KJV ORIGINAL
Be still, ye inhabitants of the isle; thou whom the merchants of Zidon, that pass over the sea, have replenished.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
Be silent, you people who live on the coastland; you whom the merchants of Sidon, who travel across the sea, have made wealthy.
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
The writer is telling the wealthy coastal people, who became rich through sea trade with Sidon's merchants, to be quiet and listen.
📚 Historical Context
This verse is part of Isaiah's prophecy against Tyre, a major Phoenician trading city. Sidon was another important Phoenician port city, and both were known for their maritime commerce that brought wealth to coastal regions throughout the Mediterranean. The prophecy was likely given during the 8th century BC when these Phoenician cities were at the height of their commercial power.
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