Ezekiel 28:21

KJV

Son of man, set thy face against Zidon, and prophesy against it,

KJV (with Strong's)

Son {H1121} of man {H120}, set {H7760} thy face {H6440} against Zidon {H6721}, and prophesy {H5012} against it,

Complete Jewish Bible

"Human being, turn your face toward Tzidon, and prophesy against it.

Berean Standard Bible

“Son of man, set your face against Sidon and prophesy against her.

American Standard Version

Son of man, set thy face toward Sidon, and prophesy against it,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 28:21 introduces a new divine oracle, shifting the prophetic focus from Tyre to Zidon, a prominent Phoenician city-state. This verse serves as a solemn command to the prophet Ezekiel, instructing him to assume a resolute posture and deliver a message of divine judgment against Zidon, thereby underscoring God's absolute sovereignty over all nations and their accountability for pride, idolatry, and actions against His covenant people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezekiel 28:21 is strategically positioned within a significant prophetic block (Ezekiel 25-32) that meticulously details God's judgments against various foreign nations surrounding Israel. This section collectively serves as a profound theological statement, demonstrating Yahweh's unchallenged sovereignty over the entire world, not merely His chosen nation. Immediately preceding this verse, chapters [Ezekiel 26-28:20](/ezekiel/26 "Ezekiel 26-28:20 - Prophecies Against Tyre") contain an extensive and devastating prophecy directed at Tyre, Zidon's powerful and economically dominant maritime neighbor. The abrupt transition to Zidon in verse 21 signals that while Tyre was a primary object of divine wrath, Zidon, as a significant regional power, an ancient ally, and often a co-conspirator or cultural influencer, would also face a comprehensive divine reckoning. This sequential judgment highlights a consistent pattern of God's justice against those who oppose His divine will, oppress His people, or embody the sins of self-exaltation and spiritual corruption.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Zidon, often referred to as Sidon, was one of the most ancient and influential Phoenician city-states, situated along the Mediterranean coast, north of Israel. It shared a deep historical and cultural kinship with Tyre, both serving as vital hubs for maritime trade, renowned for their skilled artisans, the production of highly prized purple dye, and expansive commercial networks that spanned the Mediterranean world. Culturally, Zidon was deeply immersed in polytheistic worship, particularly venerating Baal and Asherah, deities whose cults were notoriously associated with fertility rites, temple prostitution, and, tragically, child sacrifice. Historically, Zidon's relationship with Israel was complex; while trade relations occasionally flourished, Zidon frequently acted as a conduit for idolatrous practices into Israel (as seen with Jezebel's influence, detailed in [1 Kings 16:31](/1_kings/16-31 "1 Kings 16:31 - Ahab and Jezebel's Idolatry")), and at times participated in hostile actions against God's people. Its immense wealth, strategic coastal location, and long history fostered a profound sense of self-sufficiency and pride, making it a prime candidate for the prophetic pronouncements of divine judgment.
* **Key Themes:** This verse, by issuing a direct divine command for a prophecy against Zidon, significantly reinforces several overarching themes prevalent throughout the book of Ezekiel. Firstly, it powerfully reiterates the theme of **Divine Sovereignty Over Nations**, unequivocally demonstrating that God's authority and jurisdiction extend far beyond the borders of Israel, encompassing all global powers and holding them accountable for their moral and spiritual condition. Secondly, it underscores the theme of **Prophetic Declaration of Judgment**, showcasing Ezekiel's unwavering role as God's authoritative mouthpiece, tasked with delivering specific, often severe, messages of impending divine consequence. The imperative to "set thy face against Zidon" signifies an unyielding and resolute posture of divine judgment, mirroring similar pronouncements against Jerusalem (e.g., [Ezekiel 4:7](/ezekiel/4-7 "Ezekiel 4:7 - Ezekiel's Prophecy Against Jerusalem")) or the mountains of Israel (e.g., [Ezekiel 6:2](/ezekiel/6-2 "Ezekiel 6:2 - Prophecy Against the Mountains of Israel")). Finally, Zidon's inclusion in this series of judgments highlights the pervasive theme of **Accountability for Idolatry and Pride**, implying that its impending judgment, much like Tyre's, stems directly from its self-exaltation, its reliance on material wealth, and its profound rejection of the one true God, which often manifested in oppressive or unrighteous societal behaviors.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Son (Hebrew, _bên'_):** (H1121) This term, used here in the phrase "Son of man," signifies a descendant or a member of a category. In this context, it emphasizes Ezekiel's human nature, placing him within the realm of humanity, a mortal being who stands in contrast to the divine source of the message.
* **man (Hebrew, _ʼâdâm'_):** (H120) Referring to a human being, this word, combined with "son," forms the recurring designation "Son of man." It highlights Ezekiel's shared humanity with those to whom he prophesies, underscoring that the divine message is delivered through a relatable, albeit divinely appointed, individual.
* **set (Hebrew, _sûwm'_):** (H7760) A versatile verb meaning "to put" or "to place." In the idiomatic expression "set thy face," it conveys the deliberate act of directing one's attention with resolute intention, indicating a fixed and unyielding purpose for the ensuing action.
* **face (Hebrew, _pânîym'_):** (H6440) Literally "the face," this word is used in a wide variety of applications, often denoting presence, direction, or disposition. When combined with "set," it forms an idiom signifying a determined, confrontational, and unwavering stance, indicative of a direct and unavoidable confrontation.
* **prophesy (Hebrew, _nâbâ'_):** (H5012) A primitive root meaning "to prophesy," specifically to speak or sing by divine inspiration, whether in prediction or general discourse. In this context, it denotes the authoritative declaration of God's word concerning Zidon's future, emphasizing that the message is not Ezekiel's personal opinion but a direct, divinely revealed pronouncement.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Son of man,"**: This opening address immediately identifies the recipient of the divine command as Ezekiel, God's chosen prophet. It serves as a consistent reminder of his human nature and his unique, divinely appointed role as the conduit for God's weighty and authoritative word, setting the stage for the solemn pronouncement that follows.
* **"set thy face against Zidon,"**: This is a direct, imperative command issued to Ezekiel. The idiomatic phrase "setting one's face against" signifies a resolute, unwavering, and confrontational posture. It implies a focused and determined stance of impending judgment, indicating that God's attention is now firmly fixed on Zidon, and His judgment will be direct, unavoidable, and without compromise. Zidon (Sidon) is explicitly singled out as the specific target of this divine confrontation.
* **"and prophesy against it,"**: This is the core instruction to Ezekiel – to authoritatively deliver a divine message of judgment. The act of "prophesying" inherently implies speaking under direct divine inspiration, making the ensuing words not Ezekiel's own human opinions or observations, but the very word of God Himself. The concluding phrase "against it" powerfully reiterates the adversarial and condemnatory nature of the prophecy, confirming that the message will be one of condemnation and impending consequence for the city of Zidon.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent literary devices to convey its authoritative message. The most prominent is **Imperative** language, evident in the direct commands "set thy face" and "prophesy," which powerfully communicate the divine authority and urgent necessity of the message. The phrase "set thy face against" functions as a **Prophetic Formula** or idiom, signaling a direct, determined, and often confrontational act of judgment, a recurring motif in Ezekiel's pronouncements against both foreign nations and Israel. The address "**Son of man**" serves as a repeated **Designation** for Ezekiel throughout the book, emphasizing his humanity and his specific role as a mortal messenger delivering an immortal, divine word. This designation also subtly creates a **Contrast** between the frail, earthly prophet and the omnipotent, transcendent God whose word he faithfully delivers.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 28:21 profoundly asserts God's universal sovereignty, unequivocally demonstrating that His authority extends far beyond the covenant nation of Israel to encompass all nations and their rulers. This passage underscores the immutable principle that no nation, irrespective of its wealth, military power, or strategic importance, is exempt from divine scrutiny and ultimate accountability. Zidon's judgment, following the extensive prophecies against Tyre, powerfully illustrates that pride, deep-seated idolatry, and any form of opposition to God's righteous purposes or His people will inevitably face severe divine retribution. The meticulous and detailed nature of these prophecies serves as a stark reminder that God is not a distant, passive observer but is actively and intimately involved in the affairs of humanity, orchestrating history according to His righteous and sovereign will, ensuring that ultimate justice will always prevail over all earthly powers.

