Ezekiel 27:2

"Now you, son of man, take up a lament for Tyre.

Study Bible

Now you, son of man
This phrase is a direct address to the prophet Ezekiel, often used throughout the book to emphasize his role as a messenger of God. The term "son of man" (Hebrew: "ben adam") highlights Ezekiel's humanity and his position as a representative of the people. It underscores the humility and responsibility of the prophet, who is called to deliver God's messages to Israel. This title is significant as it connects Ezekiel to the human condition, reminding readers of the divine calling to speak truth in a world that often turns away from it.

take up a lament
The phrase "take up a lament" (Hebrew: "qinnah") refers to a mournful song or poem, often used in the context of funerals or expressions of deep sorrow. In the ancient Near Eastern culture, laments were a formalized way of expressing grief and were often used to mourn the fall of cities or nations. Here, God instructs Ezekiel to compose a lament, indicating the seriousness of the message and the impending judgment on Tyre. This lament serves as both a warning and a call to repentance, urging the audience to reflect on their actions and the consequences thereof.

for Tyre
Tyre was a prominent Phoenician city known for its wealth, trade, and maritime prowess. Historically, Tyre was a powerful city-state with significant influence in the Mediterranean region. The mention of Tyre in this lament highlights its impending downfall due to its pride and self-reliance, which are seen as contrary to God's will. The city’s fate serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of hubris and the importance of acknowledging God's sovereignty over all nations. Tyre's account is a reminder of the transient nature of human achievements and the ultimate authority of God in the affairs of the world.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God, called to deliver messages of judgment and hope to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. Known for his vivid visions and symbolic actions.

2. Son of Man
A title used frequently in Ezekiel, emphasizing his humanity and role as a representative of the people. It underscores his position as a messenger of God.

3. Lament
A form of mourning or expression of grief, often used in prophetic literature to convey sorrow over sin and impending judgment.

4. Tyre
An ancient and prosperous Phoenician city known for its wealth and trade. It was located on the Mediterranean coast and was a significant maritime power.

5. Prophetic Message
The lament for Tyre is a prophetic message of judgment against the city for its pride and reliance on wealth rather than God.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Pride and Self-Reliance
Tyre's downfall serves as a warning against placing trust in wealth and human achievements rather than in God.

The Role of Lament in Spiritual Life
Lament is a biblical way to express grief and repentance, allowing believers to process sorrow and turn back to God.

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
The prophecy against Tyre demonstrates God's control over all nations and His ability to bring about justice and judgment.

The Importance of Heeding Prophetic Warnings
Just as Tyre was warned, believers today should heed the warnings in Scripture and align their lives with God's will.

The Transience of Earthly Wealth
Tyre's wealth and power were temporary, reminding us to invest in eternal treasures rather than earthly possessions.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the lament for Tyre teach us about the consequences of pride and self-reliance?

2. How can we incorporate the practice of lament into our spiritual lives today?

3. In what ways does the prophecy against Tyre demonstrate God's sovereignty over nations?

4. How can we apply the warnings given to Tyre to our personal lives and communities?

5. What are some practical ways to shift our focus from earthly wealth to eternal treasures, as taught in the lament for Tyre?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 23
This chapter also contains a prophecy against Tyre, highlighting its downfall due to pride and self-reliance.

Revelation 18
The fall of Babylon in Revelation echoes the themes of judgment against wealthy and prideful cities, similar to the lament for Tyre.

Lamentations
The entire book is a series of laments over the destruction of Jerusalem, providing a broader context for understanding the purpose and tone of lamentations in Scripture.