Ezekiel 27:4
Thy borders are in the midst of the seas, thy builders have perfected thy beauty.
Original Language Analysis
בְּלֵ֥ב
are in the midst
H3820
בְּלֵ֥ב
are in the midst
Strong's:
H3820
Word #:
1 of 6
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
יַמִּ֖ים
of the seas
H3220
יַמִּ֖ים
of the seas
Strong's:
H3220
Word #:
2 of 6
a sea (as breaking in noisy surf) or large body of water; specifically (with the article), the mediterranean sea; sometimes a large river, or an artif
גְּבוּלָ֑יִךְ
Thy borders
H1366
גְּבוּלָ֑יִךְ
Thy borders
Strong's:
H1366
Word #:
3 of 6
properly, a cord (as twisted), i.e., (by implication) a boundary; by extension the territory inclosed
Historical Context
Tyrian architects and craftsmen were famous throughout the ancient world. Solomon employed Tyrian builders for the temple (1 Kings 5). Tyre's construction and artistic sophistication were indeed impressive. Yet attributing perfection to human builders rather than the Creator who enabled them constitutes the pride that provokes judgment. Human skill is real but derivative—all talent comes from God.
Questions for Reflection
- How do we take credit for achievements that ultimately depend on God?
- What does 'thy builders have perfected thy beauty' reveal about humanistic pride?
- Why is ignoring God's role in our achievements a form of theft?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Thy borders are in the midst of the seas, thy builders have perfected thy beauty continues Tyre's self-description. Borders in the seas emphasizes maritime identity—Tyre's dominion was the Mediterranean. Thy builders have perfected thy beauty credits human skill and artistry for Tyre's magnificence. This represents humanistic self-glorification—we built this, we perfected this. No acknowledgment of God who gave intelligence, resources, and opportunity. Taking credit for what God enabled is theft of His glory. All human achievement ultimately depends on divine gifts of life, intelligence, resources, and opportunity.