Ezekiel 28:9

Will you still say, 'I am a god,' in the presence of those who slay you? You will be only a man, not a god, in the hands of those who wound you.

Study Bible

Will you still say, ‘I am a god,’
This phrase addresses the pride and arrogance of the ruler of Tyre, who claimed divinity. In the ancient Near East, it was common for kings to be deified or considered semi-divine. This reflects the broader biblical theme of human pride leading to downfall, as seen in Genesis 3 with the temptation of becoming like God. The ruler's claim echoes the sin of Lucifer, who sought to elevate himself above God (Isaiah 14:12-15).

in the presence of those who slay you?
This highlights the futility of the ruler's claim to divinity when faced with mortal danger. Historically, Tyre was a powerful city-state, but it faced numerous threats from empires like Babylon and later Alexander the Great. The rhetorical question underscores the reality that human power is limited and subject to God's sovereignty, as seen in the downfall of other proud leaders like Pharaoh in Exodus.

You will be only a man, not a god,
This statement emphasizes the mortality and limitations of the ruler. It serves as a reminder of the biblical truth that all humans are created beings, subject to God's authority (Psalm 8:4-5). The contrast between human frailty and divine omnipotence is a recurring theme in Scripture, reinforcing the need for humility before God.

in the hands of those who wound you.
This phrase indicates the inevitability of judgment and defeat. The historical context of Tyre's eventual conquest by foreign powers illustrates the fulfillment of prophetic warnings. It also serves as a type of Christ's ultimate victory over all earthly powers, as seen in Revelation 19:11-16, where Christ defeats the nations with divine authority.

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, through whom God delivers messages of judgment and hope.

2. Prince of Tyre
The primary subject of this passage, representing the human ruler of the city of Tyre. He is rebuked for his pride and self-deification.

3. Tyre
An ancient and wealthy city-state located on the Mediterranean coast, known for its commerce and trade. It is often symbolic of human pride and materialism in the Bible.

4. God
The sovereign Lord who speaks through Ezekiel, challenging the arrogance of the Prince of Tyre and asserting His own supremacy.

5. Those who slay you
Refers to the invading forces or circumstances that will bring about the downfall of the Prince of Tyre, demonstrating his mortality and vulnerability.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Pride
Pride leads individuals to elevate themselves to a status they do not possess, often resulting in their downfall. Recognize the importance of humility before God.

The Illusion of Self-Sufficiency
The Prince of Tyre's claim to divinity is a stark reminder of the human tendency to rely on self rather than God. Acknowledge our dependence on God for all things.

God's Sovereignty
Despite human claims to power and divinity, God remains the ultimate authority. Trust in God's sovereignty over all aspects of life.

The Reality of Mortality
The passage underscores the truth that all humans are mortal and accountable to God. Live with an eternal perspective, mindful of our finite nature.

Repentance and Humility
The call to recognize one's humanity and repent from pride is crucial. Embrace a lifestyle of repentance and humility before God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the pride of the Prince of Tyre reflect common attitudes in today's society, and how can we guard against similar pride in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the account of Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel 4 parallel the message in Ezekiel 28:9, and what lessons can we learn from his experience?

3. How can we practically demonstrate humility in our daily interactions with others, and what role does prayer play in cultivating a humble heart?

4. What are some areas in your life where you might be tempted to rely on your own strength rather than God's sovereignty, and how can you shift your focus?

5. How does understanding our mortality and accountability to God influence the way we live, and how can this perspective impact our priorities and decisions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 14
This chapter contains a similar theme of pride and downfall, specifically regarding the King of Babylon, drawing a parallel to the hubris of the Prince of Tyre.

Daniel 4
The account of Nebuchadnezzar's pride and subsequent humbling by God serves as a account illustration of the principle that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.

James 4:6
This New Testament verse echoes the theme of God opposing the proud, reinforcing the timeless truth of humility before God.