Ezekiel 27:17

KJV

Judah, and the land of Israel, they [were] thy merchants: they traded in thy market wheat of Minnith, and Pannag, and honey, and oil, and balm.

KJV (with Strong's)

Judah {H3063}, and the land {H776} of Israel {H3478}, they were thy merchants {H7402}: they traded {H5414} in thy market {H4627} wheat {H2406} of Minnith {H4511}, and Pannag {H6436}, and honey {H1706}, and oil {H8081}, and balm {H6875}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Y'hudah and the land of Isra'el also traded with you, exchanging for your goods wheat from Minnit, millet, honey, olive oil and resin for healing.

Berean Standard Bible

Judah and the land of Israel traded with you; they exchanged wheat from Minnith, cakes and honey, oil and balm for your merchandise.

American Standard Version

Judah, and the land of Israel, they were thy traffickers: they traded for thy merchandise wheat of Minnith, and pannag, and honey, and oil, and balm.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 27:17 is a specific line within a comprehensive prophetic lament over Tyre, a dominant maritime city. This verse precisely identifies Judah and the land of Israel as significant trading partners, supplying Tyre's vibrant markets with essential agricultural commodities such as wheat from Minnith, Pannag, honey, oil, and balm. It vividly illustrates the intricate economic interdependence of ancient Near Eastern nations, highlighting Tyre's extensive commercial reach while subtly underscoring God's sovereign knowledge and ultimate control over all earthly kingdoms and their complex affairs.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezekiel 27 forms a profound prophetic lament, or dirge, over the city of Tyre, depicted metaphorically as a magnificent, perfectly crafted ship that is destined for a catastrophic shipwreck. This chapter directly follows the initial prophecy of judgment against Tyre in [Ezekiel 26](/ezekiel/26 "Ezekiel 26 - Prophecy Against Tyre"), which foretells its destruction by Nebuchadnezzar and subsequent powers. Chapter 27 meticulously elaborates on Tyre's immense wealth, unparalleled splendor, and extensive global trade network. It exhaustively lists its construction materials, its diverse crew, and, most importantly, its numerous trading partners and the specific goods exchanged. The detailed enumeration of nations and their contributions serves to emphasize the colossal scale of Tyre's commercial empire, making its prophesied downfall all the more dramatic and illustrative of the transient nature of worldly power and prosperity. The verse thus functions as a specific detail within this grand, mournful narrative, contributing to the overall picture of Tyre's former glory before its inevitable collapse.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Tyre was a formidable Phoenician city-state, strategically situated on the Mediterranean coast. It was renowned throughout the ancient world for its naval prowess, its exclusive production of highly prized purple dye, and its status as a dominant commercial hub. Its extensive trade routes connected the Near East, Egypt, and the broader Mediterranean world, bringing immense wealth and influence. Judah and Israel, though primarily agricultural societies, were geographically positioned to supply Tyre with essential foodstuffs and valuable commodities. Their relationship with Tyre was complex and dynamic, characterized by periods of alliance (e.g., during the reigns of David and Solomon, as detailed in [1 Kings 5](/1_kings/5 "1 Kings 5 - Solomon and Hiram's Alliance")) and periods of conflict or prophetic condemnation. This verse reflects a period of active and mutually beneficial commerce, showcasing the practical economic ties that often transcended political or religious differences, driven by the reciprocal needs of trade.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes present within the book of Ezekiel and the broader prophetic literature. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Economic Interdependence**, revealing how even distinct nations like Judah and Israel were integral to the regional economy, supplying vital agricultural goods to a major trade center like Tyre. Secondly, it highlights **Tyre's Vast Commercial Reach**, demonstrating the city's unparalleled influence and its reliance on diverse sources for its market, with Judah and Israel being but one crucial piece of this elaborate global puzzle. The detailed enumeration of Tyre's partners, including the "men of Arvad," "Gebal," and "Persia" (as seen in [Ezekiel 27:8-10](/ezekiel/27-8-10 "Ezekiel 27:8-10 - Tyre's Crew and Allies")), further emphasizes this global network. Finally, the meticulous detail of the prophecy, down to specific trade goods and partners, powerfully illustrates **God's Omniscience and Sovereignty over Nations**. It asserts that God's comprehensive knowledge and ultimate control extend not only to Israel's covenant history but also to the affairs of gentile nations and their worldly endeavors, including their intricate economic systems, a truth echoed in other prophecies against Tyre, such as [Isaiah 23](/isaiah/23 "Isaiah 23 - Prophecy Against Tyre and Sidon").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **merchants (Hebrew, _râkal'_):** (H7402) From a primitive root meaning "to travel for trading." This word emphasizes the active and engaged role of Judah and Israel not merely as passive producers but as participants in the commercial network. They were not simply supplying goods but were actively traveling to Tyre's market to conduct business, highlighting their agency and economic significance within Tyre's extensive trade system.
