Ezekiel 26:11

The hooves of his horses will trample all your streets. He will slaughter your people with the sword, and your mighty pillars will fall to the ground.

Study Bible

The hooves of his horses will trample all your streets.
This phrase refers to the impending invasion and destruction of Tyre by Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon. The imagery of horses trampling the streets signifies the thorough and overwhelming nature of the conquest. Historically, Tyre was a powerful and wealthy city-state known for its strong fortifications and strategic location on the Mediterranean coast. The prophecy highlights the inevitability of judgment against Tyre due to its pride and opposition to God’s people. The trampling of streets symbolizes the complete subjugation and humiliation of the city, as horses were often associated with military power and conquest in ancient times.

He will slaughter your people with the sword,
This phrase emphasizes the violence and loss of life that would accompany the Babylonian siege. The sword is a common biblical symbol for warfare and divine judgment. In the context of Ezekiel, this prophecy serves as a warning to Tyre and a demonstration of God’s sovereignty over nations. The historical context reveals that Nebuchadnezzar's campaign against Tyre lasted for many years, reflecting the intensity and persistence of the conflict. The slaughter of the people underscores the seriousness of the consequences of defying God’s will and the fulfillment of prophetic declarations.

and your mighty pillars will fall to the ground.
The "mighty pillars" likely refer to the physical and symbolic structures that represented Tyre's strength and stability. In ancient architecture, pillars were not only structural supports but also symbols of power and permanence. The fall of these pillars signifies the collapse of Tyre’s defenses and the end of its dominance. This imagery can also be seen as a metaphor for the downfall of human pride and reliance on worldly power. Theologically, it points to the ultimate futility of opposing God’s purposes. The destruction of Tyre serves as a type of the final judgment, where all human arrogance will be brought low before the sovereignty of God.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Tyre
An ancient and wealthy city located on the Mediterranean coast, known for its commerce and strong fortifications. It was a significant center of trade and culture.

3. Nebuchadnezzar
The king of Babylon, who was used by God as an instrument of judgment against Tyre and other nations.

4. Babylonian Conquest
The event where Nebuchadnezzar's forces besieged and eventually conquered Tyre, fulfilling the prophecy.

5. God's Judgment
The overarching theme of this passage, where God pronounces judgment on Tyre for its pride and opposition to His people.

Teaching Points

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

The Consequences of Pride
Tyre's downfall serves as a warning against pride and self-reliance. God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.

The Certainty of God's Word
Prophecies like those against Tyre demonstrate the reliability and truth of God's Word. What He declares will come to pass.

Judgment and Restoration
While God judges sin, His ultimate plan includes restoration and redemption for those who turn to Him.

The Temporal Nature of Earthly Wealth
Tyre's wealth and power could not save it from destruction. True security is found in God alone.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy against Tyre in Ezekiel 26:11 demonstrate God's sovereignty over nations and history?

2. In what ways can the downfall of Tyre serve as a warning against pride in our personal lives?

3. How does the fulfillment of prophecies like those in Ezekiel strengthen our faith in the reliability of Scripture?

4. What parallels can we draw between the judgment of Tyre and the warnings given to other nations or cities in the Bible?

5. How can we apply the lesson of Tyre's misplaced trust in wealth and power to our modern context, especially in light of Matthew 6:19-21?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 23
This chapter also prophesies the downfall of Tyre, emphasizing the temporary nature of human pride and wealth.

Jeremiah 27
Jeremiah speaks of the nations, including Tyre, that would serve Nebuchadnezzar, highlighting God's sovereignty over nations.

Revelation 18
The fall of Babylon in Revelation echoes the judgment on Tyre, symbolizing the ultimate downfall of worldly pride and opposition to God.