Ezekiel 26:15 (KJV)

What does Ezekiel 26:15 mean?

Ezekiel 26:15 describes how the fall of the city of Tyre will be so devastating that even the distant coastlands ("isles") will tremble in fear when they hear the cries of the wounded and see the destruction happening within the city. The verse uses vivid language to show the far-reaching impact of Tyre’s downfall.

In this verse, God is speaking through the prophet Ezekiel to announce judgment against Tyre, a wealthy and influential port city. The message is directed not only to Tyre but also to the surrounding nations, warning them of the shock and terror that will spread when Tyre is destroyed. The verse emphasizes the scale of the disaster and the way it will be noticed far beyond Tyre itself.

The Hebrew behind Ezekiel 26:15

• "isles" (אִיִּים, 'iyyim): This word often means coastlands or distant shores, not just islands. It highlights that Tyre’s fall will affect people living far away, across the sea.
• "shake" (רָעַשׁ, ra‘ash): This word means to tremble or quake, suggesting a reaction of fear or alarm, not just a physical shaking. It paints a picture of widespread panic.
• "sound" (קוֹל, qol): This word can mean voice, sound, or report. Here, it refers to the news or noise of Tyre’s destruction reaching other lands.
• "fall" (מַפָּל, mapal): This word means a collapse or downfall, underlining the total ruin Tyre will experience.

Why Ezekiel 26:15 matters

• Ezekiel 26:15 clarifies that Tyre’s destruction is not just a local event; its consequences will ripple out to distant nations, showing the city's importance in the ancient world.
• The verse helps the reader see the emotional and psychological impact of Tyre’s fall, not just the physical destruction.
• This verse connects to the larger passage where Ezekiel prophesies against Tyre, setting up the idea that God’s judgments can shake even the most secure and influential places.