Ezekiel 27:34

Now you are shattered by the seas in the depths of the waters; your merchandise and the people among you have gone down with you.

Study Bible

Now you are shattered
This phrase speaks to the complete destruction and downfall of Tyre, a powerful and wealthy city-state known for its trade and commerce. The Hebrew word used here is "שָׁבוּר" (shavur), which conveys a sense of being broken or crushed. Historically, Tyre was a significant maritime power, and its fall would have been seen as a monumental event. The imagery of being shattered suggests not just a physical destruction but also a loss of influence and prestige. In a spiritual sense, this serves as a warning against pride and reliance on material wealth, reminding believers of the transient nature of earthly power.

by the seas
The seas here symbolize the very source of Tyre's wealth and power, as the city was renowned for its maritime trade. The Hebrew word "בַּיָּמִים" (bayamim) indicates the vast and tumultuous nature of the seas, which were both a blessing and a curse for Tyre. The seas, once a source of prosperity, become an instrument of judgment. This reflects the biblical theme that what one relies on apart from God can become a source of downfall. It serves as a reminder of the sovereignty of God over creation and the futility of trusting in worldly resources.

in the depths of the waters
This phrase emphasizes the extent of Tyre's destruction, as it is not merely on the surface but in the "מַעֲמַקֵּי מַיִם" (ma'amaqqei mayim), the depths of the waters. The depths often symbolize chaos and judgment in biblical literature, as seen in the Genesis flood narrative. The imagery here is of being overwhelmed and consumed, highlighting the totality of the judgment against Tyre. For believers, it serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the depth of His judgments.

your merchandise and the people
Tyre's identity and wealth were tied to its "סְחָרָה" (secharah), merchandise, and its people. The loss of both signifies the complete economic and social collapse of the city. The mention of merchandise underscores the materialism and commercialism that defined Tyre, while the loss of people points to the human cost of its downfall. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of prioritizing economic gain over spiritual and moral values. It challenges believers to consider what they value most and to ensure that their lives are aligned with God's purposes.

have gone down with you
The phrase "יָרְדוּ אִתָּךְ" (yardu ittach) indicates a shared fate between Tyre, its merchandise, and its people. The use of "gone down" suggests a descent into ruin and oblivion. This highlights the interconnectedness of a society's values and its ultimate destiny. For the Christian, it is a call to reflect on the collective direction of one's community and the importance of grounding it in righteousness and faithfulness to God. It serves as a reminder that the choices of individuals and societies have lasting consequences, both materially and spiritually.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Tyre
An ancient and wealthy city-state located on the Mediterranean coast, known for its trade and commerce. In Ezekiel 27, Tyre is depicted as a magnificent ship that ultimately meets destruction.

2. The Seas
Symbolic of chaos and destruction in biblical literature. In this context, the seas represent the forces that bring about Tyre's downfall.

3. Merchants and Mariners
The people involved in Tyre's trade, representing the city's economic strength and its reliance on commerce.

4. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who delivers messages of judgment and hope to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile.

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

Teaching Points

The Fleeting Nature of Earthly Wealth
Tyre's destruction serves as a reminder that material wealth and human achievements are temporary and can be lost in an instant.

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
The fall of Tyre illustrates God's control over the rise and fall of nations, emphasizing His ultimate authority.

The Danger of Pride and Self-Reliance
Tyre's confidence in its wealth and trade led to its downfall, warning against pride and reliance on human strength rather than God.

The Call to Trust in God Alone
In times of uncertainty and chaos, believers are encouraged to place their trust in God, who is sovereign over all circumstances.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of Tyre as a ship shattered by the seas help us understand the nature of God's judgment?

2. In what ways can the account of Tyre's downfall serve as a warning to modern societies that prioritize wealth and commerce?

3. How does the theme of God's sovereignty in Ezekiel 27:34 relate to other biblical passages that discuss God's control over nations?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure that our trust is in God rather than in material possessions or human achievements?

5. How can the lessons from Tyre's destruction encourage us to live with an eternal perspective, focusing on God's kingdom rather than earthly success?

Connections to Other Scriptures

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

Revelation 18
The fall of Babylon in Revelation parallels the fall of Tyre, symbolizing the ultimate judgment on worldly systems that oppose God.

Psalm 107:23-30
Describes the power of God over the seas, highlighting His control over chaos and destruction.