Isaiah 2:16

KJV

And upon all the ships of Tarshish, and upon all pleasant pictures.

KJV (with Strong's)

And upon all the ships {H591} of Tarshish {H8659}, and upon all pleasant {H2532} pictures {H7914}.

Complete Jewish Bible

for every "Tarshish" ship, for every luxurious vessel.

Berean Standard Bible

against every ship of Tarshish, and against every stately vessel.

American Standard Version

and upon all the ships of Tarshish, and upon all pleasant imagery.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 2:16, a potent declaration within a broader prophetic oracle concerning the "Day of the Lord," proclaims God's impending judgment not only upon the symbols of human pride and self-sufficiency but specifically upon the pinnacle of worldly commercial power and aesthetic achievements. This verse serves as a concise yet profound statement that no human endeavor, wealth, or object of beauty, no matter how impressive or cherished, stands outside the sovereign reach of God's ultimate humbling and exaltation. It underscores the comprehensive nature of divine judgment, encompassing every facet of humanity's self-reliant glory and misplaced trust.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 2:16 is situated within a powerful prophetic section (Isaiah 2:6-22) that vividly describes the "Day of the Lord"—a future time of decisive divine judgment and the ultimate exaltation of God alone. The preceding verses (Isaiah 2:12-15) enumerate various lofty and proud elements of both the natural world and human society—from the towering [cedars of Lebanon and oaks of Bashan](/isaiah/2-13 "Isaiah 2:13 - Symbols of Pride") to high mountains, lofty hills, and fortified walls. All these are depicted as being brought low before the Lord's majesty. Verse 16 continues this comprehensive inventory, extending the scope of judgment to include symbols of human economic prowess and luxurious possessions, thereby reinforcing the universal and inescapable nature of God's coming judgment on all that exalts itself against Him. The passage culminates in a stark warning to [turn away from man, whose breath is in his nostrils](/isaiah/2-22 "Isaiah 2:22 - Futility of Trusting Man"), for he is of no ultimate account.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophet Isaiah ministered in Judah during the 8th century BCE, a period marked by significant geopolitical shifts and internal moral decay. Judah, though distinct from the northern kingdom of Israel, shared many of its spiritual failings, including widespread idolatry, social injustice, and a dangerous reliance on human strength and foreign alliances rather than on the Lord. The "ships of Tarshish" were renowned in the ancient world as large, ocean-going vessels capable of long voyages, symbolizing extensive trade, immense wealth, and global reach. Tarshish itself was a distant, legendary port (possibly in modern-day Spain or a general term for large merchant ships), associated with the accumulation of vast riches. "Pleasant pictures" likely refers to valuable artistic objects, luxurious ornaments, or cherished possessions that represented the pinnacle of human craftsmanship and aesthetic delight. In a society prone to materialism and idolatry, these items could easily become objects of misplaced trust or even worship, diverting attention and devotion from the Creator.
* **Key Themes:** The overarching theme of Isaiah 2 is the **Divine Judgment on Human Pride and Self-Sufficiency**. The "Day of the Lord" is presented as a time when God will humble all human arrogance and self-reliance, demonstrating that true glory belongs to Him alone. This is powerfully articulated in [Isaiah 2:11](/isaiah/2-11 "Isaiah 2:11 - The Haughtiness of Man Humbled") and [Isaiah 2:17](/isaiah/2-17 "Isaiah 2:17 - The Lord Alone Exalted"). Verse 16 specifically highlights the **Humbling of Worldly Power and Wealth**, showing that even the most impressive economic achievements and material possessions are subject to God's ultimate authority. The "ships of Tarshish" symbolize the zenith of commercial power and the accumulation of riches, which will be brought low. Furthermore, the mention of "pleasant pictures" speaks to the **Rejection of Idolatry and Materialism**. These objects, while perhaps not explicit idols in every case, represent cherished possessions that can become objects of excessive human delight, trust, or even a subtle form of idolatry, diverting affection and worship from God. The passage implicitly warns against placing ultimate value in anything other than the Lord, who alone is worthy of exaltation.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **ships (Hebrew, _ʼŏnîyâh'_):** From H591, the feminine form of a root denoting "a ship," this term refers to a vessel, specifically a large seafaring ship. In the context of "ships of Tarshish," it signifies vessels capable of long-distance voyages, emblematic of extensive trade, commercial power, and the accumulation of great wealth from distant lands.
* **Tarshish (Hebrew, _Tarshîysh'_):** From H8659, this term refers to a place, likely a distant port on the Mediterranean (possibly Tartessus in Spain), or it may function as an epithet for a certain class of large, sturdy merchant vessels designed for long-distance trade, regardless of their specific destination. Its inclusion here evokes images of vast commercial empires, advanced seafaring technology, and the pinnacle of human economic prowess and global reach.
