Ezekiel 26:17

Then they will lament for you, saying, "How you have perished, O city of renown inhabited by seafaring men--she who was powerful on the sea, along with her people, who imposed terror on all peoples!

Study Bible

Then they will lament for you, saying,
This phrase introduces a lamentation, a common biblical form of expressing sorrow or mourning. Lamentations are often used in the Bible to express grief over the fall of cities or nations, as seen in the Book of Lamentations regarding Jerusalem. The lament here is directed towards Tyre, a significant city in ancient times. The use of lamentation signifies the gravity of Tyre's downfall and the impact it had on surrounding nations.

“How you have perished,
The word "perished" indicates total destruction. Tyre's fall was prophesied by Ezekiel and fulfilled through historical events, notably the sieges by Nebuchadnezzar and later by Alexander the Great. This phrase underscores the completeness of Tyre's destruction, which was once thought improbable due to its strong defenses and strategic location.

O city of renown
Tyre was famous for its wealth, trade, and influence. It was a major Phoenician city known for its production of purple dye and maritime prowess. The city's renown is highlighted here to emphasize the shock and significance of its downfall. Tyre's reputation is also mentioned in other scriptures, such as Isaiah 23, which speaks of its pride and eventual judgment.

inhabited by seafaring men—
The inhabitants of Tyre were known for their skills in navigation and trade across the Mediterranean. This phrase highlights the city's identity as a maritime power. The Phoenicians, of whom the Tyrians were a part, were renowned for their shipbuilding and exploration, which contributed to their economic strength and cultural influence.

she who was powerful on the sea,
Tyre's power was largely derived from its control of sea trade routes. The city's strategic location on the coast allowed it to dominate maritime commerce. This phrase reflects Tyre's economic and military strength, which was largely based on its naval capabilities. The sea was both a source of wealth and a means of defense for Tyre.

along with her people,
The people of Tyre were integral to its success and reputation. This phrase acknowledges the collective identity and efforts of Tyre's inhabitants in building and maintaining the city's power. The mention of the people also serves to humanize the lament, as it is not just the city but its citizens who suffer the consequences of its fall.

who imposed terror on all peoples!
Tyre's influence and power were such that it could impose its will on other nations, often through economic dominance or military might. This phrase suggests that Tyre was feared by other nations, which adds to the irony and poignancy of its downfall. The city's ability to impose terror is contrasted with its ultimate destruction, serving as a reminder of the transient nature of earthly power. This theme is echoed in other biblical prophecies, such as those against Babylon and Egypt, where once-mighty powers are brought low.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who ministered to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. He conveyed God's messages, including prophecies of judgment and restoration.

2. Tyre
An ancient and prosperous Phoenician city known for its strong maritime trade and influence. It was renowned for its wealth and strategic location on the Mediterranean Sea.

3. Seafaring Men
The inhabitants of Tyre, known for their skills in navigation and trade across the Mediterranean, contributing to the city's wealth and power.

4. Lament
A traditional expression of mourning or sorrow, often used in the Bible to express grief over the fall of a city or nation.

5. Judgment
The event of God's judgment upon Tyre, as prophesied by Ezekiel, due to its pride and opposition to God's people.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Pride
Tyre's downfall serves as a warning against pride and self-reliance. Despite its strength and renown, it could not withstand God's judgment.

The Sovereignty of God
God's control over nations and history is evident. He raises and brings down kingdoms according to His purposes.

The Transience of Earthly Power
The lament over Tyre reminds us that worldly power and wealth are temporary and should not be our ultimate pursuit.

The Call to Humility
Believers are encouraged to live humbly, recognizing that all we have is from God and should be used for His glory.

The Importance of Repentance
The judgment on Tyre underscores the need for repentance and turning back to God to avoid similar consequences.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the fall of Tyre illustrate the consequences of pride and self-reliance? Can you identify areas in your life where you might be relying too much on your own strength?

2. In what ways does the prophecy against Tyre demonstrate God's sovereignty over nations? How can this understanding impact your view of current world events?

3. How does the lament for Tyre compare to the lament for Babylon in Revelation 18? What lessons can we learn about the fate of worldly powers?

4. Reflect on the transient nature of earthly power and wealth. How can this perspective influence your priorities and decisions?

5. Considering the call to humility and repentance, what steps can you take to ensure that you are living in alignment with God's will and purposes?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 23
This chapter also contains a prophecy against Tyre, highlighting its downfall and the reasons for God's judgment.

Revelation 18
The fall of Babylon in Revelation echoes the lament over Tyre, symbolizing the ultimate judgment of worldly powers that oppose God.

Jeremiah 25:22
Jeremiah's prophecy includes Tyre among the nations that will face God's judgment, reinforcing the theme of divine retribution.