* [Isaiah 13:1-22](/isaiah/13-1 "Isaiah 13 - Prophecy Against Babylon") - A comprehensive and detailed prophecy illustrating God's absolute judgment over Babylon, a mighty world empire, demonstrating His supreme control over all nations.
* [Jeremiah 46:1-26](/jeremiah/46-1 "Jeremiah 46 - Prophecy Against Egypt") - Another powerful example of God's prophetic judgment against Egypt, a significant regional power, highlighting His perfect justice and universal sovereignty over all peoples.
* [Amos 1:3-2:3](/amos/1-3 "Amos 1:3-2:3 - Prophecies Against Damascus, Gaza, Tyre, Edom, Ammon, Moab") - A series of concise but impactful oracles against various nations surrounding Israel, showcasing God's universal moral standards and His impartial judgment against all unrighteousness.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel's divine command to "set thy face against Zidon, and prophesy against it" offers enduring and profound lessons for contemporary believers and societies. It serves as a powerful and sobering reminder that God's justice is not limited to the religious or the "chosen," but is universal and impartially applied, extending to all nations, governments, and powerful entities. In a world frequently dominated by economic might, political influence, and secular ideologies that deny divine authority, this passage compels us to remember that true, ultimate authority and accountability rest solely with God. For national and corporate leaders, it stands as a grave warning against the perils of pride, injustice, and the relentless pursuit of wealth or power at the expense of righteousness and human dignity. For individuals, it instills a deep confidence that God remains sovereign over all global events, and that despite the temporary triumph of unrighteousness, His ultimate justice will inevitably prevail. This passage challenges us to critically examine and align our lives and our societies with divine principles, understanding that self-exaltation and idolatry—whether of wealth, power, or even self—will ultimately lead to divine judgment.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific ways might modern societies or even individual lives subtly or overtly exhibit the pride, self-sufficiency, and idolatry that characterized ancient Zidon?**
* **How does the theological concept of God's universal sovereignty over nations profoundly impact your understanding and perspective on current global events and complex political landscapes?**
* **What practical lessons does Ezekiel's resolute stance in faithfully delivering God's challenging message teach us about cultivating courage and unwavering faithfulness in speaking truth, even when it is unpopular or confronts powerful entities?**