* **wheat (Hebrew, _chiṭṭâh'_):** (H2406) A fundamental staple crop, referring to both the grain and the plant itself. The specific mention of "wheat of Minnith" indicates a high-quality or particularly valued variety, suggesting that Judah and Israel supplied not just any wheat, but a premium commodity from fertile regions, likely the Transjordanian plains. This underscores the agricultural richness and productivity of the land God had blessed Israel with.
* **balm (Hebrew, _tsᵉrîy'_):** (H6875) From an unused root meaning "to crack" or "to leak," referring to a distillation or balsam. This was a highly valued resinous substance, particularly famous for its medicinal properties and often associated with the region of Gilead, east of the Jordan River. Its inclusion signifies a high-value, specialized export, demonstrating the diverse and precious natural resources available from Judah and Israel, beyond staple foods.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Judah, and the land of Israel":** This phrase precisely identifies the specific geographical and political entities involved in the trade. It encompasses both the southern kingdom of Judah and the broader territory historically associated with the northern kingdom of Israel, implying a comprehensive supply network drawing from the entire region, reflecting a unified economic contribution despite political divisions.
* **"they [were] thy merchants":** This clause directly states the nature of the commercial relationship. Judah and Israel acted as active traders, bringing their goods to Tyre's market, signifying an established and recognized role within Tyre's extensive trade network. The implied verb "were" in the Hebrew emphasizes their consistent and integral participation.
* **"they traded in thy market":** This further specifies the location and nature of their commercial interaction, indicating that the transactions took place within Tyre's bustling commercial center. The "market" (Hebrew _maʻărâb'_) refers to the place of traffic and mercantile goods, emphasizing Tyre's role as a central hub for international commerce, where goods from various regions converged.
* **"wheat of Minnith, and Pannag":** This lists the primary grain and agricultural commodities supplied. "Minnith" was a town in Ammon, east of the Jordan, known for its fertile lands, suggesting a specific, high-quality variety of wheat. "Pannag" is a more obscure term, likely referring to another specific agricultural product, perhaps a type of pastry, spice, or grain, highlighting the specific and varied nature of the trade goods.
* **"and honey, and oil, and balm":** This completes the list of goods, showcasing the diverse agricultural and natural resources exported. Honey (from bees or fruit syrup) and oil (likely olive oil) were not only staple products but also significant exports from the fertile land, symbolizing prosperity. Balm, a medicinal resin, was a high-value commodity, particularly associated with Gilead, further emphasizing the richness and variety of products from Judah and Israel.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 27:17, as an integral part of the grand lament over Tyre, employs several potent literary devices that enhance its impact and meaning. The most prominent is **Enumeration** or **Listing**, which is used extensively throughout the chapter to meticulously detail Tyre's vast commercial network, its construction, and its numerous trading partners. In this specific verse, the precise listing of commodities provided by Judah and Israel—"wheat of Minnith, and Pannag, and honey, and oil, and balm"—creates a vivid and concrete image of the trade. This detailed listing serves to emphasize the sheer scale and complexity of Tyre's economic empire, making its prophesied downfall all the more impactful and demonstrating the extent of its reliance on external sources. Additionally, there is an element of **Synecdoche**, where "Judah, and the land of Israel" stand in for the produce of their land, representing the agricultural bounty that flowed from their territory into Tyre. The entire chapter uses an extended **Metaphor** of Tyre as a magnificent ship, and this verse contributes to that metaphor by detailing the specific "cargo" or "provisions" that flowed into its "market," underscoring the ship's dependence on its diverse suppliers. The mention of specific, high-value goods like "balm" also carries symbolic weight, alluding to the land's richness and the specific blessings God had bestowed upon Israel, even as it participated in the broader worldly economy.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 27:17, while detailing ancient trade, offers profound theological insights that transcend its immediate historical context. It powerfully reminds us that God's sovereignty extends not only over the spiritual and moral lives of His covenant people but also over the intricate economic and geopolitical realities of all nations. The meticulous detail with which Ezekiel describes Tyre's global commerce, including the specific contributions of Judah and Israel, affirms God's comprehensive knowledge and ultimate control over human endeavors and global systems. This divine oversight implies accountability, as Tyre's immense pride and self-sufficiency, fueled by its vast wealth, ultimately lead to its devastating judgment. For God's people, the verse subtly highlights His faithfulness in providing for the land of Israel, enabling it to produce such abundance that it could even sustain a major commercial power like Tyre, echoing the promises of blessing for obedience. It also prompts reflection on the ethical dimensions of commerce, suggesting that while trade is a legitimate human activity, it must be conducted with humility and justice, rather than leading to the arrogance and idolatry of wealth that characterized Tyre.

