Ezekiel 26:2

"Son of man, because Tyre has said of Jerusalem, 'Aha! The gate to the nations is broken; it has swung open to me; now that she lies in ruins I will be filled,'

Study Bible

Son of man
This phrase is a common title used by God to address Ezekiel, emphasizing his humanity and role as a prophet. It underscores the distinction between the divine and human, highlighting Ezekiel's position as a mediator of God's messages. This title is also used extensively in the New Testament, particularly by Jesus Christ to refer to Himself, emphasizing His incarnation and fulfillment of prophetic roles.

because Tyre has said of Jerusalem
Tyre was a powerful and wealthy city-state located on the Mediterranean coast, known for its trade and commerce. The relationship between Tyre and Jerusalem was complex, involving both cooperation and rivalry. Historically, Tyre had benefited from trade with Jerusalem, but the fall of Jerusalem to Babylon in 586 BC presented an opportunity for Tyre to expand its influence. This phrase sets the stage for God's judgment against Tyre for its attitude towards Jerusalem's downfall.

‘Aha! The gate to the nations is broken;
The exclamation "Aha!" indicates Tyre's gloating over Jerusalem's destruction. Jerusalem was strategically located and served as a significant trade route, often referred to as a "gate" to the nations. With Jerusalem's fall, Tyre saw an opportunity to dominate trade routes without competition. This attitude reflects a lack of compassion and a self-serving mindset, which God condemns.

it has swung open to me;
Tyre perceived Jerusalem's destruction as an opportunity for its own gain, believing that the absence of Jerusalem would allow Tyre to expand its commercial reach. This phrase highlights Tyre's opportunistic nature and its focus on material gain. The imagery of a gate swinging open suggests unrestricted access and opportunity, which Tyre sought to exploit.

now that she lies in ruins I will be filled,’
Tyre's expectation of being "filled" indicates its anticipation of increased wealth and prosperity at Jerusalem's expense. This reflects a broader biblical theme where nations or individuals who rejoice in the downfall of others are often subject to divine judgment. The prophetic literature frequently addresses the consequences of pride and self-exaltation, as seen in the eventual judgment pronounced against Tyre in the following verses. This serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and justice, ensuring that no nation or city can ultimately prosper through the misfortune of others.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God, called to deliver messages of judgment and hope to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile.

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

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, significant in biblical history as the spiritual and political center of the Jewish people.

4. Babylonian Exile
The period when the Israelites were taken captive by Babylon, leading to the destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BC.

5. God's Judgment
The divine response to the pride and arrogance of nations, as seen in the prophetic declarations against Tyre.

Teaching Points

Pride Leads to Downfall
Tyre's arrogance in rejoicing over Jerusalem's destruction serves as a warning against pride. Believers are called to humility, recognizing that all blessings come from God.

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

Empathy and Compassion
Tyre's lack of compassion for Jerusalem's suffering is a reminder for believers to show empathy and support to those in distress, reflecting Christ's love.

The Dangers of Materialism
Tyre's wealth and reliance on commerce led to its downfall. Christians are encouraged to prioritize spiritual riches over material wealth.

The Importance of Repentance
The judgment on Tyre underscores the need for repentance. Believers should regularly examine their hearts and turn away from sin, seeking God's forgiveness and guidance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the reaction of Tyre to Jerusalem's downfall reflect the dangers of pride, and how can we guard against similar attitudes in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the prophecy against Tyre demonstrate God's sovereignty, and how can this understanding impact our trust in God's plan today?

3. How can we cultivate empathy and compassion for others, especially in times of their suffering, as opposed to Tyre's response to Jerusalem?

4. What lessons can we learn from Tyre's reliance on wealth and commerce, and how can we apply these lessons to our own approach to material possessions?

5. How does the theme of repentance in the judgment of Tyre encourage us to examine our own lives, and what steps can we take to align ourselves more closely with God's will?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 23
This chapter also prophesies against Tyre, highlighting its downfall due to pride and reliance on wealth.

Jeremiah 25
Discusses the judgment upon various nations, including Tyre, as part of God's plan to humble the proud.

Lamentations 1
Describes the desolation of Jerusalem, providing context for Tyre's reaction to its downfall.

Proverbs 16:18
Offers wisdom on the consequences of pride, relevant to Tyre's attitude towards Jerusalem.

Revelation 18
The fall of Babylon parallels the judgment on Tyre, emphasizing the theme of divine retribution against prideful nations.