Ezekiel 26:4

They will destroy the walls of Tyre and demolish her towers. I will scrape the soil from her and make her a bare rock.

Study Bible

They will destroy the walls of Tyre
This phrase refers to the prophesied destruction of the city of Tyre, a powerful and wealthy Phoenician city-state located on the Mediterranean coast. Historically, Tyre was known for its strong fortifications and strategic position, making it a significant maritime power. The prophecy foretells the city's downfall, which was fulfilled through various sieges, most notably by Nebuchadnezzar II of Babylon and later by Alexander the Great. The destruction of Tyre's walls symbolizes the breaking of its defenses and the end of its dominance.

and demolish her towers.
The towers of Tyre were part of its formidable defense system, representing its military strength and architectural prowess. The demolition of these towers signifies a complete overthrow of Tyre's power and security. This imagery of destruction is consistent with other biblical prophecies against cities that opposed God's people, emphasizing the theme of divine judgment against pride and idolatry.

I will scrape the soil from her
This phrase suggests a thorough and complete devastation, leaving nothing behind. The imagery of scraping soil indicates that Tyre would be stripped of its wealth, influence, and even its physical presence. Historically, this was fulfilled when Alexander the Great used the debris from the mainland city to build a causeway to the island city, effectively scraping the soil and using it for his military purposes. This act of scraping also symbolizes God's judgment and the removal of all that is unholy or opposed to His will.

and make her a bare rock.
The transformation of Tyre into a "bare rock" signifies its utter desolation and the end of its glory. This imagery is powerful, as it portrays a once-thriving city reduced to a barren, lifeless state. In biblical symbolism, a "bare rock" can also represent exposure and vulnerability, contrasting with the city's former strength and prosperity. This prophecy highlights the sovereignty of God over nations and His ability to humble the proud. The fulfillment of this prophecy serves as a testament to the accuracy of biblical predictions and the ultimate triumph of God's purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who ministered to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. He is known for his vivid visions and symbolic actions.

2. Tyre
An ancient and wealthy Phoenician city located on the Mediterranean coast, known for its trade and strong fortifications.

3. Nebuchadnezzar
The Babylonian king who besieged and eventually destroyed Tyre, fulfilling the prophecy given by Ezekiel.

4. Babylonian Exile
The period when the Israelites were taken captive by Babylon, during which Ezekiel prophesied.

5. God's Judgment
The divine decree against Tyre for its pride and opposition to Israel, as conveyed through Ezekiel.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
The prophecy against Tyre demonstrates God's control over the rise and fall of nations. Believers can trust in God's ultimate authority and plan, even when worldly powers seem dominant.

The Danger of Pride
Tyre's downfall serves as a warning against pride and self-reliance. Christians are called to humility, recognizing that all blessings and successes come from God.

The Certainty of God's Word
The fulfillment of Ezekiel's prophecy against Tyre underscores the reliability of God's Word. Believers are encouraged to trust in the promises and warnings found in Scripture.

Judgment and Redemption
While God's judgment is certain, His ultimate desire is for repentance and redemption. This calls Christians to share the message of salvation and hope in Christ.

The Importance of Repentance
Tyre's fate highlights the need for repentance. Believers are reminded to examine their lives and turn away from sin, seeking God's forgiveness and grace.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy against Tyre in Ezekiel 26:4 illustrate God's sovereignty over human history?

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

3. How does the fulfillment of biblical prophecies, such as the one against Tyre, strengthen your faith in the reliability of Scripture?

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

5. How can the themes of judgment and redemption in Ezekiel 26:4 inspire you to share the gospel message with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 23
This chapter also prophesies the downfall of Tyre, emphasizing the theme of God's judgment against pride and self-reliance.

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

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