Ezekiel 27:7

Of embroidered fine linen from Egypt they made your sail, which served as your banner. Of blue and purple from the coasts of Elishah they made your awning.

Study Bible

Of embroidered fine linen from Egypt
The phrase "embroidered fine linen from Egypt" highlights the luxurious and high-quality materials used in the construction of Tyre's ships. In the ancient world, Egypt was renowned for its fine linen, which was often intricately embroidered. The Hebrew word for "embroidered" (רִקְמָה, rikmah) suggests a work of art, indicating the skill and craftsmanship involved. Linen from Egypt was a symbol of wealth and status, reflecting Tyre's prosperity and its extensive trade networks. This imagery underscores the opulence and grandeur of Tyre, a city known for its economic power and influence.

was your sail
The sail is a crucial component of a ship, representing movement and direction. In the context of Tyre, a major maritime power, the sail symbolizes the city's ability to navigate the seas and engage in trade. The use of fine linen for the sail not only emphasizes the city's wealth but also its strategic importance in commerce. The Hebrew word for "sail" (נֵס, nes) can also mean "banner" or "standard," suggesting that the sail served as a symbol of Tyre's identity and pride.

which served as your banner
The phrase "which served as your banner" indicates that the sail was not merely functional but also symbolic. In ancient times, banners were used to represent nations, tribes, or cities, often displaying emblems or colors that signified their identity. For Tyre, the sail as a banner signifies its dominance and prestige on the seas. The imagery of a banner also conveys the idea of proclamation and visibility, as Tyre's influence was widely recognized across the Mediterranean.

your awnings were of blue and purple
The colors "blue and purple" were associated with royalty, nobility, and wealth in the ancient Near East. These dyes were rare and expensive, often extracted from sea snails, making them a luxury item. The Hebrew words for blue (תְּכֵלֶת, tekhelet) and purple (אַרְגָּמָן, argaman) evoke images of splendor and majesty. The use of these colors for the awnings of Tyre's ships further emphasizes the city's affluence and its status as a leading maritime power.

from the coasts of Elishah
Elishah is believed to refer to a region or people associated with the Aegean Sea, possibly linked to Cyprus or parts of Greece. The mention of Elishah highlights Tyre's extensive trade connections and its ability to source materials from distant lands. This reflects the city's role as a hub of international commerce and cultural exchange. The reference to Elishah also underscores the interconnectedness of the ancient world, where goods, ideas, and influences flowed across regions, contributing to the richness and diversity of Tyre's economy and culture.

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 concerning Israel and other nations.

2. Tyre
An ancient and wealthy city-state located on the Mediterranean coast, known for its commerce and trade. Ezekiel 27 is a lamentation for Tyre, depicting its grandeur and eventual downfall.

3. Egypt
A powerful and influential nation in the ancient world, known for its fine linen and craftsmanship. In this verse, Egypt is noted for providing the embroidered linen used by Tyre.

4. Elishah
A region or people group mentioned in the Bible, possibly located in the area of modern-day Cyprus or Greece. Known for producing blue and purple dyes, which were highly valued in ancient times.

5. Sail and Awnings
Symbolic elements representing the wealth and splendor of Tyre. The sail made of fine linen and the awnings of blue and purple signify the city's opulence and its connections to various trade partners.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Pride and Materialism
Tyre's wealth and splendor led to its downfall. As Christians, we must guard against pride and placing our trust in material possessions, remembering that true security comes from God alone.

The Importance of Humility
The lamentation over Tyre serves as a reminder of the importance of humility. We should strive to live humbly before God, recognizing that all we have is a gift from Him.

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
The prophecy against Tyre demonstrates God's control over the nations. We can trust in His sovereignty and justice, knowing that He will ultimately bring about His purposes.

The Value of Righteousness Over Riches
While Tyre was rich in material goods, it lacked righteousness. As believers, we should prioritize spiritual wealth and seek to live lives that honor God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the description of Tyre's wealth in Ezekiel 27:7 reflect the city's priorities, and what can we learn from this about our own priorities?

2. In what ways does the fall of Tyre serve as a warning for modern societies that place a high value on material wealth and success?

3. How can we apply the lessons of humility and dependence on God from Ezekiel 27:7 in our daily lives?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure that our trust remains in God rather than in material possessions?

5. How does the theme of God's sovereignty in Ezekiel 27:7 encourage us to trust Him in the midst of global or personal uncertainties?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 23
This chapter also contains a prophecy against Tyre, highlighting its pride and eventual judgment by God. It provides a broader context for understanding Tyre's significance and its relationship with other nations.

Revelation 18
The fall of Babylon in Revelation echoes the themes of wealth, pride, and judgment found in Ezekiel 27. Both passages serve as warnings against placing trust in material riches and human achievements.

Proverbs 31:22
This verse mentions the use of fine linen and purple, similar to the materials described in Ezekiel 27:7. It highlights the value and significance of these materials in ancient times.