* [Isaiah 23:8](/isaiah/23-8 "Isaiah 23:8 - Tyre's Merchants are Princes")
* [Proverbs 11:1](/proverbs/11-1 "Proverbs 11:1 - Dishonest Scales are an Abomination to the LORD")
* [Deuteronomy 8:7-9](/deuteronomy/8-7-9 "Deuteronomy 8:7-9 - A Land of Abundance")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 27:17, though deeply rooted in an ancient context, offers timeless lessons for believers today concerning economics, divine sovereignty, and our place in a globalized world. This verse vividly illustrates the reality of interconnected economies, where nations and regions rely on each other for resources and markets. In our highly globalized society, this ancient truth remains profoundly relevant, prompting us to consider the ethical implications of international trade, complex supply chains, and the pursuit of economic justice. The detailed knowledge displayed by God through Ezekiel, down to specific trade goods and partners, serves as a powerful reminder of His comprehensive oversight of all human affairs, including our financial systems and commercial activities. This divine perspective should foster a deep sense of humility and dependence on God, rather than on the transient nature of worldly wealth or economic power. We are called to engage in commerce and economic life with integrity, recognizing that all provision ultimately comes from God, and our prosperity should be stewarded for His glory and the good of others, not for self-aggrandizement or the kind of pride that led to Tyre's downfall.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does God's detailed knowledge of ancient trade networks, as seen in this verse, affirm His sovereignty over today's complex global economy and financial systems?**
* **What ethical principles should guide believers in their participation in commerce, whether as producers, consumers, or business leaders, in light of Tyre's ultimate downfall and the transient nature of worldly wealth?**
* **How can the abundance provided by the land of Israel to Tyre, as described here, encourage us to trust in God's provision in our own lives and communities, even amidst economic uncertainties?**

### FAQ
**What was "Pannag" and why is its meaning uncertain?**

Answer: "Pannag" (H6436) is a term found only once in the Bible, specifically in [Ezekiel 27:17](/ezekiel/27-17 "Ezekiel 27:17 - Tyre's Trade Partners"). Its precise meaning remains debated among scholars, leading to its uncertainty. It could refer to a specific type of grain, a confection or pastry, a spice, or even a region known for a particular agricultural product. The obscurity of the term highlights the very specific and localized nature of ancient trade goods, many of which are no longer identifiable or in common use today. Its inclusion, despite its ambiguity to modern readers, underscores the meticulous detail of Ezekiel's prophecy, reflecting a real, albeit now lost, commodity that was actively traded in Tyre's bustling market.

**Why would Judah and Israel, God's covenant people, be trading with a pagan city like Tyre?**

Answer: The trade relationship between Judah/Israel and Tyre was primarily driven by economic necessity and mutual benefit, despite their differing religious and cultural identities. Tyre, as a dominant maritime trading power, needed agricultural goods like wheat, honey, and oil, which the fertile lands of Judah and Israel could abundantly supply. Conversely, Judah and Israel benefited from access to Tyre's manufactured goods, timber (especially for building, as seen in [1 Kings 5:6](/1_kings/5-6 "1 Kings 5:6 - Hiram Supplies Timber")), and its wider international trade network. This verse demonstrates that even nations with distinct spiritual paths engaged in practical commerce, a common feature of ancient Near Eastern geopolitics. While Israel was called to be distinct and avoid idolatry, economic interactions were a pragmatic reality of their existence in the region.

