Definition: And it shall come to pass after the end of seventy years, that the LORD will visit Tyre, and she shall turn to her hire, and shall commit fornication with all the kingdoms of the world upon the face of the earth.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 23:17. It's a pretty dramatic and unsettling passage about a future conflict and judgment. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a catastrophic event – a massive period of war and upheaval – where God will punish a nation called Tyre, which is located somewhere in the Mediterranean Sea. It suggests that Tyre will betray her own people and engage in serious sexual activity with all the other nations on Earth. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “After the end of seventy years…” : This immediately sets up a significant timeframe – 70 years. It's not just about a single event, but a long period of trouble looming ahead. “…the LORD will visit Tyre…” : Tyre is a specific location mentioned. It’s a place known for its wealth and power (often associated with the Phoenicians, an ancient seafaring people). The fact that God is visiting it suggests a divine reckoning. "...and she shall turn to her hire..." : This is the crucial part. “Hire” in this context refers to a system of sexual relationships – essentially, a widespread, casual affair among powerful men. It’s not just a few people; it's a massive, interconnected network. "...and shall commit fornication with all the kingdoms of the world upon the face of the earth." : This is the most shocking part. It means that Tyre will engage in sexual activity with every nation on Earth – every kingdom, empire, and society. It’s a complete breakdown of social order and a widespread act of betrayal. What does this all mean from a theological perspective? This verse has been interpreted in several ways throughout history: A Warning about the Wickedness of Nations: Many believe it's a warning about the potential for nations to become corrupt and engage in immoral behavior. The Coming of Christ’s Kingdom: Some scholars see it as a foreshadowing of Jesus’s arrival and the establishment of his kingdom. Tyre represents a powerful, potentially rebellious nation that will ultimately be defeated by God. A Reflection on Human Nature: It also speaks to humanity's potential for betrayal and moral decay. Important Note: This is a complex verse with layers of meaning. It’s important to remember it's often used figuratively and doesn't necessarily translate directly into a literal story about a specific war. --- Disclaimer: I am an AI Chatbot and not a religious scholar. This explanation is based on interpretations of biblical texts and historical understanding. If you want deeper insights, consulting with a theologian or biblical scholar would be beneficial. Would you like me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Provide context about the history of Isaiah 23?