What does Ezekiel 28:3 mean?
"Behold, thou art wiser than Daniel; there is no secret that they can hide from thee:" - Ezekiel 28:3

Ezekiel 28:3 in the King James Version reads: "Behold, thou art wiser than Daniel; there is no secret that they can hide from thee."
This verse comes from a passage in the book of Ezekiel, in which the prophet is delivering a message of judgment against the ruler of Tyre. In this particular verse, the ruler is being addressed directly, and it is being pointed out that he fancies himself to be wiser than the renowned biblical figure, Daniel, and claims to have knowledge of every secret.
To fully understand the meaning and significance of this verse, it is important to consider the historical and cultural context in which it was written. The book of Ezekiel was written during the Babylonian exile, a time when the Israelites were taken captive by the Babylonians and forced to live in a foreign land. The prophecies of Ezekiel were intended to provide comfort and encouragement to the exiled Israelites, as well as to deliver messages of judgment to the surrounding nations.
In the case of the ruler of Tyre, he is being condemned for his arrogance and pride. He has exalted himself in his own wisdom and believes that there is no secret that can be hidden from him. This attitude is in direct opposition to the wisdom and sovereignty of God. The comparison to Daniel, who was renowned for his wisdom and ability to interpret dreams and visions, serves to highlight the ruler's delusion of grandeur.
The theme of pride and arrogance is a central one in the Bible, and is often associated with the downfall of individuals and nations. Proverbs 16:18 tells us that "Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall." The ruler of Tyre's boastful claims of wisdom and knowledge are ultimately a manifestation of his sinful pride, and his downfall is inevitable as a result.
The symbolism in this verse lies in the contrast between the ruler's perceived wisdom and the true wisdom that comes from God. Throughout the Bible, wisdom is presented as a gift from God, granted to the humble and the righteous. The ruler of Tyre's claim to be wiser than Daniel is a clear demonstration of his misplaced confidence in his own abilities, and his disregard for the wisdom that comes from God.
As we reflect on this verse, we are reminded of the importance of humility and the danger of pride. God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6). The ruler of Tyre's downfall serves as a sobering reminder that no one is wiser or more powerful than God, and that true wisdom comes from recognizing and submitting to His sovereignty.
In conclusion, Ezekiel 28:3 serves as a powerful warning against pride and self-exaltation. The ruler of Tyre's boastful claims of wisdom are ultimately empty and futile in the face of God's true wisdom and sovereignty. This verse reminds us of the importance of humility and the danger of pride, and encourages us to seek wisdom from God rather than from our own understanding.
Have questions about Ezekiel 28:3?
Dive deeper into this scripture with Bible Chat — an AI-powered tool for exploring God's Word through conversation. Ask questions, get context, and grow in your understanding of the Bible.
Get Our Apps
Ezekiel 28:3 Artwork
Ezekiel 28:3 - "Behold, thou art wiser than Daniel; there is no secret that they can hide from thee:"
"Behold, thou art wiser than Daniel; there is no secret that they can hide from thee:" - Ezekiel 28:3
Ezekiel 28:11-19
Ezekiel 28:11-19
Ezekiel 28:11-19
Ezekiel 28:11-19
Ezekiel 28:11-19
Ezekiel 28:11-19
Ezekiel 28:13
Ezekiel 1:1-28
Ezekiel 1:1-28
Ezekiel 1:1-28
Ezekiel 1:1-28
Ezekiel 1:1-28
Ezekiel 1:1-28
Ezekiel 1:1-28
Ezekiel 1:1-28
Ezekiel 1:4-28
Ezekiel 1:1-28
Ezekiel 1:4-28 – The vision of the four living creatures and the wheels.
Ezekiel 28:20 - "¶ Again the word of the LORD came unto me, saying,"
Ezekiel 28:1 - "The word of the LORD came again unto me, saying,"
Ezekiel 27:28 - "The suburbs shall shake at the sound of the cry of thy pilots."
Ezekiel 28:11 - "¶ Moreover the word of the LORD came unto me, saying,"
Ezekiel 28:21 - "Son of man, set thy face against Zidon, and prophesy against it,"
Ezekiel 1:4-28 – The vision of the four living creatures and the wheels.
Ezekiel 1:4-28 – The vision of the four living creatures and the wheels.
Job 28:3
Daniel 3:28
Job 28:3