Book of Isaiah - Chapter 16 - Verse 11

The verse "Wherefore my bowels shall sound like an harp for Moab, and mine inward parts for Kirharesh" is a symbolic expression of deep sorrow and mourning. In ancient Hebrew culture, the bowels were thought to be the seat of emotions, so when the prophet Isaiah speaks of his bowels sounding like a harp, he is conveying the intense grief he feels for the nations of Moab and Kirharesh. The prophet's innermost being resonates with sorrow and lamentation for these two regions, which were enemies of Israel at the time. He uses poetic language to express the profound emotional impact that their suffering has on him. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the prophet's compassion and empathy towards those who are experiencing hardship and devastation, and his willingness to mourn alongside them.

In this verse, the phrase "my bowels shall sound like an harp for Moab" is a unique imagery used by the prophet Isaiah to convey a deep sense of sorrow and mourning. The term "bowels" in ancient Hebrew culture was often used to refer to the inward parts of a person, including the heart and emotional center. Therefore, the prophet is expressing his profound grief for the land of Moab by likening the sound of his anguish to that of a harp. The harp was a symbol of lamentation and mourning in Hebrew culture, and its mournful sound was often associated with expressions of sorrow and sadness.

Additionally, the mention of "Kirharesh" in the verse is believed to be a reference to a specific city or region in Moab. The prophet's declaration that his inward parts are stirred for Kirharesh further emphasizes the extent of his emotional distress and empathy for the people of Moab. Through this poetic language, the prophet Isaiah conveys a message of compassion and solidarity with those who are suffering, highlighting the importance of empathy and understanding in times of hardship.