Ezekiel 28:2 Meaning and Explanation
“Son of man, say unto the prince of Tyrus, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Because thine heart is lifted up, and thou hast said, I am a God, I sit in the seat of God, in the midst of the seas; yet thou art a man, and not God, though thou set thine heart as the heart of God:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God rebukes the prince of Tyrus for claiming divine status and sitting in God's throne.
The Context of Ezekiel 28:2
God's accusation against the Tyrian prince's blasphemous self-exaltation.
What Does Ezekiel 28:2 Mean?
The prince of Tyrus, likely King Ethbaal or his successor, has become so proud of his wealth and power that he claims godlike status, sitting 'in the seat of God' among the seas. Tyrus (modern-day Tyre) was a powerful Phoenician city-state on the Mediterranean coast known for its merchant princes and international influence.
God directly challenges this arrogance: though the prince may have set his heart to be like God, he remains fundamentally human and mortal. The rebuke contrasts his pretension with his actual nature, exposing the delusion underlying his pride.
Ezekiel 28:2 in the Original Language
nasi (נָשִׂיא), 'prince' — a ruler or chief, often of a dependent state rather than an independent king.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ezekiel 28:2
What does Ezekiel 28:2 mean?
God rebukes the prince of Tyrus for claiming divine status and sitting in God's throne.
What is the context of Ezekiel 28:2?
God's accusation against the Tyrian prince's blasphemous self-exaltation.