Ezekiel 27:6

Of oaks from Bashan they made your oars; of wood from the coasts of Cyprus they made your deck, inlaid with ivory.

Study Bible

Of oaks from Bashan they made your oars;
Bashan was a region known for its fertile land and strong, tall oak trees. The oaks of Bashan were highly valued for their durability and strength, making them ideal for crafting oars. This reference highlights the wealth and resourcefulness of Tyre, as they sourced the best materials for their ships. Biblically, Bashan is often associated with strength and abundance (Deuteronomy 3:10-11). The use of Bashan's oaks signifies the high quality and craftsmanship involved in Tyre's maritime endeavors.

of wood from the coasts of Cyprus they made your deck,
Cyprus, known in ancient times as Kittim, was famous for its abundant forests, particularly its cypress and cedar trees. The wood from Cyprus was prized for shipbuilding due to its resistance to rot and decay. This indicates Tyre's extensive trade networks and their ability to procure premium materials from distant lands. The mention of Cyprus also underscores the interconnectedness of ancient Mediterranean cultures and economies. The use of such wood for the deck suggests a focus on both functionality and luxury.

inlaid with ivory.
Ivory was a luxury item in the ancient world, often associated with wealth and opulence. The inlaying of ivory on the deck of a ship would have been a display of Tyre's prosperity and status. Ivory was typically sourced from Africa and India, indicating the far-reaching trade connections of Tyre. This opulence can be seen as a reflection of Tyre's pride and eventual downfall, as prophesied in Ezekiel 28. The use of ivory also has symbolic connections to purity and value, which can be seen as a type pointing to the purity and worth of Christ, who is described as precious and without blemish (1 Peter 1:19).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who ministered to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. He is the author of the book of Ezekiel, which contains prophecies and visions concerning Israel and the surrounding nations.

2. Bashan
A region known for its strong and durable oak trees. It was located east of the Jordan River and was famous for its fertile land and robust livestock.

3. Cyprus
An island in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, known for its valuable cypress wood. It was a significant center for trade and commerce in the ancient world.

4. Tyre
A prominent Phoenician city-state known for its wealth and maritime prowess. Ezekiel 27 is a lamentation over Tyre's impending downfall due to its pride and reliance on material wealth.

5. Ivory
A precious material often used in ancient times for decoration and luxury items. It symbolizes wealth and opulence.

Teaching Points

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

The Transience of Earthly Wealth
Just as Tyre's opulence could not save it, earthly wealth is temporary and cannot provide ultimate security or salvation.

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
The judgment on Tyre demonstrates God's control over all nations and His ability to humble the proud. Believers should live in humility and reverence before God.

The Importance of Using Resources Wisely
While resources like the oaks of Bashan and cypress wood are valuable, they should be used in ways that honor God and serve His purposes.

The Call to Reflect on Our Own Lives
This passage encourages self-examination regarding where we place our trust and how we use the resources God has given us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the description of Tyre's wealth in Ezekiel 27:6 challenge our modern views on material success and security?

2. In what ways can the account of Tyre's downfall serve as a warning for individuals and nations today?

3. How can we ensure that our trust remains in God rather than in the material resources we possess?

4. What are some practical ways we can use our resources to honor God and serve others?

5. How do the themes of pride and judgment in Ezekiel 27 relate to the broader biblical account of God's sovereignty and justice?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 2:12-17
This passage speaks of the Lord's judgment against the pride of man, similar to the judgment pronounced on Tyre in Ezekiel 27. Both passages highlight the futility of relying on material wealth and human achievements.

Revelation 18:11-17
The fall of Babylon in Revelation parallels the fall of Tyre, emphasizing the transient nature of earthly riches and the ultimate sovereignty of God over all nations.

1 Kings 10:22
This verse describes King Solomon's wealth, including his acquisition of ivory, illustrating the historical significance and value of such materials in ancient times.