(30) Against thee.--Rather, over thee. The commercial nations were not inimical to Tyre, but rather caused their wail for her to be heard over the seas where she had been engulphed. The usual signs of mourning are poetically attributed to them (Ezekiel 27:30-31), and then a dirge is put in their mouths (Ezekiel 27:32-34).
27:26-36 The most mighty and magnificent kingdoms and states, sooner or later, come down. Those who make creatures their confidence, and rest their hopes upon them, will fall with them: happy are those who have the God of Jacob for their Help, and whose hope is in the Lord their God, who lives for ever. Those who engage in trade should learn to conduct their business according to God's word. Those who possess wealth should remember they are the Lord's stewards, and should use his goods in doing good to all. Let us seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness.
And shall cause their voice to be heard against thee,.... The rulers and governors of the city, for having taken a false step in provoking the enemy, and then holding out the siege no longer, as it was thought they might and would: or rather "over thee", or, "for thee" (h); mourning over the city, and lamenting its sad case; see Revelation 18:9,
and shall cry bitterly; with great weeping, howling, and shrieking:
and they shall cast dust upon their heads; a custom used in the eastern countries, in time of mourning and sorrow; see Revelation 18:19,
and they shall wallow themselves in ashes: or roll themselves in them, another custom used in mourning; see Jeremiah 6:26.
and shall cry bitterly; with great weeping, howling, and shrieking:
and they shall cast dust upon their heads; a custom used in the eastern countries, in time of mourning and sorrow; see Revelation 18:19,
and they shall wallow themselves in ashes: or roll themselves in them, another custom used in mourning; see Jeremiah 6:26.
(h) "de te", Junius & Tremellius, Polanus, "super te"; Piscator, Cocceius, Starckius.