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Ezekiel 26:16

Then all the princes of the sea shall come down from their thrones, and lay away their robes, and put off their broidered garments: they shall clothe themselves with trembling; they shall sit upon the ground, and shall tremble at every moment, and be astonished at thee.

Ezekiel 26:16 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from the book of Ezekiel paints a vivid picture of the princes of the sea humbling themselves before a higher power. The imagery of the princes coming down from their thrones, removing their royal garments, and clothing themselves with trembling highlights the overwhelming awe and reverence they experience in the presence of an all-powerful being. They sit upon the ground in humility, trembling at every moment, and filled with astonishment. This can be interpreted as a reminder of the impermanence of earthly power and the ultimate authority of a divine force. The verse serves as a powerful message about the importance of humility, respect, and recognizing the supremacy of a greater force in the universe. It reminds readers of the need to approach the sacred with reverence and awe, acknowledging the limitations of human power and control in the grander scheme of things.

Theological Overview

At first glance, the verse "Then all the princes of the sea shall come down from their thrones, and lay away their robes, and put off their broidered garments: they shall clothe themselves with trembling; they shall sit upon the ground, and shall tremble at every moment, and be astonished at thee." appears to be describing a scene of humility and fear among powerful rulers. The phrase "princes of the sea" likely refers to powerful figures or kingdoms that have dominion over the sea or maritime trade routes. The act of coming down from their thrones, laying aside their royal robes, and sitting on the ground is a clear symbol of humility and submission before a greater power. The mention of trembling and astonishment further emphasizes the overwhelming presence and authority of the subject being addressed. This verse may be interpreted as a warning to those who hold earthly power, reminding them of the ultimate authority and majesty of God.

Ezekiel 26:16 in other translations

American Standard Version

Then all the princes of the sea shall come down from their thrones, and lay aside their robes, and strip off their broidered garments: they shall clothe themselves with trembling; they shall sit upon the ground, and shall tremble every moment, and be astonished at thee.

World English Bible

Then all the princes of the sea shall come down from their thrones, and lay aside their robes, and strip off their embroidered garments: they shall clothe themselves with trembling; they shall sit on the ground, and shall tremble every moment, and be astonished at you.

Douay-Rheims

Then all the princes of the sea shall come down from their thrones: and take off their robes, and cast away their broidered garments, and be clothed with astonishment: they shall sit on the ground, and with amazement shall wonder at thy sudden fall.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Then all the princes of the sea shall come downe from their thrones: they shall lay away their robes, and put off their broydered garments, and shall clothe themselues with astonishment: they shall sitte vpon the ground, and be astonished at euery moment, and be amased at thee.