Ezekiel 27 24

Ezekiel 27:24 kjv

These were thy merchants in all sorts of things, in blue clothes, and broidered work, and in chests of rich apparel, bound with cords, and made of cedar, among thy merchandise.

Ezekiel 27:24 nkjv

These were your merchants in choice items?in purple clothes, in embroidered garments, in chests of multicolored apparel, in sturdy woven cords, which were in your marketplace.

Ezekiel 27:24 niv

In your marketplace they traded with you beautiful garments, blue fabric, embroidered work and multicolored rugs with cords twisted and tightly knotted.

Ezekiel 27:24 esv

In your market these traded with you in choice garments, in clothes of blue and embroidered work, and in carpets of colored material, bound with cords and made secure.

Ezekiel 27:24 nlt

They brought choice fabrics to trade ? blue cloth, embroidery, and multicolored carpets rolled up and bound with cords.

Ezekiel 27 verses

Ezekiel 27 24 Meaning

This verse describes those who traded with Tyre. They are called "sheba" and "raamah." These are presented as elite traders associated with luxury goods, specifically spices and precious commodities.

Ezekiel 27 24 Context

This chapter is a powerful lamentation over the fall of the proud and commercially dominant city of Tyre. Ezekiel uses vivid imagery to describe Tyre's extensive trade network and its perceived invincibility due to its wealth. Verse 24 specifically highlights some of Tyre's significant trading partners. This was written during a period when Nebuchadnezzar was besieging Tyre, a event that would eventually lead to its partial destruction. The chapter contrasts Tyre's past glory with its impending doom. The nations mentioned, Sheba and Raamah, represent wealthy regions known for luxury goods, underscoring the vast reach of Tyre's commercial empire. The judgment proclaimed against Tyre served as a warning to all nations that put their trust in human power and riches rather than God.

Ezekiel 27 24 Word Analysis

• and: Connects "Sheba" and "Raamah," listing them as entities involved in trade with Tyre.
• the: Article indicating specific known individuals or groups.
• merchants: Individuals who engage in trade and commerce.
• of: Shows possession or association; belonging to.
• Sheba:
  • A name with possible connections to descendants of Cush (Ham's son) or Shem's son.
  • Geographically, Sheba often refers to a rich Arab kingdom known for spices, gold, and precious stones (Gen 10:7, 28; Isa 60:6; Jer 6:20).
  • The association here is with trade in high-value commodities.
• and: Connects "Sheba" and "Raamah."
• Raamah:
  • Another descendant of Cush (Gen 10:7).
  • Likely refers to a Semitic trading people, possibly in Arabia, associated with the Arabian trade routes.
  • Paired with Sheba, it emphasizes a region supplying fine goods.
• of: Shows possession or association.
• all: Denotes completeness or entirety.
• things: Refers to items or commodities, specifically those traded.
• chief:
  • Implies superiority, highest in rank, quality, or importance.
  • Highlights that these were not common goods but the finest available.
• the: Article indicating specific known items.
• best:
  • Signifies the highest quality or value.
  • Reinforces the idea of luxury and excellence.
• spices:
  • Aromatic substances, often valuable, used for flavoring, incense, and in medicine.
  • Sheba was particularly famous for spices and incense.
• and: Connects "spices" with "jewels," indicating a variety of elite goods.
• of: Shows possession or association.
• jewels: Precious stones, often rare and valuable.
• and: Connects "jewels" with "merchandise," further listing types of valuable trade.
• of: Shows possession or association.
• merchandise: Goods or wares bought and sold.
• wealth: Abundance of valuable possessions or money; riches.

Ezekiel 27 24 Bonus Section

The inclusion of "coral" and "pearl" alongside spices and jewels provides further detail about the breadth of Tyre's trade. Coral likely came from the Mediterranean, whereas pearls and precious stones could have originated from the Persian Gulf or even farther east. The spiritual parallel lies in understanding true value; while Tyre dealt in material riches, the Bible consistently calls believers to focus on spiritual treasures, which are imperishable (Matt 6:19-21). The ultimate lamentation in Ezekiel chapter 27 is not just about physical destruction but the futility of placing ultimate trust in material wealth, a recurring theme throughout scripture (Luke 12:15; 1 Tim 6:17). The nations that trade with Tyre, in their pursuit of earthly gain, ultimately become entangled in its fate, mirroring how association with worldliness can lead to spiritual compromise.

Ezekiel 27 24 Commentary

This verse succinctly points to two principal groups, Sheba and Raamah, as key trading partners of Tyre. Their role is characterized by their provision of "chief of all best spices, and of all precious stones, and coral, and pearl." This illustrates the exotic and high-value nature of Tyre's international commerce. It shows that Tyre's prosperity was built upon connecting distant lands that offered these rare commodities. The mention of "chief of all best" signifies the pinnacle of luxury goods, highlighting the opulence that characterized Tyre's trading prowess. The selection of these specific goods – spices, precious stones, coral, and pearls – underscores Tyre's reach into lucrative markets across the ancient world, like Arabia and possibly the Persian Gulf or Indian Ocean regions. It's a picture of a globalized economy, albeit ancient, driven by demand for luxury and exclusivity.