Pannag

What was Pannag?

Pannag is mentioned in Ezekiel 27:17 as a trade item in the prophet Ezekiel’s lamentation over the downfall of the wealthy city of Tyre. It is not a person, but a valuable product or commodity, most likely a form of sweet foodstuff or aromatic substance, that was exported by Judah and Israel in their trade dealings with Tyre. The Hebrew word פַּנַּג (pannāg) is rare and uncertain in meaning, but scholars and lexicons generally interpret it as referring to some kind of delicacy, confection, or aromatic food product, possibly spiced honey, baked goods, or aromatic resin.

The passage where it appears reads:

Judah and Israel traded with you; they exchanged wheat from Minnith and confections, honey, olive oil and balm for your wares.”
(Ezekiel 27:17, NIV)

The term pannag is translated “confections” in the NIV, and “pannag” in the KJV and other literal versions, preserving the original Hebrew term. Its exact identification has been the subject of various interpretations, but all views agree it was highly valuable and desirable in ancient trade.

Hebrew Meaning and Linguistic Notes

The Hebrew word פַּנַּג (pannāg) occurs only once in the Bible, making its precise meaning uncertain. Some ancient versions, such as the Septuagint, interpret it as “ointments” or “sweet cake.” The root of the word may be related to terms for sweetness or fragrance, and there is speculation it could refer to millet bread, fig cakes, or a fragrant resin used for perfume or incense.

Because it is listed alongside items like wheat, honey, olive oil, and balm, it is most likely a consumable good, rather than a manufactured item. Its placement in a list of luxury or valuable exports underscores its significance in trade.

Biblical Context and Cross-References

Pannag is mentioned in the prophetic lament over Tyre in Ezekiel 27, a poetic oracle describing the vast and elaborate trading network of Tyre, a prominent Phoenician city known for its wealth and seafaring commerce. In Ezekiel 27:17, Judah and Israel are listed as trading partners of Tyre, exporting pannag along with other prized agricultural products.

Other passages that highlight similar trade or products include:

  • Genesis 43:11“Put some of the best products of the land in your bags… some balm and some honey, some spices and myrrh, some pistachio nuts and almonds.” This verse illustrates the high value placed on local delicacies from the land of Israel.

  • Jeremiah 8:22“Is there no balm in Gilead?” (Balm is mentioned with pannag in Ezekiel 27:17, suggesting similar medicinal or aromatic value.)

  • 1 Kings 10:25 – Describes the wealth and gifts brought to King Solomon, including spices and food products, reflecting the importance of trade in Israel’s economy.

What Happened in the Bible?

In Ezekiel 27, God commands the prophet to take up a lamentation over the city of Tyre, portraying it as a once-majestic trading ship now doomed to shipwreck. In poetic form, the chapter details the vast array of international trade Tyre engaged in. Among the long list of goods and trading partners, Judah and Israel are described as exporting pannag, which reflects the wealth and productivity of the Promised Land.

This is significant because the inclusion of Judah and Israel in Tyre’s trade network shows their economic influence and the fruitfulness of the land God had given them. However, the lament also subtly reveals how such prosperity was not rooted in righteousness. Tyre’s pride in its commerce and self-sufficiency ultimately brought its downfall.

What It Means for Today’s Christians

The mention of pannag, though brief and obscure, carries important spiritual implications. It reminds us that the gifts of the land—the sweet and valuable produce like pannag—come from the blessing of God. The land of Israel, flowing with milk and honey, was meant to testify to God’s goodness and provision for His people.

Yet this reference also comes in the context of judgment. Tyre, though enriched by trade with Judah and Israel, exalted itself and turned from God. Similarly, material blessings can become a source of pride or idolatry when they are disconnected from their divine source.

Pannag also symbolizes the richness of what God provides—both physically and spiritually. Just as pannag was a sweet and desirable product, the Word of God is sweeter than honey (Psalm 119:103), and Jesus is the Bread of Life (John 6:35).

How Pannag Points to Jesus and the Gospel

Though pannag itself is a material product, its imagery of sweetness and satisfaction points forward to Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate fulfillment of all that satisfies the soul. As Israel‘s pannag was a delicacy to foreign nations, Christ is the true gift from Israel to the nations, offering eternal life and spiritual nourishment to all who believe.

Jesus said,

“I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry.”
(John 6:35)

Just as pannag was a prized trade item, Jesus is the treasure above all treasures. The gospel is a message of sweetness and healing—greater than honey, balm, or any worldly product. Moreover, pannag being a gift from the Promised Land reflects how Jesus came from the land of promise, as the true and better gift from God.

Broader Biblical Themes

1. God’s Provision and Blessing

Pannag represents the produce of a land blessed by God. It is a reminder that everything good comes from the Lord (James 1:17), and His provision sustains both Israel and the nations.

2. The Danger of Material Pride

Tyre‘s downfall illustrates how wealth and commerce, though not sinful in themselves, can lead to arrogance and self-sufficiency. This echoes themes in Proverbs, Ezekiel, and Revelation about the fall of prideful cities.

3. Witness to the Nations

Judah and Israel’s role as exporters of pannag is part of their calling to be a light to the nations (Isaiah 49:6). Just as they shared physical goods, they were meant to also share the knowledge of the one true God.

4. Fulfillment in Christ

Ultimately, pannag foreshadows the greater sweetness and satisfaction found in Christ. What was once a rare earthly delicacy now finds its spiritual counterpart in the gospel that nourishes eternally.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does pannag teach us about the richness of God’s provision?

  2. How can material blessings become either a means of worship or a source of pride?

  3. In what ways can we, like ancient Israel, be a blessing to the nations today?

  4. How does the fall of Tyre warn us about the dangers of trusting in wealth and trade?

  5. What does the imagery of sweetness in Scripture reveal about the character of God and His Word?

  6. How can we cultivate a deeper satisfaction in Jesus as the “Bread of Life”?

  7. Do you see your everyday resources—like food, money, or skills—as tools to glorify God and bless others?

  8. How does the gospel bring healing and sweetness to a broken world?

  9. What are modern forms of “pannag” that we might be tempted to treasure more than Christ?

  10. How does the story of pannag help us live in grateful dependence on God today?

Though only mentioned once in Scripture, Pannag points to the goodness of God‘s creation, the blessings of the covenant, and the ultimate sweetness of life in Christ, who alone satisfies the longing of every heart.

Related Videos