What happensPermalink
Tyre rejoices over Jerusalem’s fall, expecting to profit from the destruction of a commercial rival. Ezekiel therefore announces that God will bring nations against the great island city like waves of the sea, reducing it to bare rock and destroying its mainland settlements. Nebuchadnezzar will come with a great army to besiege Tyre. Its downfall will shock the surrounding maritime peoples, whose rulers will lament the destruction of the wealthy city.
Why it mattersPermalink
Tyre turns Jerusalem’s catastrophe into an opportunity for profit. The waves and maritime lament fit the imagery of a coastal trading power. Chapter 29 later reports that Nebuchadnezzar’s labor against Tyre brought no reward; the announced devastation should therefore be distinguished from what that campaign accomplished. Chapters 27–28 develop Tyre’s wealth and pride.
Key versePermalink
Therefore thus says the Lord God: Behold, I am against you, O Tyre, and will bring up many nations against you, as the sea brings up its waves.