What was Izal?
Izal was a geographic location mentioned in the prophetic lament of Ezekiel 27:19, part of the broader passage that poetically describes the fall of the Phoenician city of Tyre. The name Izal (Hebrew: אִיזָל, ’Îzāl) is believed to refer to a place in Arabia, possibly associated with the region of Yemen or southern Arabia, known for producing precious goods and fine wares. The Septuagint (Greek Old Testament) renders it as Uzal, which some scholars associate with the ancient city of Sana’a in Yemen, thought to have been founded by Uzal, a descendant of Joktan (Genesis 10:27).
Izal was a trading partner of Tyre, contributing to its vast commercial empire. The city is mentioned in connection with merchants from Dan and Javan, who “brought wrought iron, cassia, and calamus” into Tyre’s market (Ezekiel 27:19). This points to Izal’s role in the network of trade and wealth that Tyre once dominated.
Biblical References and Cross-References
- Ezekiel 27:19 – “Danites and Greeks from Uzal bought your merchandise; they exchanged wrought iron, cassia, and calamus for your wares.”
- Genesis 10:26-27 – “Joktan was the father of… Uzal…” This reference provides a genealogical link to the region of Izal/Uzal.
- Ezekiel 27 – The entire chapter is a poetic dirge for Tyre, describing its trade relationships with many nations, including Izal.
- Revelation 18 – A future lament over Babylon, which echoes Ezekiel’s lament over Tyre, draws thematic parallels regarding economic pride and judgment.
What Happened in the Bible
In Ezekiel 27, the prophet portrays Tyre as a mighty merchant vessel that sinks in the midst of the seas, representing its destruction by judgment. Among the many nations that traded with Tyre was Izal, which supplied goods like wrought iron, cassia (a fragrant spice), and calamus (used in perfumes and incense). Izal’s mention illustrates how far-reaching Tyre’s influence was and how widespread its trade network extended—from Israel to the distant Arabian Peninsula.
The reference to Izal underscores the richness and variety of the goods Tyre accumulated. However, the point of the lament is not admiration but judgment. Tyre’s pride in its wealth, beauty, and international commerce led to its downfall. The collapse of Tyre serves as a warning to nations and cities that place their trust in commerce and pride rather than in the Lord.
What It Means for Today’s Christians
For modern believers, the mention of Izal within this broader lament of Tyre serves as a sobering reminder that no amount of wealth, trade, or international prestige can shield a nation or person from the judgment of God. The fall of Tyre, and by extension the loss of its trading partners like Izal, reveals the fleeting nature of material prosperity and the danger of prideful self-reliance.
Izal’s wealth was not enough to preserve Tyre or even its own renown in the long run. Though it played a role in the global economy of its time, its name survives only in a passing mention of a lamentation. Christians are reminded not to trust in riches or alliances but to place their hope and identity in God alone.
How Izal’s Story Points to Jesus and the Gospel
Izal was part of a world system that valued luxury, trade, and wealth—elements that often distract humanity from worshiping the true God. Jesus, by contrast, came not as a merchant but as a servant. He did not build His kingdom through trade or worldly power but through self-sacrifice and truth.
The fall of Tyre and the silence of Izal in history mirror the temporary nature of worldly kingdoms. Jesus said, “What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?” (Matthew 16:26). The gospel contrasts with Izal’s world—a gospel of eternal worth rather than temporal gain. Jesus offers the true treasure, one that does not perish, spoil, or fade (1 Peter 1:4).
Broader Biblical Themes
Judgment on Worldly Powers
The fall of Tyre, with Izal among its trade partners, exemplifies God‘s sovereignty over nations and economies. No power is immune to His righteous judgment.
The Fleeting Nature of Riches
Scripture often contrasts fleeting riches with eternal reward (Matthew 6:19-21). The loss of Izal’s place in history underscores the temporariness of wealth.
Global Connections Under God’s Sovereignty
Even distant places like Izal were part of God‘s prophetic message, showing that all nations, great or small, are under His rule.
The Kingdom of Christ vs. the Kingdom of the World
Tyre’s splendor and its eventual fall are starkly contrasted with Christ’s humble beginnings and eternal reign. Izal, as part of Tyre’s network, reminds us that only one kingdom will endure—the kingdom of God.
Reflection Questions
- What does Izal’s involvement in Tyre’s economy teach us about the dangers of overvaluing material prosperity?
- In what ways are modern societies similar to Tyre in terms of pride and dependence on wealth?
- How does the contrast between Tyre’s fall and Jesus’ eternal kingdom help realign our priorities?
- What can we learn from the silence of Izal in later Scripture about the legacy of worldly pursuits?
- How can Christians today live in the world but not be of the world, especially in areas like business, commerce, and influence?
Izal may be a lesser-known name in Scripture, but its inclusion in the lament over Tyre gives weight to the broader biblical narrative: all earthly kingdoms fade, but the kingdom of Christ stands forever.