Ezekiel 26:20

then I will bring you down with those who descend to the Pit, to the people of antiquity. I will make you dwell in the earth below like the ancient ruins, with those who descend to the Pit, so that you will no longer be inhabited or set in splendor in the land of the living.

Study Bible

then I will bring you down
This phrase signifies a divine action of humbling or judgment. The Hebrew root "yarad" often implies a descent, not just physically but also in status or condition. In the context of Ezekiel, this is a prophetic declaration against Tyre, a city known for its pride and wealth. The imagery of being brought down is a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty over nations and His ability to humble the proud.

with those who descend to the Pit
The "Pit" (Hebrew: "bor") is often associated with Sheol, the abode of the dead. This phrase suggests a fate similar to those who have already faced judgment and death. It underscores the finality and seriousness of God's judgment, aligning Tyre's fate with those who have been judged before, emphasizing the inevitability of divine justice.

to the people of antiquity
This refers to the ancient peoples who have already perished. The mention of "antiquity" connects Tyre's impending judgment to the historical reality of past civilizations that have fallen. It serves as a sobering reminder that no matter how powerful or enduring a nation may seem, it is not immune to the consequences of sin and rebellion against God.

I will make you dwell in the lower parts of the earth
The "lower parts of the earth" is a metaphorical expression for the grave or the realm of the dead. It conveys a sense of being cut off from the land of the living, a place of darkness and separation from God's presence. This phrase highlights the depth of the judgment and the complete removal from the blessings of life.

like the ancient ruins
This comparison to "ancient ruins" evokes imagery of desolation and abandonment. Ruins are remnants of what once was, serving as a testament to the passage of time and the consequences of divine judgment. It is a stark reminder of the transient nature of human achievements when they are not aligned with God's purposes.

with those who descend to the Pit
The repetition of this phrase reinforces the certainty and severity of the judgment. It serves to emphasize the finality of Tyre's fate, aligning it with those who have already faced God's wrath. This repetition is a literary device to ensure the message is clear and unambiguous.

so that you will no longer be inhabited
This phrase indicates a complete and utter desolation. The Hebrew word "yashab" means to dwell or inhabit, and its negation here signifies the end of Tyre as a thriving city. It is a prophetic declaration of the city's total destruction, leaving it uninhabited and barren.

or set in splendor in the land of the living
The "land of the living" refers to the world of the living, as opposed to the realm of the dead. The phrase "set in splendor" suggests a position of honor or prominence. The prophecy declares that Tyre will no longer hold a place of splendor or significance among the living, highlighting the complete reversal of its fortunes due to divine judgment.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Tyre
An ancient and wealthy city-state located on the Mediterranean coast, known for its commerce and pride. It was a significant trading hub in the ancient world.

3. The Pit
A metaphorical term often used in the Bible to describe Sheol or the grave, representing death and the realm of the dead.

4. People of Antiquity
Refers to those who have died and are in the realm of the dead, emphasizing the finality and permanence of Tyre's judgment.

5. Lower Parts of the Earth
Symbolic of the grave or Sheol, indicating a place of death and separation from the living.

Teaching Points

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 Judgment
God's pronouncement against Tyre demonstrates His sovereignty and the certainty of His judgments. No nation or city is beyond His reach.

The Reality of Death and the Afterlife
The imagery of the Pit and the lower parts of the earth reminds us of the reality of death and the importance of being right with God.

The Transience of Earthly Wealth and Power
Tyre's wealth and influence could not save it from destruction. We are reminded to store up treasures in heaven rather than on earth.

Hope in God's Restoration
While this passage focuses on judgment, Ezekiel's broader message includes hope and restoration for those who turn to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the fate of Tyre in Ezekiel 26:20 serve as a warning for individuals and nations today?

2. In what ways does the imagery of the Pit and the lower parts of the earth challenge our understanding of life and death?

3. How can we guard against the pride and self-reliance that led to Tyre's downfall?

4. What parallels can we draw between the judgment of Tyre and the fall of Babylon in Revelation 18?

5. How does the certainty of God's judgment influence the way we live our daily lives and interact with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 14
This chapter also speaks of the downfall of a proud city, Babylon, and its descent into Sheol, drawing a parallel to Tyre's fate.

Revelation 18
The fall of Babylon the Great in Revelation echoes the judgment on Tyre, highlighting themes of pride, commerce, and divine retribution.

Psalm 88
This psalm uses similar language about the "Pit" and the "land of the dead," providing a poetic reflection on the themes of death and separation from God.