Ezekiel 29: The Pharaoh as Dragon – Judgment on Egypt and Its Gods

Executive Summary ✨

Ezekiel 29 unveils a powerful prophecy against Egypt, particularly targeting Pharaoh Hophra, whom God likens to a great dragon lurking in the Nile River. This chapter details the impending judgment on Egypt for its arrogance and reliance on its own power, rather than seeking God. The prophecy extends over a forty-year desolation, followed by a restoration, albeit to a diminished state. Key themes include divine sovereignty, the futility of earthly power when opposed to God, and the ultimate triumph of God’s will. This prophecy serves as a warning against pride and self-reliance, urging us to seek God’s protection and guidance in all aspects of our lives, understanding that all earthly kingdoms are ultimately under His authority, a truth which resonates deeply even today, urging us to find strength and solace in modern church technology.

This blog post provides a detailed verse-by-verse examination of Ezekiel 29, exploring its historical context, theological significance, and practical implications for modern Christians. We will delve into the Coptic Orthodox understanding of this prophecy, drawing upon the wisdom of the Church Fathers and connecting it to broader biblical themes of judgment, repentance, and God’s enduring faithfulness. The Focus Key Phrase for this study is: Judgment on Egypt.

Commentary Sections 📖

Ezekiel 29:1-2 (KJV and NKJV)

KJV: In the tenth year, in the tenth month, in the twelfth day of the month, the word of the LORD came unto me, saying, Son of man, set thy face against Pharaoh king of Egypt, and prophesy against him, and against all Egypt:

NKJV: In the tenth year, in the tenth month, on the twelfth day of the month, the word of the LORD came to me, saying, “Son of man, set your face against Pharaoh king of Egypt, and prophesy against him, and against all Egypt.

This passage establishes the timeframe of the prophecy – the tenth year of King Jehoiachin’s exile. This detail is crucial for understanding the historical context. The phrase “set thy face against Pharaoh” signifies a direct confrontation and a declaration of God’s judgment. It’s not merely a prediction, but an act of prophetic defiance against earthly power. We too must face evil squarely, relying on God’s strength.

Spiritual Application: We must not shy away from confronting injustice and falsehood in our own lives and in the world around us. Just as Ezekiel was called to set his face against Pharaoh, we are called to stand firm in our faith and speak truth to power, always remembering that our ultimate allegiance is to God.

Ezekiel 29:3 (KJV and NKJV)

KJV: Speak, and say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I am against thee, Pharaoh king of Egypt, the great dragon that lieth in the midst of his rivers, which hath said, My river is mine own, and I have made it for myself.

NKJV: Speak, and say, ‘Thus says the Lord GOD: “Behold, I am against you, O Pharaoh king of Egypt, O great monster who lies in the midst of his rivers, who has said, ‘My River is my own; I have made it for myself.’

Here, Pharaoh is described as a “great dragon” (תַּנִּים, tannin) – a monstrous creature symbolizing pride, power, and rebellion against God. The dragon image connects to ancient Near Eastern mythology, where dragons often represented chaotic forces. The phrase “My river is mine own, and I have made it for myself” encapsulates Pharaoh’s hubris, claiming self-sufficiency and denying God’s role as the ultimate source of all blessings.

Patristic Insight: St. Athanasius, in *Contra Gentes* (Κατὰ Ἐθνῶν), speaks of the folly of idolatry, stating, “They worship the creature rather than the Creator” (τὴν κτίσιν ἐσέβοντο παρὰ τὸν κτίσαντα). This applies directly to Pharaoh, who worshipped his own power and the Nile River itself, rather than the God who created them. The Nile became his idol, a source of false security.

Spiritual Application: We must be vigilant against the temptation to take credit for our achievements and to rely on our own abilities instead of acknowledging God’s grace. True humility recognizes that everything we have comes from Him. The “rivers” we rely on might be our careers, relationships, or material possessions – let us not forget their ultimate source.

Ezekiel 29:4-5 (KJV and NKJV)

KJV: But I will put hooks in thy jaws, and I will cause the fish of thy rivers to stick unto thy scales, and I will bring thee forth out of the midst of thy rivers, and all the fish of thy rivers shall stick unto thy scales. And I will leave thee thrown into the wilderness, thee and all the fish of thy rivers: thou shalt fall upon the open fields; thou shalt not be brought together, nor gathered: I have given thee for meat to the beasts of the field and to the fowls of the heaven.

NKJV: But I will put hooks in your jaws, and cause the fish of your rivers to stick to your scales; I will bring you up out of the midst of your rivers, and all the fish of your rivers will stick to your scales. I will leave you cast upon the open fields, and all the fish of your rivers; you shall fall on the open field; you shall not be picked up or gathered. I have given you as food to the beasts of the field and to the birds of the heavens.

The image of “hooks in thy jaws” vividly depicts God’s power to subdue even the mightiest of earthly rulers. The “fish of thy rivers” clinging to Pharaoh’s scales represent his allies and supporters, who will also suffer in his downfall. The abandonment in the wilderness and the consumption by beasts and birds symbolize utter humiliation and defeat. This is not just a military defeat, but a total stripping of dignity.

Spiritual Application: This passage serves as a stark reminder that God can humble even the proudest and most powerful individuals. It underscores the importance of recognizing our dependence on God and avoiding the arrogance that leads to destruction. Our actions have consequences, affecting not only ourselves but also those around us.