**What is the significance of the specific goods listed: wheat, honey, oil, and balm?**

Answer: The listed goods are highly significant as they represent the agricultural richness and diverse natural resources of the land of Israel, a land promised and provided by God. "Wheat" (specifically "wheat of Minnith") was a fundamental staple food, indicating the land's capacity to produce essential sustenance for large populations. "Honey" and "oil" (likely olive oil) were not only vital dietary components but also potent symbols of prosperity, blessing, and abundance, often associated with the descriptive phrase "a land flowing with milk and honey" ([Exodus 3:8](/exodus/3-8 "Exodus 3:8 - A Land Flowing with Milk and Honey")). "Balm" (specifically "balm of Gilead" as referenced elsewhere, e.g., [Jeremiah 8:22](/jeremiah/8-22 "Jeremiah 8:22 - Is There No Balm in Gilead?")) was a highly valued medicinal and aromatic resin, signifying a specialized, high-value export. Together, these items paint a picture of a fertile and resource-rich land, capable of supplying even a powerful commercial hub like Tyre, underscoring God's faithful provision for His people and the inherent value of the land He gave them.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 27:17, situated within a detailed prophecy of Tyre's dramatic fall, subtly points to the ultimate fulfillment found in Jesus Christ, particularly through the stark contrast between transient earthly kingdoms and God's eternal, unshakable dominion. Tyre's immense wealth and intricate global trade network, though impressive in their scope, ultimately proved to be fleeting and perishable, serving as a powerful reminder that all worldly empires and their riches are temporary and destined to fade. This foreshadows the eternal and unshakable kingdom established by Jesus Christ, whose reign is not built on perishable goods or human commerce but on divine truth, righteousness, and eternal life ([Hebrews 12:28](/hebrews/12-28 "Hebrews 12:28 - An Unshakable Kingdom")). Furthermore, the "balm" exported from Israel, known for its healing properties, can be seen as a faint echo of the ultimate spiritual healing found in Jesus. He is the true "balm of Gilead," the one who brings profound spiritual healing and restoration to a broken and sinful world, mending what no earthly remedy can ([Jeremiah 8:22](/jeremiah/8-22 "Jeremiah 8:22 - Is There No Balm in Gilead?")). The provision of essential sustenance like "wheat," "honey," and "oil" from the land of Israel points to Christ as the ultimate provider of spiritual nourishment. He declared Himself the "bread of life" ([John 6:35](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus the Bread of Life")), the source of living water, and the one who offers true sustenance that satisfies eternally, far surpassing any earthly commodity. In Christ, we find the true and lasting wealth, a spiritual inheritance that does not fade or perish, purchased not by earthly trade but by His own infinite sacrifice on the cross ([1 Peter 1:4](/1_peter/1-4 "1 Peter 1:4 - An Inheritance Imperishable")). He is the one who gave Himself as the ultimate "merchant," trading His life for our redemption, securing for us a place in the eternal city where His glory is the light and the nations bring their glory to Him ([Revelation 21:23-26](/revelation/21-23-26 "Revelation 21:23-26 - The Glory of the New Jerusalem")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Judges 11:33

And he smote them from Aroer, even till thou come to Minnith, [even] twenty cities, and unto the plain of the vineyards, with a very great slaughter. Thus the children of Ammon were subdued before the children of Israel.

1 Kings 5:9

My servants shall bring [them] down from Lebanon unto the sea: and I will convey them by sea in floats unto the place that thou shalt appoint me, and will cause them to be discharged there, and thou shalt receive [them]: and thou shalt accomplish my desire, in giving food for my household.

Genesis 43:11

¶ And their father Israel said unto them, If [it must be] so now, do this; take of the best fruits in the land in your vessels, and carry down the man a present, a little balm, and a little honey, spices, and myrrh, nuts, and almonds:

Acts 12:20

¶ And Herod was highly displeased with them of Tyre and Sidon: but they came with one accord to him, and, having made Blastus the king's chamberlain their friend, desired peace; because their country was nourished by the king's [country].

Jeremiah 8:22

[Is there] no balm in Gilead; [is there] no physician there? why then is not the health of the daughter of my people recovered?

Deuteronomy 32:14

Butter of kine, and milk of sheep, with fat of lambs, and rams of the breed of Bashan, and goats, with the fat of kidneys of wheat; and thou didst drink the pure blood of the grape.

2 Chronicles 2:10

And, behold, I will give to thy servants, the hewers that cut timber, twenty thousand measures of beaten wheat, and twenty thousand measures of barley, and twenty thousand baths of wine, and twenty thousand baths of oil.