Ezekiel 26:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Ezekiel 26:6
6 And her daughters which are in the field shall be slain by the sword; and they shall know that I am the LORD.
Chapter Context
Ezekiel 26 is a prophetic vision chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of creation, love, grace. Written during the Babylonian exile (c. 593-570 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ministered to exiles in Babylon with visions of God's glory and future restoration.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-21: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Ezekiel and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Ezekiel 26:6
6 And her daughters which are in the field shall be slain by the sword; and they shall know that I am the LORD.
Analysis
And her daughters which are in the field shall be slain by the sword refers to Tyre's dependent cities and colonies on the mainland. Daughters means satellite settlements. The mainland cities will be conquered militarily. And they shall know that I am the LORD declares that judgment's purpose is revelatory—producing recognition of Yahweh's sovereignty. This recognition formula appears throughout Ezekiel. All judgment ultimately serves to reveal God's identity and authority. Some learn through mercy; others through judgment. But all will know Him eventually (Philippians 2:10-11).
Historical Context
Tyre controlled numerous coastal cities and trading posts throughout the Mediterranean. These 'daughter' cities on the mainland fell to various conquerors (Babylonian, Persian, Greek, Roman) over the centuries. Each conquest demonstrated that no power can stand against God's decree, forcing acknowledgment of His sovereignty.
Reflection
- How does judgment reveal God's identity and character?
- What does it mean to 'know that I am the LORD'?
- Will you come to know God through mercy or judgment?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- Word: Ezekiel 26:8
- Parallel theme: Ezekiel 16:46