Ezekiel 28:7

behold, I will bring foreigners against you, the most ruthless of nations. They will draw their swords against the beauty of your wisdom and will defile your splendor.

Study Bible

behold
The word "behold" is often used in Scripture to draw attention to something significant or to introduce a divine pronouncement. In Hebrew, the word is "הִנֵּה" (hinneh), which serves as a call to the listener to pay close attention. It emphasizes the certainty and importance of what follows, indicating that God's actions are imminent and assured.

I will bring
This phrase underscores God's sovereignty and active role in the unfolding events. The Hebrew verb "בּוֹא" (bo) conveys the idea of causing something to happen or bringing something to pass. It reflects God's direct intervention in human affairs, reminding us that He is the ultimate orchestrator of history.

strangers
The term "strangers" refers to foreign nations or peoples who are not part of Israel. In the context of Ezekiel, these strangers are often seen as instruments of God's judgment. The Hebrew word "זָרִים" (zarim) can imply those who are alien or unfamiliar, highlighting the impending threat from outside forces that God will use to execute His judgment.

against you
This phrase indicates the direction of the impending action. The use of "against" signifies opposition and confrontation. It is a reminder of the consequences of pride and rebellion against God, as the judgment is directed specifically towards those who have turned away from Him.

the most ruthless of the nations
This description emphasizes the severity of the judgment. The Hebrew word "עַרִיצֵי" (aritzim) translates to "ruthless" or "terrible," indicating a fierce and merciless nature. Historically, this could refer to the Babylonians, known for their military prowess and harsh conquests. It serves as a warning of the formidable nature of God's chosen instruments of judgment.

they will draw their swords
The imagery of drawing swords signifies preparation for battle and impending violence. The sword is a common biblical symbol of warfare and judgment. This phrase highlights the seriousness of the threat and the reality of the coming destruction, serving as a metaphor for divine retribution.

against the beauty of your wisdom
This phrase contrasts the perceived wisdom and splendor of the subject with the impending judgment. The Hebrew word for "beauty" is "יֹפִי" (yofi), which can also mean "glory" or "splendor." It suggests that what was once admired and esteemed will be targeted and dismantled, illustrating the futility of human pride and self-reliance apart from God.

and will defile your splendor
The act of defiling indicates a profound desecration or corruption. The Hebrew word "חִלֵּל" (chillel) means to profane or pollute. This phrase signifies the complete reversal of fortune, where what was once glorious and revered will be brought to shame and ruin. It serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's ways and the inevitable downfall of those who exalt themselves above Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who ministered to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. He conveyed God's messages of judgment and restoration.

2. Tyre
An ancient and wealthy city-state located on the Mediterranean coast, known for its commerce and pride. It is the subject of God's judgment in this passage.

3. Strangers
Refers to foreign nations or invaders, specifically the Babylonians, who were used by God as instruments of judgment against Tyre.

4. The Most Ruthless of the Nations
This phrase describes the Babylonians, known for their military might and harshness in conquest.

5. The Beauty of Your Wisdom and Splendor
Symbolizes Tyre's pride in its wealth, wisdom, and achievements, which would be defiled by the coming judgment.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God is in control of all nations and uses them to fulfill His purposes, even when they are unaware of it.

The Danger of Pride
Pride in one's achievements and wisdom can lead to downfall. We must remain humble and recognize our dependence on God.

Judgment as a Means of Correction
God's judgments are not arbitrary but serve as a call to repentance and correction for those who stray from His ways.

The Temporary Nature of Earthly Splendor
Earthly wealth and wisdom are fleeting and can be easily defiled or destroyed. Our focus should be on eternal values.

God's Use of Unlikely Instruments
God can use even the most unlikely or ruthless people to accomplish His will, reminding us that His ways are higher than ours.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the judgment on Tyre in Ezekiel 28:7 reflect God's sovereignty over nations, and what does this teach us about His control in today's world?

2. In what ways can pride manifest in our personal lives, and how can we guard against it in light of the warning given to Tyre?

3. How does the use of "strangers" or foreign nations as instruments of judgment challenge our understanding of God's methods and purposes?

4. What are some modern parallels to the "beauty of wisdom and splendor" that people take pride in today, and how can we ensure our focus remains on eternal values?

5. How can the themes of judgment and correction in Ezekiel 28:7 encourage us to seek repentance and align our lives with God's will?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 23
This chapter also prophesies the downfall of Tyre, emphasizing the theme of God's sovereignty over nations and their pride.

Jeremiah 25:9
Describes how God uses foreign nations, like Babylon, as His instruments of judgment, similar to the role they play in Ezekiel 28:7.

Proverbs 16:18
Highlights the principle that pride precedes destruction, a theme evident in the judgment pronounced on Tyre.

Revelation 18
The fall of Babylon in Revelation echoes the judgment on Tyre, illustrating the ultimate downfall of prideful and sinful systems.