together - What does this mean? This verse paints a picture of a time when God will: 1. Restore: He will actively repair what has been damaged or broken – likely referring to something like a land, a kingdom, or a people. 2. Renew: He will bring back the vitality and strength that has been lost. 3. Healing: The process of restoration is not just about fixing things; it’s about healing wounds and restoring balance. Interpretations & Context (Important Note - It's not always straightforward): A Time of Judgment/Rebuilding: Many scholars believe this verse refers to a period of judgment or upheaval in the land of Israel, which was plagued by sin and oppression. The "daughter of Tarshish" represents this powerful, potentially disruptive force. A Promise of Restoration: It’s often interpreted as a promise that God will ultimately restore everything, including the people and the land. Focus on God's Sovereignty: The verse emphasizes God's control and power over events, demonstrating that He is actively working to bring about positive change. In short, this verse speaks of a future restoration – a time when God will heal, renew, and restore something that has been damaged, bringing back strength and vitality to the land. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Explore different interpretations of the verse? Discuss its connection to other biblical stories or themes?