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Isaiah 23:16

Made Simple — Modern English Translation

Translated by Verse Made Simple Editorial
KJV ORIGINAL
Take an harp, go about the city, thou harlot that hast been forgotten; make sweet melody, sing many songs, that thou mayest be remembered.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE

Take a harp and walk through the city, you prostitute who has been forgotten; play beautiful music and sing many songs, so that people will remember you again.

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

This verse is God speaking sarcastically to a city (likely Tyre) that acted unfaithfully, telling it to try to win back attention and favor like a forgotten prostitute seeking customers.

📚 Historical Context

This is part of Isaiah's prophecy against Tyre, a wealthy Phoenician trading city that had grown proud and self-sufficient. The prophet uses the metaphor of a prostitute to describe how Tyre had abandoned faithful relationships and sold itself for profit through corrupt trade practices. After a period of judgment and desolation, Tyre would attempt to restore its former commercial glory and international influence.

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