Ezekiel 26:15

This is what the Lord GOD says to Tyre: 'Will not the coastlands quake at the sound of your downfall, when the wounded groan at the slaughter in your midst?

Study Bible

This is what the Lord GOD says to Tyre:
This phrase introduces a divine pronouncement against Tyre, a significant city-state in ancient Phoenicia. Tyre was known for its wealth, trade, and strategic location on the Mediterranean coast. The phrase emphasizes the authority of God in delivering judgment, highlighting His sovereignty over nations. Tyre's pride and reliance on its economic power are key themes in the prophetic messages against it.

Will not the coastlands quake at the sound of your downfall:
The "coastlands" refer to the surrounding regions and nations that engaged in trade with Tyre. The imagery of quaking suggests a profound impact on these areas due to Tyre's fall. This phrase underscores the interconnectedness of ancient economies and the ripple effect of Tyre's destruction. The prophecy indicates that Tyre's downfall would be so significant that it would cause fear and instability among neighboring regions.

when the wounded groan at the slaughter in your midst?
This part of the verse paints a vivid picture of the devastation within Tyre. The "wounded groan" signifies the suffering and lamentation of those affected by the city's destruction. Historically, Tyre faced sieges and attacks, notably by Nebuchadnezzar II of Babylon and later by Alexander the Great. The phrase captures the human cost of divine judgment and serves as a warning against pride and self-reliance. The imagery of slaughter also connects to other biblical themes of judgment and the consequences of sin, as seen in the broader prophetic literature.

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 Phoenician city known for its trade and fortifications. It was located on the Mediterranean coast and was a significant maritime power.

3. The Lord GOD
The sovereign and covenant-keeping God of Israel, who speaks through His prophet Ezekiel.

4. The Coastlands
Refers to the surrounding regions and nations that would be affected by Tyre's downfall. These areas were likely involved in trade with Tyre and would feel the impact of its destruction.

5. The Downfall of Tyre
A prophesied event where Tyre would face destruction and judgment due to its pride and opposition to God’s people.

Teaching Points

The Sovereignty of God
God is in control of nations and their destinies. Tyre's downfall serves as a reminder that no power is beyond God's reach.

The Consequences of Pride
Tyre's wealth and pride led to its downfall. Believers are warned against the dangers of pride and self-reliance.

Impact of Sin on Others
The coastlands trembling at Tyre's downfall illustrates how sin and judgment can have far-reaching effects on others.

God's Justice
The judgment on Tyre demonstrates God's commitment to justice and righteousness, holding nations accountable for their actions.

Hope in God's Restoration
While judgment is certain, God's ultimate plan includes restoration and redemption for those who turn to Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy against Tyre in Ezekiel 26:15 reflect God's sovereignty over nations, and how can this understanding impact our view of current world events?

2. In what ways does the downfall of Tyre serve as a warning against pride and self-reliance in our personal lives?

3. How can the trembling of the coastlands at Tyre's downfall be seen as a metaphor for the broader impact of sin and judgment? Can you think of modern examples where the consequences of sin have affected communities or nations?

4. Compare the judgment of Tyre with the fall of Babylon in Revelation 18. What similarities do you see, and what lessons can we learn about the fate of worldly powers?

5. How can believers find hope in God's justice and restoration, even when facing personal or communal challenges that seem overwhelming?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 23
This chapter also prophesies the downfall of Tyre, emphasizing its pride and the judgment that would come upon it.

Jeremiah 25:22
Mentions Tyre among the nations that would drink from the cup of God's wrath, indicating its inclusion in the broader judgment against nations.

Revelation 18
The fall of Babylon in Revelation echoes the themes of judgment against prideful and wealthy cities like Tyre, drawing a parallel to the ultimate downfall of worldly powers.