Old Testament
Ezekiel 27:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Dedan traded with you in precious clothes for chariots.
Compare translations
Dedan was thy merchant in precious clothes for chariots.
What Ezekiel 27:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see Dedan, a region known for its trade, engaging in commerce with another party. They exchanged precious clothing, which was highly valued, for chariots, a symbol of power and mobility. This trade highlights the importance of luxury goods in ancient economies and the interconnectedness of different regions. The mention of chariots suggests that Dedan was not just trading for basic needs but was involved in a more sophisticated market. This exchange reflects the wealth and status associated with both the clothing and the chariots. It also illustrates how trade can build relationships between different cultures and nations. The verse serves as a reminder of the value placed on material goods and the lengths people go to acquire them. Ultimately, it shows how trade can influence power dynamics and social structures in society, making it a significant aspect of life in that era. Understanding these exchanges helps us appreciate the complexities of ancient economies and their relevance to our own world today.
How to apply Ezekiel 27:20 to your life
Consider how trade and relationships shape your life today. What are the 'goods' you value in your interactions with others? Reflect on the importance of building connections and how they can enhance your personal and professional life. Remember, every exchange can lead to growth and opportunity in your journey ahead.
Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Israel Enslaved in Egypt (Exodus 1:8–22)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Moses

Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Ezekiel 27:20
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Ezekiel 27:20
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Ezekiel
- Author
- Ezekiel the prophet
- Written
- Around 590 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ezekiel 27:20 mean?
Ezekiel 27:20 describes the trade relationship between Dedan and another party, highlighting how Dedan exchanged precious clothing for chariots. This verse illustrates the significance of luxury goods and trade in ancient economies.
What is the significance of Dedan in Ezekiel 27:20?
Dedan represents a trading region known for its commerce, emphasizing the importance of trade networks in the ancient world. Their involvement in trading luxury items like precious clothing indicates their economic status.
What does 'precious clothes' refer to in Ezekiel 27:20?
'Precious clothes' in Ezekiel 27:20 refers to high-value garments that were sought after in trade. These items symbolize wealth and luxury, reflecting the economic dynamics of the time.
What is the relationship between clothing and chariots in Ezekiel 27:20?
In Ezekiel 27:20, clothing and chariots represent different aspects of wealth and power. The trade of precious clothing for chariots shows how luxury goods were exchanged for items that symbolized mobility and status.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.