* **pleasant pictures (Hebrew, _chemdâh sᵉkîyâh'_):** This phrase combines two Hebrew words. _Chemdâh_ (H2532, pleasant) means "delight" or "desire," referring to something highly desirable, goodly, or precious. _Sᵉkîyâh_ (H7914, pictures) refers to a "conspicuous object," "image," or "picture." Together, "pleasant pictures" denotes objects of beauty, luxury, or aesthetic value that are highly cherished and admired. These could be works of art, costly ornaments, or any valuable possessions that people might take pride in, trust in, or excessively admire, potentially diverting their ultimate devotion from God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And upon all the ships of Tarshish":** This clause declares that God's judgment will extend to the very instruments and symbols of human economic power and global reach. The "ships of Tarshish" represent the most advanced and wealthy commercial enterprises of the ancient world, signifying the accumulation of vast material riches and the pride associated with such endeavors. The inclusion of "all" emphasizes the comprehensive nature of this judgment, leaving no aspect of human commercial might untouched.
* **"and upon all pleasant pictures":** This second clause broadens the scope of judgment to encompass objects of human aesthetic achievement, luxury, and personal desire. "Pleasant pictures" refers to valuable works of art, ornaments, or any cherished possessions that people might admire, trust in, or even subtly worship. This signifies that God's judgment will also fall upon those things that humans create for their delight and pride, particularly when these become objects of misplaced affection or sources of self-sufficiency, diverting worship from the Creator.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 2:16 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message of comprehensive divine judgment. **Symbolism** is paramount, with "ships of Tarshish" representing the epitome of human commercial power, global wealth, and technological achievement, while "pleasant pictures" symbolize luxurious possessions, aesthetic beauty, and objects of human pride and idolatrous affection. These concrete images stand for abstract concepts of human self-reliance and misplaced trust. The repeated use of "all" (implied by the structure and context of the broader passage) creates a sense of **totality and universality**, emphasizing that no aspect of human endeavor or possession will escape God's scrutiny. Furthermore, the verse functions as part of a larger **enumeration**, where various symbols of human loftiness are systematically listed to be brought low, building a cumulative effect that underscores the absolute sovereignty of God over all creation and human achievement.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 2:16 serves as a powerful theological statement about God's absolute sovereignty and His coming judgment on all forms of human pride, materialism, and idolatry. It teaches that nothing created by human hands, no matter how grand or beautiful, can stand against the Lord's ultimate authority. This verse underscores the transient nature of worldly wealth and beauty, contrasting it sharply with the eternal glory of God. It challenges humanity's tendency to find security and identity in possessions and achievements rather than in the Creator, foreshadowing a time when all such misplaced trust will be exposed and humbled. The "Day of the Lord" is not merely a future event but a timeless principle that God will bring low all that is exalted in human eyes, so that He alone may be exalted.
* [Psalm 33:16-17](/psalms/33-16-17 "Psalm 33:16-17 - No King Saved by Great Army")
* [Matthew 6:19-21](/matthew/6-19-21 "Matthew 6:19-21 - Lay Up Treasures in Heaven")
* [1 John 2:15-17](/1_john/2-15-17 "1 John 2:15-17 - Do Not Love the World")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 2:16 confronts us with a profound challenge: where do we place our ultimate trust and affection? In a world increasingly defined by material accumulation, technological advancement, and the pursuit of aesthetic perfection, this verse serves as a stark reminder that all human endeavors, no matter how impressive, are ultimately transient and subject to God's sovereign will. It calls us to examine our hearts and identify any "ships of Tarshish" or "pleasant pictures" in our lives—anything that consumes our attention, provides a false sense of security, or subtly competes for the worship due to God alone. True wisdom and lasting security are found not in accumulating earthly treasures or admiring human achievements, but in humbly acknowledging God's supremacy and aligning our lives with His purposes. This verse urges us to cultivate a spirit of detachment from worldly things and a deeper attachment to the Creator, recognizing that only what is built on His foundation will endure the Day of the Lord.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "ships of Tarshish" (symbols of wealth, power, or achievement) do I tend to rely on or take pride in, rather than God?**
* **Are there "pleasant pictures" (cherished possessions, aesthetic pursuits, or personal delights) in my life that have subtly become objects of misplaced affection or even a form of idolatry?**
* **How does the transient nature of worldly possessions, as highlighted in this verse, impact my priorities and aspirations?**
* **In what practical ways can I shift my focus from accumulating earthly treasures to building treasures that endure in God's kingdom?**

