Ezekiel 28:7
Behold therefore, I will bring strangers vpon thee, the terrible of the nations: and they shall draw their swords against the beautie of thy wisedome, & they shall defile thy brightnesse. Ezekiel 28:7 (KJV)
This verse is part of the prophecy given by the prophet Ezekiel against the prince (or king) of Tyre. God, through Ezekiel, announces that He will bring foreigners or invaders—described as “the terrible of the nations”—against the ruler of Tyre. The phrase “the terrible of the nations” emphasizes the formidable and dreadful warriors from various nations who will execute the judgment.
The invading forces “shall draw their swords against the beauty of thy wisdom,” indicating that they will attack the prince’s political skill, counsel, and strategic abilities. Their assault will also “defile thy brightness,” meaning the splendor, glory, and prosperity associated with the ruler will be profaned and destroyed. This reflects the coming devastation of Tyre’s wealth, reputation, and the prideful confidence of its leader.
When studying this verse, it is essential to consider the historical context. Tyre was a powerful and wealthy Phoenician city renowned for its trade and maritime strength. The prince/king of Tyre is depicted as prideful, relying on his own wisdom and riches rather than on God, a reliance that led to his downfall and the subsequent invasion of his kingdom.
Ezekiel 28:1‑10 focuses on the human ruler’s arrogance and the imminent judgment. The later section of the chapter (Ezekiel 28:11‑19) shifts to address the king of Tyre and, according to some interpretations, contains a dual reference to spiritual forces, including the fall of Satan. In this view, the description of the ruler’s downfall mirrors Satan’s own pride and rebellion against God.
Overall, Ezekiel 28:7 conveys a clear message of judgment and downfall for the prince/king of Tyre, emphasizing the consequences of pride, reliance on worldly wisdom, and rebellion against God. The verse serves both as a historical warning to the nation of Tyre and, for some readers, as a typological illustration of the spiritual reality of Satan’s fall.
