Ezekiel 28:9

Will you still say, 'I am a god,' in the presence of those who slay you? You will be only a man, not a god, in the hands of those who wound you.

Study Bible

Will you still say
This phrase challenges the arrogance and self-deception of the one being addressed. In the Hebrew text, the verb "say" (אָמַר, 'amar) implies a declaration or assertion. The rhetorical question underscores the futility of maintaining prideful claims in the face of impending judgment. Historically, this reflects the hubris of leaders who equated themselves with divine status, a common practice among ancient Near Eastern rulers.

‘I am a god,’
The claim "I am a god" is a direct affront to the monotheistic belief central to Israelite faith. The Hebrew word for god here is אֵל (el), which can denote a deity or divine being. This assertion of divinity by a mortal is a profound act of blasphemy, reflecting the pride and self-exaltation condemned throughout Scripture. It serves as a reminder of the first commandment, emphasizing the exclusivity of Yahweh as the one true God.

in the presence of those who slay you?
The phrase "in the presence of those who slay you" highlights the imminent and unavoidable nature of divine judgment. The Hebrew root for "slay" (הָרַג, harag) conveys the act of killing or destroying. This imagery evokes the reality that human pretensions of divinity are powerless against the sovereignty of God, who uses even human agents to execute His judgment.

You will be but a man
This statement serves as a humbling reminder of human mortality and limitations. The Hebrew word for "man" (אָדָם, adam) is a generic term for humanity, emphasizing the created nature of humans as opposed to the Creator. It echoes the biblical theme that all humans, regardless of status, are subject to God's authority and judgment.

not a god
The contrast "not a god" reinforces the distinction between the Creator and His creation. The Hebrew negation (לֹא, lo) is emphatic, underscoring the absolute impossibility of humans attaining divine status. This serves as a theological corrective against idolatry and self-deification, central themes in the prophetic literature.

in the hands of those who wound you
The phrase "in the hands of those who wound you" conveys the idea of being subject to the power and judgment of others. The Hebrew root for "wound" (חָלַל, chalal) can mean to pierce or defile, indicating a state of vulnerability and defeat. This imagery serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of pride and rebellion against God, illustrating the ultimate futility of human arrogance in the face of divine justice.

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, through whom God delivers messages of judgment and hope.

2. Prince of Tyre
The primary subject of this passage, representing the human ruler of the city of Tyre. He is rebuked for his pride and self-deification.

3. Tyre
An ancient and wealthy city-state located on the Mediterranean coast, known for its commerce and trade. It is often symbolic of human pride and materialism in the Bible.

4. God
The sovereign Lord who speaks through Ezekiel, challenging the arrogance of the Prince of Tyre and asserting His own supremacy.

5. Those who slay you
Refers to the invading forces or circumstances that will bring about the downfall of the Prince of Tyre, demonstrating his mortality and vulnerability.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Pride
Pride leads individuals to elevate themselves to a status they do not possess, often resulting in their downfall. Recognize the importance of humility before God.

The Illusion of Self-Sufficiency
The Prince of Tyre's claim to divinity is a stark reminder of the human tendency to rely on self rather than God. Acknowledge our dependence on God for all things.

God's Sovereignty
Despite human claims to power and divinity, God remains the ultimate authority. Trust in God's sovereignty over all aspects of life.

The Reality of Mortality
The passage underscores the truth that all humans are mortal and accountable to God. Live with an eternal perspective, mindful of our finite nature.

Repentance and Humility
The call to recognize one's humanity and repent from pride is crucial. Embrace a lifestyle of repentance and humility before God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the pride of the Prince of Tyre reflect common attitudes in today's society, and how can we guard against similar pride in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the account of Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel 4 parallel the message in Ezekiel 28:9, and what lessons can we learn from his experience?

3. How can we practically demonstrate humility in our daily interactions with others, and what role does prayer play in cultivating a humble heart?

4. What are some areas in your life where you might be tempted to rely on your own strength rather than God's sovereignty, and how can you shift your focus?

5. How does understanding our mortality and accountability to God influence the way we live, and how can this perspective impact our priorities and decisions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 14
This chapter contains a similar theme of pride and downfall, specifically regarding the King of Babylon, drawing a parallel to the hubris of the Prince of Tyre.

Daniel 4
The account of Nebuchadnezzar's pride and subsequent humbling by God serves as a account illustration of the principle that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.

James 4:6
This New Testament verse echoes the theme of God opposing the proud, reinforcing the timeless truth of humility before God.