Topical Bible: Tyre: Prophecies Respecting: All Nations to be Terrified at Its Destruction

◄ Tyre: Prophecies Respecting: All Nations to be Terrified at Its Destruction ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Tyre, an ancient and prosperous Phoenician city located on the Mediterranean coast, holds a significant place in biblical prophecy. Known for its wealth, maritime prowess, and strategic location, Tyre was a hub of commerce and culture. However, its pride and idolatry led to numerous prophecies concerning its downfall, which are detailed in the Scriptures. These prophecies emphasize that the destruction of Tyre would not only be a local calamity but would also instill fear and astonishment among the nations.

Prophetic Pronouncements Against Tyre

The prophet Ezekiel provides a comprehensive account of the impending judgment against Tyre. In Ezekiel 26:15-18 , the Lord declares through the prophet:

"This is what the Lord GOD says to Tyre: 'Will not the coastlands tremble at the sound of your fall, when the wounded groan and slaughter occurs in your midst? Then all the princes of the sea will step down from their thrones, remove their robes, and strip off their embroidered garments. They will clothe themselves with trembling; they will sit on the ground, tremble every moment, and be appalled at you. Then they will take up a lament for you and say to you: How you have perished, O city of renown, inhabited by seafaring men, O renowned city, who was strong in the sea, she and her inhabitants, who imposed their terror on all her inhabitants!'"

This passage highlights the widespread impact of Tyre's destruction. The coastlands, representing distant nations, would tremble at the news of Tyre's fall. The imagery of the "princes of the sea" stepping down from their thrones and clothing themselves with trembling underscores the fear and astonishment that would grip the leaders and nations that once engaged in commerce with Tyre.

The Lamentation Over Tyre

Ezekiel 27 further elaborates on the lamentation over Tyre, portraying the city as a majestic ship that meets a tragic end. In Ezekiel 27:29-32 , the prophecy continues:

"All who handle the oars will abandon their ships. The sailors and all the mariners will stand on the shore. They will raise their voices over you and cry out bitterly. They will throw dust on their heads and roll in ashes. They will shave their heads for you and put on sackcloth. They will weep for you with anguish of soul and bitter mourning. As they wail and mourn over you, they will take up a lament for you: Who was ever like Tyre, silenced in the middle of the sea?"

The vivid depiction of sailors and mariners mourning the loss of Tyre illustrates the profound sense of loss and fear that would permeate the maritime world. The rhetorical question, "Who was ever like Tyre, silenced in the middle of the sea?" emphasizes the unparalleled nature of Tyre's fall and the shock it would send through the nations.

The Broader Impact on Nations

The prophecies against Tyre extend beyond its immediate destruction to encompass a broader impact on the surrounding nations. In Isaiah 23:5 , the prophet Isaiah states:

"When the report reaches Egypt, they will writhe in agony over the news of Tyre."

This verse indicates that even Egypt, a powerful and distant nation, would be deeply affected by the news of Tyre's downfall. The imagery of writhing in agony suggests a visceral reaction, highlighting the fear and uncertainty that would ripple through the nations as a result of Tyre's destruction.

Conclusion

The prophecies concerning Tyre's destruction serve as a powerful testament to the sovereignty and justice of God. Through the words of the prophets, the Scriptures reveal that Tyre's fall would not only be a judgment upon the city itself but would also serve as a warning and a source of terror for the nations. The fulfillment of these prophecies underscores the biblical theme that pride and idolatry ultimately lead to downfall, and that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom for all nations.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Ezekiel 26:15-18
Thus said the Lord GOD to Tyrus; Shall not the isles shake at the sound of your fall, when the wounded cry, when the slaughter is made in the middle of you?
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Ezekiel 27:29-36
And all that handle the oar, the mariners, and all the pilots of the sea, shall come down from their ships, they shall stand on the land;
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Zechariah 9:5
Ashkelon shall see it, and fear; Gaza also shall see it, and be very sorrowful, and Ekron; for her expectation shall be ashamed; and the king shall perish from Gaza, and Ashkelon shall not be inhabited.
Torrey's Topical Textbook