Ezekiel 26:4

They will destroy the walls of Tyre and demolish her towers. I will scrape the soil from her and make her a bare rock.

Study Bible

They will destroy
The phrase "they will destroy" indicates a future action carried out by an unspecified group. In the historical context, this refers to the Babylonians under King Nebuchadnezzar, who were instruments of God's judgment against Tyre. The Hebrew root for "destroy" is "shachat," which conveys a sense of ruin and devastation. This reflects the comprehensive nature of God's judgment, emphasizing that no human structure can withstand His will when He decides to act against it.

the walls of Tyre
The "walls of Tyre" symbolize the city's strength and security. Tyre was a fortified city, renowned for its impressive defenses. Archaeological evidence supports the existence of massive walls that protected the city. In a spiritual sense, the walls represent human pride and self-reliance, which God opposes. The destruction of these walls signifies the futility of relying on worldly defenses against divine judgment.

and demolish her towers
"Towers" were strategic structures used for defense and observation. The Hebrew word "migdal" suggests a place of height and strength. Historically, Tyre's towers were part of its formidable defense system. The demolition of these towers signifies the complete overthrow of human power and the dismantling of what is perceived as unassailable. Spiritually, it serves as a reminder that no human achievement can stand against God's purposes.

I will scrape the soil from her
The imagery of scraping the soil conveys thoroughness and totality. The Hebrew verb "garar" implies a sweeping away or removal. This action by God indicates not just a physical destruction but a cleansing, removing all traces of the city's former glory. It serves as a metaphor for divine purification, where God removes sin and pride, leaving nothing but a clean slate.

and make her a bare rock
The phrase "a bare rock" paints a picture of desolation and emptiness. Tyre, once a thriving hub of commerce and culture, is reduced to a barren, lifeless state. The Hebrew word "tsur" for rock emphasizes solidity and permanence, yet here it is stripped of all life. This transformation serves as a powerful symbol of God's ability to humble the proud and reduce the mighty to nothing. It is a call to humility and recognition of God's sovereignty over all creation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who ministered to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. He is known for his vivid visions and symbolic actions.

2. Tyre
An ancient and wealthy Phoenician city located on the Mediterranean coast, known for its trade and strong fortifications.

3. Nebuchadnezzar
The Babylonian king who besieged and eventually destroyed Tyre, fulfilling the prophecy given by Ezekiel.

4. Babylonian Exile
The period when the Israelites were taken captive by Babylon, during which Ezekiel prophesied.

5. God's Judgment
The divine decree against Tyre for its pride and opposition to Israel, as conveyed through Ezekiel.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
The prophecy against Tyre demonstrates God's control over the rise and fall of nations. Believers can trust in God's ultimate authority and plan, even when worldly powers seem dominant.

The Danger of Pride
Tyre's downfall serves as a warning against pride and self-reliance. Christians are called to humility, recognizing that all blessings and successes come from God.

The Certainty of God's Word
The fulfillment of Ezekiel's prophecy against Tyre underscores the reliability of God's Word. Believers are encouraged to trust in the promises and warnings found in Scripture.

Judgment and Redemption
While God's judgment is certain, His ultimate desire is for repentance and redemption. This calls Christians to share the message of salvation and hope in Christ.

The Importance of Repentance
Tyre's fate highlights the need for repentance. Believers are reminded to examine their lives and turn away from sin, seeking God's forgiveness and grace.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy against Tyre in Ezekiel 26:4 illustrate God's sovereignty over human history?

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

3. How does the fulfillment of biblical prophecies, such as the one against Tyre, strengthen your faith in the reliability of Scripture?

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

5. How can the themes of judgment and redemption in Ezekiel 26:4 inspire you to share the gospel message with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 23
This chapter also prophesies the downfall of Tyre, emphasizing the theme of God's judgment against pride and self-reliance.

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

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