Ezekiel 27:16 (KJV)

What does Ezekiel 27:16 mean?

Ezekiel 27:16 describes how Syria was one of the main trading partners of the city of Tyre, bringing valuable goods such as emeralds, purple cloth, embroidered work, fine linen, coral, and agate to trade in Tyre’s markets. The verse highlights the wealth and variety of merchandise that flowed into Tyre because of its extensive trade connections.

In this chapter, the prophet Ezekiel is speaking God’s message against Tyre, a wealthy port city known for its commerce. Ezekiel lists the nations that traded with Tyre and the luxury items they brought, painting a picture of Tyre’s prosperity and its role as a commercial hub in the ancient world.

The Hebrew behind Ezekiel 27:16

• "Syria" (אֲרָם, 'aram): This word refers to the region north and east of Israel, a powerful neighbor and frequent trading partner. Some translations use "Edom" here, but the Hebrew in the KJV is "Aram," meaning Syria.
• "Merchant" (רֹכֵל, rokhel): This word means a trader or dealer, emphasizing that Syria acted as a commercial partner rather than a political ally.
• "Fairs" (שֲׁוָה, shavah): This word refers to marketplaces or trading centers, highlighting Tyre’s role as a bustling place where goods from many lands were exchanged.
• "Emeralds" (נֹפֶךְ, nofech) and "agate" (שְׁבוֹ, shevo): These words name specific precious stones, showing the high value and luxury of the goods traded.

Why Ezekiel 27:16 matters

• This verse helps clarify the scale and richness of Tyre’s trade, showing that its wealth depended on international commerce rather than local resources alone.
• By listing specific luxury goods and trading partners, Ezekiel sets up the later message of judgment, making clear what Tyre stands to lose.
• Understanding the historical context of Tyre’s trade relationships helps readers see why its downfall would have been shocking and significant to people of that time.