Proclamation Against Egypt

Ezekiel 29:1–21
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This prophecy includes three sections, each of which closes with the words seen so often in Ezekiel, “then they will know that I am the Lord” (vv. 6a, 9, 16). This first of seven prophecies against Egypt was given almost a year after the siege of Jerusalem began (24:1-2).The Pharaoh in Egypt at that time was Hophra who reigned from 589 to 570 b.c. His promises of assistance prompted Judah to break with Babylon (vv. 1-6a). Pharaoh was considered a god; therefore he thought of himself as having created the Nile (v. 9). Pharaoh, however, would soon learn he was no match for the true Creator-God. God would defeat Egypt despite her great strength.

The second section of this prophecy deals with Egypt’s basic sin: she had been a staff of reeds for the house of Israel (vv. 6b-9). Israel leaned on Egypt for support in her revolt against Babylon, but Egypt’s support was as fragile as the reeds which grew abundantly on the Nile River’s shores. Egypt let her down (like a reed, she splintered and broke). This portion of Ezekiel’s prophecy discusses the extent of God’s judgment on Egypt (vv. 10-16). The desolation would extend from Migdol to Aswan. The Egyptians returned to their land, but they never achieved the power they once held.

The next verses indicate who would bring the judgment (vv. 17-21). Nebuchadnezzar himself would attack Egypt. This prophecy would take place after Israel was restored from captivity. Ezekiel would have been 83 when Cyrus’ edict to let Israel return to her land was issued. None of the post-exiled records refer to Ezekiel returning to Israel. The best explanation is that Ezekiel’s spoken prophecies which had perplexed the people would become clear when they were fulfilled.

Application

When truly wise people get closer to God, they recognize the need to depend on Him for guidance.  It is my desire to know Him better every day through His word, meditation and fellowship.