Topical Encyclopedia The ancient city of Tyre, located on the Mediterranean coast in what is now modern-day Lebanon, was renowned for its wealth and extensive trade networks. As a major Phoenician port city, Tyre played a crucial role in the exchange of goods across the ancient world. The Bible provides several references to the imports of Tyre, highlighting its significance as a commercial hub.Biblical References The prophet Ezekiel offers a detailed account of Tyre's trade in Ezekiel 27, often referred to as a "lamentation for Tyre." This chapter vividly describes the city's extensive trade relations and the variety of goods imported from different regions. Ezekiel 27:3-4 states, "You say, ‘I am perfect in beauty.’ Your borders are in the heart of the seas; your builders perfected your beauty." This passage sets the stage for the subsequent verses that list Tyre's imports. Goods and Trade Partners Ezekiel 27:12-25 provides a comprehensive list of Tyre's trade partners and the goods they supplied: · Tarshish: Known for its silver, iron, tin, and lead (Ezekiel 27:12). · Javan, Tubal, and Meshech: These regions traded human beings and bronze vessels (Ezekiel 27:13). · Beth-togarmah: Supplied horses, war horses, and mules (Ezekiel 27:14). · Dedan: Known for trading saddlecloths for riding (Ezekiel 27:20). · Arabia and all the princes of Kedar: Provided lambs, rams, and goats (Ezekiel 27:21). · Sheba and Raamah: Traded spices, precious stones, and gold (Ezekiel 27:22). · Haran, Canneh, and Eden: Engaged in trade with Tyre, bringing choice garments, blue cloth, embroidered work, and multicolored carpets (Ezekiel 27:23-24). These verses illustrate the diversity of Tyre's imports, ranging from raw materials and luxury items to livestock and textiles. The city's ability to attract such a wide array of goods underscores its importance as a center of commerce and its influence in the ancient world. Economic and Cultural Impact The imports of Tyre not only contributed to its economic prosperity but also facilitated cultural exchanges. The city's strategic location and its role as a maritime power allowed it to serve as a conduit for the spread of ideas, technologies, and cultural practices. Tyre's wealth and opulence, derived from its trade, are frequently mentioned in the Bible, serving as a symbol of both human achievement and the potential for pride and downfall. Prophetic Warnings Despite its prosperity, Tyre's reliance on trade and its resulting pride became subjects of prophetic warnings. Ezekiel 28:2 records the word of the Lord against the ruler of Tyre: "In the pride of your heart you say, ‘I am a god; I sit on the throne of a god in the heart of the seas.’ But you are a man and not a god, though you think you are as wise as a god." This passage highlights the spiritual danger of pride and self-reliance, themes that resonate throughout the biblical narrative. In summary, the imports of Tyre, as detailed in the Bible, reflect the city's pivotal role in ancient trade and its broader cultural and spiritual implications. The biblical portrayal of Tyre serves as both a historical account and a moral lesson on the perils of pride and the transient nature of worldly wealth. Nave's Topical Index Ezekiel 27:12-25Tarshish was your merchant by reason of the multitude of all kind of riches; with silver, iron, tin, and lead, they traded in your fairs. Nave's Topical Index Library Travelling in Palestine --Roads, Inns, Hospitality, Custom-House ... The History of Simon Magus. They Shall be Called the Children of God Beginning at Jerusalem. --Luke xxiv. 47. The Sixth vision "On Earth" The Jerusalem Sinner Saved; Resources What does the Bible say about child sacrifice? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is structuralism? | GotQuestions.org Who are the Hare Krishnas and what do they believe? | GotQuestions.org Imported: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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