Ezekiel 27:36

Those who trade among the nations hiss at you; you have come to a horrible end and will be no more.'"

Study Bible

The merchants among the nations
This phrase highlights the extensive trade network that Tyre had established. In the ancient Near East, Tyre was renowned for its commercial prowess and maritime dominance. The Hebrew word for "merchants" (סֹחֲרִים, socharim) indicates traders or those who engage in commerce. Historically, Tyre was a hub of economic activity, connecting various cultures and economies. This phrase underscores the city's influence and the widespread impact of its eventual downfall, as prophesied by Ezekiel.

hiss at you
The act of hissing in ancient cultures often symbolized derision or scorn. The Hebrew root word (שָׁרַק, sharaq) can mean to whistle or hiss, often used in contexts of mockery or astonishment at a downfall. This imagery conveys the shock and disdain of other nations witnessing Tyre's demise. It serves as a powerful reminder of the fleeting nature of worldly power and the consequences of pride and sin.

You have come to a horrible end
This phrase captures the finality and severity of Tyre's destruction. The Hebrew word for "horrible" (בַּלָּהוֹת, ballahot) suggests terror or horror, emphasizing the catastrophic nature of the city's fall. Historically, Tyre's end was marked by conquest and ruin, fulfilling the prophetic warnings. This serves as a sobering lesson on the judgment that befalls those who turn away from God.

and will be no more
The phrase signifies the complete obliteration of Tyre's influence and existence as a powerful city-state. The Hebrew expression (וְאֵינֶנָּה, ve'enennah) indicates a state of non-existence or disappearance. This prophetic declaration underscores the totality of God's judgment and the ultimate futility of human pride and reliance on material wealth. It serves as a call to humility and dependence on God, who alone is eternal and unchanging.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who ministered to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. He is the author of the book of Ezekiel, which contains prophecies and visions given by God.

2. Tyre
An ancient and wealthy city-state located on the Mediterranean coast, known for its trade and commerce. Tyre is the subject of Ezekiel's lamentation in chapter 27, symbolizing pride and eventual downfall.

3. Traders among the nations
These are the merchants and traders from various nations who engaged in commerce with Tyre. Their reaction to Tyre's downfall is one of astonishment and derision.

4. Nations
Refers to the various peoples and kingdoms that interacted with Tyre through trade. They witness Tyre's demise and respond with hissing, a sign of scorn and derision.

5. Horrible end
This phrase signifies the complete and devastating destruction of Tyre, marking the end of its prosperity and influence.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Pride
Tyre's downfall serves as a warning against the dangers of pride and self-reliance. Believers are encouraged to remain humble and dependent on God rather than their own achievements or wealth.

The Fleeting Nature of Worldly Wealth
The destruction of Tyre illustrates the temporary nature of material wealth and success. Christians are reminded to store up treasures in heaven rather than on earth.

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 justice.

Witnessing to the World
The reaction of the nations to Tyre's fall highlights the importance of maintaining a godly witness. Christians should strive to reflect Christ in their interactions with the world.

Repentance and Restoration
While Tyre faced judgment, the broader biblical account offers hope of repentance and restoration through Christ. Believers are called to seek forgiveness and transformation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the downfall of Tyre in Ezekiel 27:36 serve as a warning against pride in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our trust is in God rather than in material wealth or success?

3. How does the reaction of the nations to Tyre's destruction challenge us to maintain a godly witness in our communities?

4. What parallels can we draw between the fall of Tyre and the fall of Babylon in Revelation 18, and how do these parallels apply to modern society?

5. How can we apply the themes of repentance and restoration found in the broader context of Ezekiel to our personal spiritual journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 23
This chapter also contains a prophecy against Tyre, highlighting its pride and eventual downfall, similar to Ezekiel's lamentation.

Revelation 18
The fall of Babylon in Revelation echoes the themes of pride, wealth, and sudden destruction found in Ezekiel 27, drawing a parallel between Tyre and Babylon as symbols of worldly arrogance and materialism.

Proverbs 16:18
This verse speaks to the theme of pride leading to destruction, which is evident in the downfall of Tyre as described in Ezekiel 27.