Topical Encyclopedia The ancient city of Tyre, located on the Mediterranean coast in what is now modern-day Lebanon, was renowned for its formidable walls. These walls played a significant role in the city's history and are mentioned in various biblical passages, highlighting their importance and the city's eventual downfall.Historical Context Tyre was a major Phoenician city, known for its wealth, maritime prowess, and as a center of trade and commerce. The city was divided into two parts: the mainland settlement and the island city. The island city, in particular, was heavily fortified with massive walls that made it nearly impregnable to ancient siege tactics. Biblical References The Bible references Tyre and its walls in several passages, often in the context of prophecy and judgment. The prophet Ezekiel, for instance, prophesied the destruction of Tyre, emphasizing the strength of its walls and the eventual divine judgment that would lead to their downfall. In Ezekiel 26:4, the Lord declares, "They will destroy the walls of Tyre and demolish her towers; I will scrape away her rubble and make her a bare rock" . This prophecy underscores the certainty of Tyre's destruction despite its formidable defenses. Similarly, in Ezekiel 26:12, the prophecy continues, "They will plunder your wealth and loot your merchandise. They will break down your walls and demolish your fine houses and throw your stones, timber, and rubble into the sea" . This vivid imagery illustrates the complete devastation that would befall Tyre, including the dismantling of its walls. Fulfillment of Prophecy The fulfillment of these prophecies is historically significant. Tyre's walls were famously breached by Alexander the Great in 332 BC. After a prolonged siege, Alexander constructed a causeway to the island city, allowing his forces to overcome the defenses that had previously seemed insurmountable. This event is often seen as a fulfillment of Ezekiel's prophecy, demonstrating the accuracy and divine inspiration of the biblical text. Symbolism and Theological Significance The walls of Tyre symbolize human pride and reliance on earthly strength. Throughout the Bible, God often uses the imagery of walls to represent security and protection. However, in the case of Tyre, the walls also represent the futility of trusting in human achievements over divine sovereignty. The destruction of Tyre's walls serves as a reminder of God's ultimate authority and the consequences of pride and idolatry. Conclusion The walls of Tyre, while a testament to human engineering and strength, ultimately fell under the weight of divine judgment. Their account, as recorded in the Bible, serves as a powerful reminder of the transient nature of human power and the enduring truth of God's word. Subtopics of the Cities Walls of Babylon of the Cities Walls of Bashan, Destroyed by the Israelites of the Cities Walls of Beth-Shan of the Cities Walls of Jericho of the Cities Walls of the New Jerusalem of the Cities Walls: Houses Built Upon Walls of Cities were Battered by Besieging Armies Walls of Cities were Broad and Places of Public Resort Walls of Cities were Strongly Manned in War Walls of Cities: Adroitness of Soldiers in Scaling Alluded To Walls of Cities: Custom of Dedicating Walls of Cities: Danger of Approaching Too Near To, in Time of War Walls of Cities: Destruction of, a Punishment and Cause of Grief Walls of Cities: Frequently Laid in Ruins Walls of Cities: had Towers Built on Them Walls of Cities: Houses often Built On Walls of Cities: Houses Sometimes Broken Down to Repair, and Fortify Walls of Cities: Idolatrous Rites Performed On Walls of Cities: Kept by Watchmen Night and Day Walls of Cities: Often Very High Walls of Cities: Persons Let Down From Walls of Cities: Sometimes Burned Walls of Cities: Strongly Fortified Walls of Cities: The Bodies of Enemies Sometimes Fastened On, As a Disgrace Walls of Cities: The Falling of, Sometimes Occasioned Great Destruction Walls of Houses: Could be Easily Dug Through Walls of Houses: had Nails or Pegs Fastened Into Them when Built Walls of Houses: Liable to Leprosy Walls of Houses: Often Infested With Serpents Walls of Houses: The Seat Next, Was the Place of Distinction Walls of Houses: Usually Plastered Walls of Ordinances As a Protection to the Church Walls of the Church As a Protection to the Nation Walls of the Protection of God Walls of the Wealth of the Rich in his own Conceit Walls of Those Who Afford Protection Walls were Probably often Strengthened With Plates of Iron or Brass Walls: (Bowing or Tottering) of the Wicked Under Judgments Walls: (Brazen) of Prophets in Their Testimony Against the Wicked Walls: (Daubed With Untempered Mortar) of the Teaching of False Walls: (Of Partition) Separation of Jews and Gentiles Walls: Designed for Separation Walls: Frequently Made of Stone and Wood Together Walls: Hyssop Frequently Grew On Walls: Miracles Connected With: Falling of the Walls of Jericho Walls: Miracles Connected With: Handwriting on the Wall of Belshazzar's Palace Walls: Small Towns and Villages Were not Surrounded By Related Terms |
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