Ezekiel 27:35

All the people of the coastlands are appalled over you. Their kings shudder with fear; their faces are contorted.

Study Bible

All the inhabitants of the coastlands
This phrase refers to the people living in the regions along the Mediterranean Sea, which were heavily involved in trade and commerce during the time of Ezekiel. The Hebrew word for "coastlands" is "אִיִּים" (iyim), which can also mean "islands" or "distant lands." This indicates the far-reaching impact of Tyre's downfall, as Tyre was a major maritime power. The inhabitants of these regions would have been directly affected by the collapse of such a significant trading partner, leading to widespread economic and social repercussions.

are appalled over you
The Hebrew root for "appalled" is "שָׁמֵם" (shamem), which conveys a sense of desolation, horror, and astonishment. This reaction underscores the magnitude of Tyre's fall, as it was unexpected and devastating. The use of this word suggests a deep emotional response, highlighting the shock and awe experienced by those who witnessed or heard of Tyre's destruction. It serves as a reminder of the transient nature of human power and the ultimate sovereignty of God over nations.

Their kings shudder with horror
The phrase "shudder with horror" is derived from the Hebrew "חָרַד" (charad), which means to tremble or quake. This reaction from the kings of the coastlands signifies the fear and anxiety that gripped the rulers who had once allied or traded with Tyre. The fall of such a powerful city-state would have been a sobering reminder of their own vulnerability. In a broader theological context, this serves as a warning to all leaders about the dangers of pride and reliance on worldly power rather than on God.

their faces are contorted
The imagery of contorted faces conveys a visceral, physical reaction to the news of Tyre's downfall. The Hebrew word "חֲרָדוֹת" (charadot) implies a twisting or distortion, often associated with fear or anguish. This expression of intense emotion reflects the deep impact of Tyre's destruction on the psyche of those who had placed their trust in its stability and prosperity. It serves as a poignant illustration of the consequences of placing hope in temporal, earthly entities rather than in the eternal, unchanging nature of God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Inhabitants of the Coastlands
These are the people living in the regions along the Mediterranean Sea. They are witnesses to the downfall of Tyre and are deeply affected by it.

2. Kings
The rulers of these coastal regions who are struck with fear and horror at the sight of Tyre's destruction. Their reaction signifies the magnitude of Tyre's fall.

3. Tyre
A powerful and wealthy city-state known for its trade and commerce. Its downfall is a central theme in Ezekiel 27, symbolizing the judgment of God against pride and self-sufficiency.

4. Ezekiel
The prophet who delivers God's message of judgment against Tyre. His role is to convey the consequences of pride and idolatry.

5. Judgment
The event of Tyre's destruction serves as a divine judgment against its arrogance and reliance on wealth.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Pride
Tyre's downfall is a stark reminder of the dangers of pride and self-reliance. We must guard our hearts against elevating ourselves above God.

God's Sovereignty
The reaction of the kings and inhabitants underscores God's control over nations. We should trust in His sovereignty, even when worldly powers seem invincible.

The Impact of Judgment
The fear and horror experienced by the coastlands' inhabitants remind us that God's judgments are profound and far-reaching. We should live in a way that honors God and avoids His righteous judgment.

The Transience of Wealth
Tyre's wealth could not save it from destruction. We should focus on storing up treasures in heaven rather than relying on earthly riches.

Witnessing to God's Power
The reaction of the coastlands serves as a testimony to God's power. Our lives should reflect His glory and serve as a witness to others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the reaction of the coastlands' inhabitants to Tyre's fall challenge our understanding of security and stability in worldly things?

2. In what ways can we identify and address pride in our own lives to avoid the pitfalls that led to Tyre's downfall?

3. How does the theme of God's sovereignty in Ezekiel 27:35 encourage us to trust Him in the face of global or personal crises?

4. What parallels can we draw between the fall of Tyre and the warnings against materialism found in the New Testament, particularly in Revelation 18?

5. How can we use the account of Tyre's judgment to witness to others about the importance of humility and reliance on God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 23
This chapter also prophesies the fall of Tyre, emphasizing the theme of God's sovereignty over nations and their reliance on wealth.

Revelation 18
The fall of Babylon in Revelation parallels the fall of Tyre, highlighting the ultimate judgment against worldly pride and materialism.

Proverbs 16:18
This verse speaks to the theme of pride leading to destruction, which is evident in the downfall of Tyre.