The title "King of Tyre" refers to the monarchs who ruled over the ancient Phoenician city-state of Tyre, a significant maritime and commercial hub located on the Mediterranean coast in what is now modern-day Lebanon. Tyre is frequently mentioned in the Bible, and its kings played notable roles in the historical and prophetic narratives of the Scriptures.

Hiram, King of Tyre

One of the most prominent kings of Tyre mentioned in the Bible is Hiram, who reigned during the time of King David and King Solomon of Israel. Hiram is noted for his friendly relations with both kings, particularly Solomon, with whom he established a significant alliance. This relationship is detailed in 1 Kings 5:1-12 and 2 Chronicles 2:3-16, where Hiram provides materials and skilled laborers for the construction of Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem. The Berean Standard Bible states in 1 Kings 5:1, "Now when Hiram king of Tyre heard that Solomon had been anointed king to succeed his father David, he sent envoys to Solomon, because Hiram had always been a friend of David."

Hiram's cooperation with Solomon extended beyond the temple project, as they also engaged in joint maritime ventures, enhancing trade and wealth for both kingdoms (1 Kings 9:26-28). This alliance exemplifies the peaceful and mutually beneficial relationships that could exist between Israel and its neighboring states.

Prophecies Against the Kings of Tyre

The Bible also contains several prophecies against the kings of Tyre, reflecting the city's pride and eventual downfall. The prophet Ezekiel delivers a series of oracles against Tyre and its king, lamenting their arrogance and predicting their destruction. In Ezekiel 28:2, the BSB records, "Son of man, say to the ruler of Tyre, ‘This is what the Lord GOD says: Your heart is proud, and you have said, “I am a god; I sit in the seat of gods in the heart of the sea.” Yet you are a man and not a god, though you have regarded your heart as that of a god."

Ezekiel's prophecy continues with a vivid description of the king's downfall, emphasizing the judgment of God against human pride and self-deification. The lamentation over the king of Tyre in Ezekiel 28:12-19 is often interpreted as a dual prophecy, addressing both the historical king and serving as a typological reference to the fall of Satan, due to the exalted language used to describe the king's former glory and subsequent ruin.

Historical Context and Influence

The kings of Tyre, including those not explicitly named in the Bible, were influential figures in the ancient Near East. Tyre's strategic location and its mastery of maritime trade allowed its kings to amass great wealth and exert considerable influence over the region. The city's prosperity and the pride of its rulers are recurring themes in biblical texts, serving as a backdrop for the prophetic messages concerning divine judgment and the transient nature of human power.

The interactions between the kings of Tyre and the Israelites highlight the complex relationships between Israel and its neighbors, characterized by periods of cooperation, conflict, and prophetic admonition. The biblical portrayal of the kings of Tyre serves as a reminder of the sovereignty of God over all nations and the ultimate accountability of rulers to divine authority.