Ezekiel 26:15
Thus saith the Lord GOD to Tyrus; Shall not the isles shake at the sound of thy fall, when the wounded cry, when the slaughter is made in the midst of thee?
Ezekiel 26:15 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the Lord GOD is speaking to Tyrus, a city symbolizing worldly power and wealth. The verse warns Tyrus that its fall will be so great and devastating that even the surrounding islands will tremble at the sound of it. This vivid imagery is meant to convey the magnitude of the destruction and the impact it will have on not just the city itself, but on all those around it. The wounded cry and the slaughter described in the verse highlight the violence and chaos that will ensue as a result of Tyrus's downfall. The verse serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of pride, greed, and oppression, and the ultimate justice that will be served by the Lord GOD. It is a sobering message that warns against the dangers of arrogance and the fleeting nature of worldly power.
Theological Overview
Within this verse from Ezekiel, the prophet is delivering a prophecy from the Lord to the city of Tyre. The mention of the isles shaking at the sound of Tyre's fall signifies the significant impact that Tyre's destruction will have on surrounding nations and territories. The reference to the wounded crying and slaughter being made in the midst of Tyre portrays the devastation and loss of life that will accompany the city's downfall. In a theological interpretation, this verse could serve as a reminder of the consequences of sin and disobedience to God. It emphasizes the idea that actions have repercussions not only for individuals but also for whole communities and nations. The mention of the Lord GOD speaking directly to Tyre highlights the divine judgment being delivered upon the city for its transgressions. Overall, this verse serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of remaining faithful to God and the potential consequences of straying from His path.
Ezekiel 26:15 in other translations
American Standard Version
Thus saith the Lord Jehovah to Tyre: shall not the isles shake at the sound of thy fall, when the wounded groan, when the slaughter is made in the midst of thee?
World English Bible
Thus says the Lord Yahweh to Tyre: shall not the islands shake at the sound of your fall, when the wounded groan, when the slaughter is made in your midst?
Douay-Rheims
Thus saith the Lord God to Tyre: Shall not the islands shake at the sound of thy fall, and the groans of thy slain when they shall be killed in the midst of thee?
Geneva Bible (1599)
Thus sayth the Lord God to Tyrus, Shall not the yles tremble at the sounde of thy fall? and at the crie of the wounded, when they shall be slaine and murthered in the middes of thee?