### FAQ
**What is the "Day of the Lord" mentioned in Isaiah 2?**

Answer: The "Day of the Lord" is a recurring prophetic theme throughout the Old Testament, particularly prominent in Isaiah. It refers to a future time when God will decisively intervene in human history to execute judgment on sin, humble human pride, and establish His righteous kingdom. It is a day of both divine wrath against ungodliness and vindication for His faithful people. In Isaiah 2, it specifically emphasizes the humbling of all human loftiness and self-sufficiency, so that "[the Lord alone will be exalted in that day](/isaiah/2-11 "Isaiah 2:11 - The Haughtiness of Man Humbled")" and "[the Lord alone will be exalted](/isaiah/2-17 "Isaiah 2:17 - The Lord Alone Exalted")".

**Why are "ships of Tarshish" specifically mentioned?**

Answer: "Ships of Tarshish" were renowned in the ancient world as large, sturdy merchant vessels capable of extensive voyages, symbolizing the pinnacle of commercial power, global trade, and the accumulation of vast wealth. By mentioning them, Isaiah emphasizes that even the most impressive and far-reaching human economic endeavors and the wealth they generate are subject to God's ultimate judgment. It represents the comprehensive nature of God's sovereignty over all human enterprise and material prosperity, as seen in other prophetic judgments against commercial hubs like Tyre in [Ezekiel 27](/ezekiel/27 "Ezekiel 27 - Lament Over Tyre").

**What do "pleasant pictures" represent in this context?**

Answer: "Pleasant pictures" (Hebrew: *chemdâh sᵉkîyâh*) refers to highly desirable objects, valuable works of art, luxurious ornaments, or any cherished possessions that people might admire and take delight in. While not explicitly idols in every instance, they represent objects of human pride, aesthetic achievement, and material desire that can easily become sources of misplaced affection or trust, diverting attention and worship from God. The judgment upon them signifies that God's sovereignty extends even to the most beautiful and prized aspects of human culture and personal possessions when they become objects of idolatry or self-sufficiency. This theme resonates with warnings against materialism found in the New Testament, such as in [Matthew 6:19-21](/matthew/6-19-21 "Matthew 6:19-21 - Lay Up Treasures in Heaven").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 2:16, with its declaration of God's judgment upon all symbols of human pride, wealth, and aesthetic achievement, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "Day of the Lord" that Isaiah prophesies, a day when all human loftiness is brought low and God alone is exalted, culminates in the coming of Christ. Jesus, though [God in very nature](/philippians/2-6 "Philippians 2:6 - Christ's Humility"), did not cling to His divine prerogatives but [humbled Himself](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Obedience to Death"), becoming obedient to death on a cross. This act of supreme humility stands in stark contrast to the human pride symbolized by the "ships of Tarshish" and "pleasant pictures." Through His crucifixion, Christ disarmed the powers and authorities of this world ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")), demonstrating the futility of worldly strength and wisdom apart from God. His resurrection and ascension then fully establish the exaltation of God, as every knee will one day [bow to Jesus](/philippians/2-10 "Philippians 2:10 - Every Knee Shall Bow") and every tongue confess that He is Lord. Thus, the humbling of all human glory and the exaltation of God, prophesied in Isaiah, is perfectly realized in Christ, who is the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God") and the [true treasure](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - Christ, in Whom Are Hidden All Treasures") in whom all wisdom and knowledge are hidden, rendering all earthly "pictures" pale in comparison.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Kings 10:22

For the king had at sea a navy of Tharshish with the navy of Hiram: once in three years came the navy of Tharshish, bringing gold, and silver, ivory, and apes, and peacocks.

Isaiah 23:1

¶ The burden of Tyre. Howl, ye ships of Tarshish; for it is laid waste, so that there is no house, no entering in: from the land of Chittim it is revealed to them.

Numbers 33:52

Then ye shall drive out all the inhabitants of the land from before you, and destroy all their pictures, and destroy all their molten images, and quite pluck down all their high places:

Revelation 18:11

And the merchants of the earth shall weep and mourn over her; for no man buyeth their merchandise any more:

Isaiah 60:9

¶ Surely the isles shall wait for me, and the ships of Tarshish first, to bring thy sons from far, their silver and their gold with them, unto the name of the LORD thy God, and to the Holy One of Israel, because he hath glorified thee.

1 Kings 22:48

Jehoshaphat made ships of Tharshish to go to Ophir for gold: but they went not; for the ships were broken at Eziongeber.

1 Kings 22:49

Then said Ahaziah the son of Ahab unto Jehoshaphat, Let my servants go with thy servants in the ships. But Jehoshaphat would not.