Ezekiel 38:13

Sheba and Dedan and the merchants of Tarshish with all its villages will ask, 'Have you come to capture the plunder? Have you assembled your hordes to carry away loot, to make off with silver and gold, to take cattle and goods, to seize great spoil?'

Study Bible

Sheba and Dedan
These names refer to ancient regions and peoples located in the Arabian Peninsula. Sheba is often associated with the Sabeans, a wealthy trading nation known for their spices and gold, as seen in the account of the Queen of Sheba visiting Solomon (1 Kings 10:1-13). Dedan is linked to a trading community known for its caravans (Isaiah 21:13). The mention of these regions highlights the far-reaching impact of the events described in Ezekiel 38, suggesting a widespread recognition and concern over the impending conflict. Historically, these areas were known for their wealth and trade, which aligns with the theme of economic interest in the passage.

the merchants of Tarshish
Tarshish is often identified with a distant maritime location, possibly in the western Mediterranean, such as modern-day Spain. It was known for its wealth and trade, particularly in metals like silver and gold (Jeremiah 10:9). The merchants of Tarshish symbolize international trade and economic power. Their mention in this context suggests that the events in Ezekiel 38 have global economic implications, drawing the attention of powerful trading nations. This reflects the interconnectedness of ancient economies and the far-reaching consequences of geopolitical events.

with all its villages
The phrase "with all its villages" indicates the inclusion of smaller settlements or trading outposts associated with Tarshish. This suggests a comprehensive involvement of the entire trading network, not just the central hub. In a broader sense, it implies that the impending conflict will affect not only major powers but also smaller communities connected to them. This highlights the pervasive nature of the threat described in the prophecy, affecting all levels of society.

will ask you
The phrase "will ask you" introduces a rhetorical question, emphasizing the incredulity and concern of the nations witnessing the events. It suggests a demand for accountability and understanding of the motives behind the actions described. This questioning reflects the broader theme of divine justice and the moral implications of human actions, as seen throughout the prophetic literature.

‘Have you come to capture spoil?
This question directly addresses the motives of the invading forces, suggesting that their primary intent is plunder and economic gain. The focus on "spoil" aligns with the historical context of ancient warfare, where conquering armies often sought material wealth. This highlights the moral and ethical dimensions of the conflict, contrasting the greed and materialism of the invaders with the divine justice proclaimed by the prophets.

Have you assembled your hordes to loot
The term "hordes" implies a large, organized military force, emphasizing the scale and threat of the invasion. The focus on "loot" reinforces the theme of economic exploitation and greed. This reflects the historical reality of ancient empires, which often expanded through conquest and plunder. The prophetic message challenges this worldview, calling for a recognition of divine sovereignty and justice.

to carry away silver and gold
Silver and gold represent wealth and economic power, highlighting the materialistic motives of the invaders. In the ancient world, these metals were symbols of prosperity and status. The emphasis on "carrying away" suggests a forceful and unjust appropriation of resources, contrasting with the biblical ideal of stewardship and justice.

to take away livestock and goods
Livestock and goods represent the basic economic resources and livelihoods of the people. The mention of these items underscores the comprehensive nature of the plunder, affecting not only wealth but also the means of sustenance and survival. This highlights the devastating impact of the invasion on ordinary people, emphasizing the need for divine intervention and justice.

to seize great spoil?
The phrase "seize great spoil" encapsulates the overarching theme of greed and exploitation. The focus on "great spoil" suggests an excessive and unjust accumulation of wealth, reflecting the moral corruption of the invaders. This serves as a warning against the dangers of materialism and the pursuit of wealth at the expense of justice and righteousness, a recurring theme in the prophetic literature.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Sheba and Dedan
These are ancient regions often associated with trade and wealth. Sheba is traditionally linked to the Arabian Peninsula, while Dedan is thought to be in the northwestern part of modern-day Saudi Arabia.

2. Merchants of Tarshish
Tarshish is believed to be a distant trading partner, possibly located in the western Mediterranean. The merchants symbolize international trade and commerce.

3. Villages
The term "villages" here can also be translated as "young lions" in some versions, indicating smaller, dependent entities or nations allied with Tarshish.

4. Spoil and Plunder
The passage speaks of an invasion motivated by greed, aiming to seize wealth and resources.

5. Hordes
Refers to the invading armies gathered for the purpose of plundering.

Teaching Points

Understanding Prophetic Context
Recognize the symbolic nature of the nations and merchants in Ezekiel's prophecy, representing broader themes of materialism and greed.

The Dangers of Materialism
Reflect on how the pursuit of wealth can lead to moral and spiritual decay, as seen in the motivations of the invaders.

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
Trust in God's ultimate control over world events, even when nations rise and fall for material gain.

The Role of Witness
Consider how believers are called to be witnesses in a world driven by materialism, offering a different perspective rooted in eternal values.

Preparation for Spiritual Battle
Equip oneself with spiritual discernment to recognize and resist the temptations of greed and materialism.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the regions of Sheba, Dedan, and Tarshish reflect the economic and political dynamics of Ezekiel's time, and what can we learn from them today?

2. In what ways does the pursuit of "spoil and plunder" manifest in modern society, and how can Christians guard against these temptations?

3. How does the prophecy in Ezekiel 38:13 relate to the broader account of God's sovereignty over nations throughout the Bible?

4. What parallels can be drawn between the merchants of Tarshish and the merchants lamenting in Revelation 18, and what lessons can we apply to our lives?

5. How can we, as Christians, be effective witnesses in a world that often prioritizes material wealth over spiritual values?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 10:7
This passage lists the descendants of Cush, including Sheba and Dedan, providing a genealogical context for these regions.

1 Kings 10:22
Describes the wealth and trade of Solomon, including ships of Tarshish, highlighting the historical significance of these trading routes.

Revelation 18:11-13
Discusses the fall of Babylon and the lament of merchants, drawing a parallel to the economic motivations and consequences of greed.