### FAQ
**Why did God single out Zidon for judgment, especially after Tyre had already received such extensive prophecies?**

Answer: Zidon was a profoundly prominent Phoenician city, a major maritime power, and a historical sister city to Tyre. While Tyre often receives more detailed prophetic attention due to its greater economic and political dominance in the region, Zidon was deeply intertwined with Tyre in terms of trade, cultural practices, and pervasive pagan worship. Its explicit inclusion in God's comprehensive judgments (see [Ezekiel 28:21-23](/ezekiel/28-21-23 "Ezekiel 28:21-23 - Prophecy Against Zidon")) demonstrates that its deeply ingrained pride, widespread idolatry (particularly of Baal and Asherah, which significantly influenced Israel), and its historical complicity in actions against God's people rendered it equally accountable before divine justice. God's judgment is comprehensive and meticulous, ensuring that no significant power or influential entity that opposes His righteousness, whether overtly or through its corrupting influence, escapes the consequences of its actions. The sequential nature of these prophecies powerfully highlights that no significant regional or global power would ultimately escape divine scrutiny and judgment.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Ezekiel 28:21 serves as a specific Old Testament prophecy of judgment against a pagan nation, its profound theological underpinnings find their ultimate and perfect fulfillment in the universal reign and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. The recurring "Son of man" designation, so frequently used for Ezekiel to emphasize his humanity as a divine messenger, finds its ultimate and perfect embodiment in Jesus, who consistently referred to Himself as the [Son of Man](/mark/10-45 "Mark 10:45 - The Son of Man Came to Serve"), thereby emphasizing both His true humanity and His unparalleled divine authority as the one appointed to judge and, crucially, to save. Just as Ezekiel was commanded to "set His face" against Zidon in a posture of judgment, Jesus, the true and perfect Son of Man, resolutely "set His face" towards Jerusalem, fully knowing He would face immense suffering and death, yet doing so to accomplish the greatest act of redemption for all humanity (as beautifully captured in [Luke 9:51](/luke/9-51 "Luke 9:51 - Jesus Resolves to Go to Jerusalem")). The judgment pronounced against Zidon foreshadows the final, universal judgment of all nations and individuals before the righteous throne of Christ, where every knee will ultimately bow and every tongue will confess His Lordship ([Philippians 2:10-11](/philippians/2-10 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Every Knee Will Bow Before Jesus")). Furthermore, the ultimate purpose of God's judgments, even against ancient pagan nations, is to reveal His glory and establish His just and eternal kingdom—a kingdom fully realized in Christ's triumphant reign, where all who believe, regardless of their earthly origin, find refuge, salvation, and eternal life within the light of the Lamb ([Revelation 21:24](/revelation/21-24 "Revelation 21:24 - Nations Walk by Its Light")).

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

Ezekiel 6:2

Son of man, set thy face toward the mountains of Israel, and prophesy against them,

Genesis 10:15

¶ And Canaan begat Sidon his firstborn, and Heth,

Ezekiel 25:2

Son of man, set thy face against the Ammonites, and prophesy against them;

Jeremiah 25:22

And all the kings of Tyrus, and all the kings of Zidon, and the kings of the isles which [are] beyond the sea,

Ezekiel 27:8

The inhabitants of Zidon and Arvad were thy mariners: thy wise [men], O Tyrus, [that] were in thee, were thy pilots.

Jeremiah 47:4

Because of the day that cometh to spoil all the Philistines, [and] to cut off from Tyrus and Zidon every helper that remaineth: for the LORD will spoil the Philistines, the remnant of the country of Caphtor.

Isaiah 23:12

And he said, Thou shalt no more rejoice, O thou oppressed virgin, daughter of Zidon: arise, pass over to Chittim; there also shalt thou have no rest.