Ezekiel 26:11

The hooves of his horses will trample all your streets. He will slaughter your people with the sword, and your mighty pillars will fall to the ground.

Study Bible

The hooves of his horses
This phrase evokes the imagery of a powerful and overwhelming military force. In ancient warfare, horses were symbols of strength and speed, often used by conquering armies. The Hebrew word for "hooves" (פַּרְסוֹת, parsot) emphasizes the destructive power of the invading force. Historically, this refers to the Babylonian army led by Nebuchadnezzar, which God used as an instrument of judgment against Tyre. The sound of trampling hooves signifies the inevitability and thoroughness of the coming destruction.

will trample all your streets
The act of trampling suggests complete domination and devastation. Streets, in ancient cities, were the lifelines of commerce and daily life. The Hebrew root for "trample" (רָמַס, ramas) implies a forceful and contemptuous crushing. This imagery indicates that no part of Tyre will be spared from the invasion, symbolizing the totality of God's judgment against the city's pride and idolatry.

he will slay your people with the sword
The sword is a common biblical symbol of divine judgment and warfare. The Hebrew word for "slay" (הָרַג, harag) conveys the idea of a violent and decisive act. This phrase underscores the severity of the punishment that Tyre will face. Historically, the Babylonians were known for their ruthless military campaigns, and this prophecy foretells the loss of life that would accompany their conquest.

and your strong pillars
Pillars in ancient architecture were not only structural but also symbolic of strength and stability. The Hebrew word for "pillars" (מַצֵּבוֹת, matzevot) can also refer to monuments or memorial stones, often associated with religious or cultural significance. In the context of Tyre, these pillars likely represent the city's economic and political power. Their fall signifies the collapse of what Tyre relied upon for its identity and security.

will fall to the ground
The imagery of falling to the ground denotes utter defeat and humiliation. The Hebrew root for "fall" (נָפַל, naphal) is often used in the context of judgment and destruction. This phrase completes the picture of Tyre's downfall, emphasizing that what once stood tall and proud will be brought low. It serves as a reminder of the futility of human pride and the sovereignty of God over nations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who ministered during the Babylonian exile. He conveyed God's messages of judgment and restoration.

2. Tyre
An ancient and wealthy city located on the Mediterranean coast, known for its commerce and strong fortifications. It was a significant center of trade and culture.

3. Nebuchadnezzar
The king of Babylon, who was used by God as an instrument of judgment against Tyre and other nations.

4. Babylonian Conquest
The event where Nebuchadnezzar's forces besieged and eventually conquered Tyre, fulfilling the prophecy.

5. God's Judgment
The overarching theme of this passage, where God pronounces judgment on Tyre for its pride and opposition to His people.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God is in control of all nations and uses them to accomplish His purposes, even when they are unaware.

The Consequences of Pride
Tyre's downfall serves as a warning against pride and self-reliance. God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.

The Certainty of God's Word
Prophecies like those against Tyre demonstrate the reliability and truth of God's Word. What He declares will come to pass.

Judgment and Restoration
While God judges sin, His ultimate plan includes restoration and redemption for those who turn to Him.

The Temporal Nature of Earthly Wealth
Tyre's wealth and power could not save it from destruction. True security is found in God alone.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy against Tyre in Ezekiel 26:11 demonstrate God's sovereignty over nations and history?

2. In what ways can the downfall of Tyre serve as a warning against pride in our personal lives?

3. How does the fulfillment of prophecies like those in Ezekiel strengthen our faith in the reliability of Scripture?

4. What parallels can we draw between the judgment of Tyre and the warnings given to other nations or cities in the Bible?

5. How can we apply the lesson of Tyre's misplaced trust in wealth and power to our modern context, especially in light of Matthew 6:19-21?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 23
This chapter also prophesies the downfall of Tyre, emphasizing the temporary nature of human pride and wealth.

Jeremiah 27
Jeremiah speaks of the nations, including Tyre, that would serve Nebuchadnezzar, highlighting God's sovereignty over nations.

Revelation 18
The fall of Babylon in Revelation echoes the judgment on Tyre, symbolizing the ultimate downfall of worldly pride and opposition to God.