Ezekiel 29:18

"Son of man, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon caused his army to labor strenuously against Tyre. Every head was made bald and every shoulder made raw. But he and his army received no wages from Tyre for the labor they expended on it.

Study Bible

Son of man
This phrase is a frequent address to Ezekiel, emphasizing his humanity and role as a representative of the people. In Hebrew, "ben adam" underscores the prophet's connection to mankind, serving as a bridge between God and His people. It reminds us of the humility and responsibility inherent in being chosen to deliver God's messages.

Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon
Nebuchadnezzar II was a powerful ruler known for his military conquests and the expansion of the Babylonian Empire. Historically, he is recognized for his campaigns against various nations, including the siege of Tyre. His mention here highlights the geopolitical realities of the time and God's sovereignty over even the mightiest of earthly kings.

drove his army in a hard campaign against Tyre
The phrase describes the intense and prolonged military effort against the city of Tyre, a significant Phoenician city known for its wealth and fortifications. The Hebrew word for "hard" suggests a severe and grueling endeavor, reflecting the determination and persistence required in this siege, which lasted for many years.

every head was made bald and every shoulder rubbed bare
This vivid imagery conveys the physical toll of the campaign on Nebuchadnezzar's soldiers. "Bald" and "rubbed bare" symbolize exhaustion and weariness, as the soldiers endured harsh conditions. It serves as a metaphor for the sacrifices and struggles faced in the pursuit of worldly ambitions, reminding us of the cost of human endeavors without divine blessing.

Yet he and his army received no wages from Tyre
Despite their efforts, Nebuchadnezzar and his forces did not gain the expected rewards from their conquest. This outcome illustrates the futility of relying solely on human strength and ambition. It underscores a biblical principle that true reward and fulfillment come from aligning with God's purposes rather than pursuing material gain.

to pay for the labor he had expended on it
The phrase highlights the concept of recompense for labor, a theme prevalent throughout Scripture. In this context, it serves as a reminder that earthly efforts, no matter how strenuous, may not yield the anticipated results if they are not in accordance with God's will. It calls believers to seek divine guidance and trust in God's provision, knowing that He ultimately rewards faithfulness and obedience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God, called to deliver messages of judgment and hope to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile.

2. Nebuchadnezzar
The king of Babylon, known for his military campaigns and the conquest of Jerusalem. He is depicted as an instrument of God's judgment against Tyre.

3. Tyre
An ancient and wealthy city-state located on the Mediterranean coast, known for its commerce and fortifications. It was a target of Nebuchadnezzar's prolonged siege.

4. Babylon
The empire ruled by Nebuchadnezzar, which played a significant role in the history of Israel, particularly during the period of exile.

5. The Siege of Tyre
A historical event where Nebuchadnezzar's forces besieged the city of Tyre for many years, resulting in significant hardship for his army.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in World Events
God uses nations and leaders, even those who do not acknowledge Him, to fulfill His purposes. This reminds us of His ultimate control over history.

The Cost of Disobedience
Tyre's downfall serves as a warning against pride and disobedience to God. It illustrates the consequences of turning away from His commands.

The Reality of Unrewarded Labor
Nebuchadnezzar's unrewarded efforts against Tyre reflect the reality that earthly endeavors may not always yield expected rewards. This encourages believers to seek eternal rewards through faithful service to God.

Perseverance in Adversity
The hardships faced by Nebuchadnezzar's army highlight the importance of perseverance, even when immediate results are not visible. Believers are called to endure in faith, trusting God's timing.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Nebuchadnezzar's campaign against Tyre illustrate God's sovereignty over nations and leaders?

2. In what ways does the fall of Tyre serve as a warning to individuals and nations today?

3. How can believers find encouragement in the reality that earthly efforts may not always be rewarded as expected?

4. What lessons can we learn from Nebuchadnezzar's perseverance in his campaign, and how can these be applied to our spiritual journey?

5. How do the prophecies against Tyre in Ezekiel and Isaiah demonstrate the consistency of God's word and His faithfulness to fulfill His promises?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 27:6
This verse highlights how God used Nebuchadnezzar as His servant to execute judgment on various nations, including Tyre.

Isaiah 23
This chapter prophesies the fall of Tyre, emphasizing its pride and eventual downfall, which aligns with the events described in Ezekiel 29:18.

Ezekiel 26:7-14
Provides a detailed prophecy against Tyre, predicting its destruction by Nebuchadnezzar, which is fulfilled in the events of Ezekiel 29:18.