Ezekiel 27:15

The men of Dedan were your clients; many coastlands were your market; they paid you with ivory tusks and ebony.

Study Bible

The men of Dedan were your clients;
Dedan was an ancient city located in what is now modern-day Saudi Arabia. It was a significant trading center known for its caravans and commerce. The mention of Dedan highlights the extensive trade network that Tyre, the subject of Ezekiel 27, had established. Dedan's involvement as a client indicates a relationship where Dedan provided goods or services in exchange for Tyre's offerings. This reflects the economic dependencies and alliances that were common in the ancient Near East. Dedan is also mentioned in other biblical passages, such as Isaiah 21:13 and Jeremiah 25:23, indicating its continued relevance in regional trade and politics.

many coastlands were your market;
The reference to "many coastlands" underscores Tyre's far-reaching influence and trade connections across the Mediterranean and beyond. Tyre was a prominent Phoenician city known for its maritime prowess, and its ships traveled to various coastal regions, establishing trade routes and markets. This phrase suggests that Tyre's economic reach extended to numerous distant lands, making it a central hub in the ancient world. The coastlands could include regions such as Cyprus, Crete, and other parts of the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas, emphasizing the city's strategic importance in international trade.

they paid you with ivory tusks and ebony.
Ivory and ebony were luxury items highly prized in the ancient world. Ivory, often sourced from elephants, was used for crafting intricate carvings, inlays, and other decorative items. Ebony, a dense black hardwood, was valued for its beauty and durability, often used in fine furniture and artistic works. The payment in such luxury goods indicates the wealth and opulence associated with Tyre's trade. This exchange of high-value items reflects the prosperity and affluence of Tyre, as well as the demand for exotic and rare materials in ancient markets. The mention of these specific goods highlights the city's role in the distribution of luxury commodities across the region.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Dedan
An ancient trading community, likely located in the Arabian Peninsula. Known for its commercial activities and trade relations with Tyre.

2. Tyre
A prominent ancient Phoenician city known for its wealth and extensive trade networks. Tyre is the primary subject of Ezekiel 27, which describes its grandeur and eventual downfall.

3. Ivory and Ebony
Luxury goods that were highly valued in ancient trade. Ivory was sourced from elephant tusks, and ebony was a dense, dark wood, both symbolizing wealth and opulence.

4. Coastlands
Refers to various distant lands and islands that engaged in trade with Tyre, highlighting the city's extensive maritime trade network.

5. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who conveyed messages of judgment and restoration to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. His prophecies often included vivid imagery and symbolic language.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Pride in Wealth
Tyre's reliance on its wealth and trade led to its downfall. Christians are reminded to place their trust in God rather than material possessions.

The Transience of Earthly Riches
The luxury goods traded by Tyre, such as ivory and ebony, symbolize the temporary nature of earthly wealth. Believers are encouraged to store up treasures in heaven.

Global Influence and Responsibility
Tyre's extensive trade network highlights the influence and responsibility that come with wealth and power. Christians are called to use their resources for God's glory and the good of others.

Judgment and Restoration
Ezekiel's prophecies often include themes of judgment followed by restoration. This serves as a reminder of God's justice and mercy, encouraging repentance and hope.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the description of Tyre's trade in Ezekiel 27:15 reflect the city's priorities, and what can we learn about the dangers of prioritizing wealth over spiritual matters?

2. In what ways does the fall of Tyre serve as a warning to modern societies that place a high value on economic success and material wealth?

3. How can Christians today ensure that their business practices and financial decisions align with biblical principles, considering the example of Tyre?

4. What parallels can be drawn between the judgment of Tyre and the warnings given to other nations or cities in the Bible, such as Babylon in Revelation 18?

5. How can believers balance the pursuit of success and wealth with the call to live a life of humility and service, as taught in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 23
This chapter also addresses the city of Tyre, prophesying its downfall due to its pride and reliance on wealth. It serves as a parallel to Ezekiel's message of judgment against Tyre.

Revelation 18
The fall of Babylon in Revelation echoes the themes of commercial hubris and divine judgment found in Ezekiel 27, illustrating the ultimate futility of relying on material wealth.

1 Kings 10:22
Describes King Solomon's wealth and trade, including ivory and other luxury items, providing context for the significance of these goods in ancient commerce.