Old Testament
Ezekiel 27:15
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, we see the bustling trade relationships that existed in ancient times.
- Author
- Ezekiel the prophet
- Written
- Around 590 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
The men of Dedan traded with you, and many coastlands were your customers. They paid you with ivory tusks and ebony.
The men of Dedan were thy merchants; many isles were the merchandise of thine hand: they brought thee for a present horns of ivory and ebony.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see the bustling trade relationships that existed in ancient times. The men of Dedan were merchants who engaged in commerce with a powerful trading partner. They brought valuable goods like ivory tusks and ebony, which were highly prized materials. This exchange highlights the importance of trade in building connections between different cultures and regions. The mention of coastlands as customers indicates a wide-reaching network of trade, showing how interconnected the world was even then. Such relationships were not just about goods; they were about trust and mutual benefit. This verse reminds us of the value of collaboration and the impact of trade on society's prosperity. It also reflects how resources can create bonds between people, transcending geographical boundaries. Understanding these dynamics can help us appreciate the complexities of our own economic interactions today, where trade continues to shape our lives and relationships in profound ways.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Ezekiel 27:15 to your life
Consider how trade and relationships shape your life. What connections do you have that enrich your experiences? Look for opportunities to collaborate with others, sharing resources and skills to create mutual benefits. Remember, every interaction can lead to growth and understanding in your community or workplace. Embrace the spirit of partnership!
Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ezekiel 27:15 mean?
Ezekiel 27:15 describes the trade relationships of ancient times, specifically highlighting the merchants from Dedan who traded valuable goods like ivory and ebony with a powerful trading partner. This verse illustrates the significance of commerce in connecting different cultures and regions.
What is the significance of ivory and ebony in Ezekiel 27:15?
Ivory and ebony were highly prized materials in ancient trade, symbolizing wealth and luxury. Their mention in Ezekiel 27:15 emphasizes the value of these goods and the prosperous trade networks that existed during that time.
Who were the men of Dedan in Ezekiel 27:15?
The men of Dedan were merchants known for their trading activities, particularly in luxury goods. In Ezekiel 27:15, they are depicted as key players in the trade network, contributing to the economic prosperity of their trading partners.
How does Ezekiel 27:15 reflect on trade and relationships?
Ezekiel 27:15 illustrates how trade was essential for building relationships between different cultures. The exchange of valuable goods like ivory and ebony signifies trust and mutual benefit, showcasing the interconnectedness of ancient societies.

The Book of Ezekiel
Ezekiel 1: Visions of God
The word of the LORD comes to Ezekiel the priest, the son of Buzi, by the river Chebar in the land of the Chaldeans. He sees visions of God as the heavens open. A great cloud comes from the north with a fire flashing continually and brightness around it, and from the midst appears something like glowing metal. From the fire emerge four living creatures, each with the likeness of a man. Each has four faces and four wings, and their legs are straight with feet like a calf's foot, shining like polished brass. Their faces are those of a man, a lion, an ox, and an eagle, and their wings are joined one to another as they move straight forward without turning.
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