Ezekiel 29:6-7 (KJV and NKJV)

KJV: And all the inhabitants of Egypt shall know that I am the LORD, because they have been a staff of reed to the house of Israel. When they took hold of thee by thy hand, thou brakest, and rent all their shoulder: and when they leaned upon thee, thou brakest, and madest all their loins to be at a stand.

NKJV: Then all the inhabitants of Egypt shall know that I am the Lord, because they have been a staff of reed to the house of Israel. When they took hold of you with their hand, you broke, and tore all their shoulders; when they leaned on you, you broke, and made all their backs quiver.

Egypt is condemned not only for its own pride but also for being an unreliable ally to Israel – a “staff of reed.” This emphasizes the futility of relying on earthly powers instead of God. A reed is weak and easily broken, providing no real support. Egypt had promised assistance, but ultimately failed to deliver, causing further injury and instability to Israel. The phrase “all the inhabitants of Egypt shall know that I am the LORD” highlights the ultimate purpose of God’s judgment: to reveal His sovereignty to all nations.

Spiritual Application: We must be discerning in whom we place our trust. Ultimately, our reliance should be on God alone, who is the only steadfast and reliable source of strength and support. We should also strive to be trustworthy individuals, fulfilling our commitments and offering genuine assistance to those in need. This ties directly to the importance of faith in church mobile apps, offering steady support.

Ezekiel 29:8-12 (KJV and NKJV)

KJV: Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I will bring a sword upon thee, and cut off man and beast out of thee. And the land of Egypt shall be desolate and waste; and they shall know that I am the LORD: because he hath said, The river is mine, and I have made it. Therefore behold, I am against thee, and against thy rivers, and I will make the land of Egypt utterly waste and desolate, from Migdol to Syene, even unto the border of Ethiopia. It shall not be passed through, nor shall any man pass through it, neither shall any beast pass through it, forty years. And I will make the land of Egypt desolate in the midst of the countries that are desolate, and her cities among the cities that are laid waste shall be desolate forty years: and I will scatter the Egyptians among the nations, and will disperse them through the countries.

NKJV: Therefore thus says the Lord GOD: “Surely I will bring a sword upon you and cut off man and beast from you. And the land of Egypt shall become desolate and waste; then they will know that I am the Lord, because he said, ‘The River is mine, and I have made it.’ Surely, therefore, I am against you and against your rivers, and I will make the land of Egypt utterly waste and desolate, from Migdol to Syene, as far as the border of Ethiopia. Neither foot of man shall pass through it nor foot of beast shall pass through it, and it shall be uninhabited forty years. I will make the land of Egypt desolate among the countries that are desolate; and among the cities that are laid waste, her cities shall be desolate forty years; and I will scatter the Egyptians among the nations and disperse them throughout the countries.”

These verses detail the extent and duration of God’s judgment on Egypt: a forty-year desolation. This period of desolation mirrors other periods of judgment in the Old Testament, such as the forty years of wilderness wandering for the Israelites. The geographical boundaries, “from Migdol to Syene,” cover the entire length of Egypt. The desolation is described as complete, affecting both people and animals. The scattering of the Egyptians among the nations signifies the loss of their national identity and power. The reason for this Judgment on Egypt is repeated: Pharaoh’s arrogant claim to ownership of the Nile.

Spiritual Application: God’s judgment is just and proportionate. While He is merciful, He will not tolerate persistent pride and rebellion. This passage reminds us of the importance of repentance and humility before God. Desolation can come in many forms in our lives – loss of relationships, financial hardship, spiritual dryness. We must examine ourselves and turn back to God.

Ezekiel 29:13-16 (KJV and NKJV)

KJV: Yet thus saith the Lord GOD; At the end of forty years will I gather the Egyptians from the people whither they were scattered: And I will bring again the captivity of Egypt, and will cause them to return into the land of Pathros, into the land of their habitation; and they shall be there a base kingdom. It shall be the basest of the kingdoms; neither shall it exalt itself any more above the nations: for I will diminish them, that they shall no more rule over the nations. And it shall be no more the confidence of the house of Israel, which bringeth their iniquity to remembrance when they shall look after them: but they shall know that I am the Lord GOD.

NKJV: Yet thus says the Lord GOD: “At the end of forty years I will gather the Egyptians from the peoples among whom they were scattered. I will bring back the captives of Egypt, and cause them to return to the land of Pathros, to the land of their origin, and there they shall be a base kingdom. It shall be the lowliest of kingdoms; it shall never again exalt itself above the nations. For I will diminish them, so that they will not rule over the nations anymore. It shall no longer be a confidence for the house of Israel, but will remind them of their iniquity when they turned to follow them. Then they shall know that I am the Lord GOD.”

Despite the severity of the judgment, God promises restoration – but a limited one. After forty years, the Egyptians will be gathered and returned to their land, specifically “Pathros” (Upper Egypt). However, their kingdom will be “a base kingdom,” never again rising to its former glory. This signifies God’s mercy tempered with justice. Egypt will no longer be a temptation for Israel to rely on foreign powers instead of God. The purpose, again, is that “they shall know that I am the Lord GOD.”

Spiritual Application: God’s judgment is not always final. He offers opportunities for repentance and restoration, though the consequences of our actions may still linger. We must learn from our mistakes and avoid repeating them. The lesson for us is not just to avoid relying on unreliable allies, but to constantly examine the motivations behind our choices. Are we seeking God’s will, or are we seeking shortcuts to success and security?

Ezekiel 29:17-20 (KJV and NKJV)

KJV: And it came to pass in the seven and twentieth year, in the first month, in the first day of the month, the word of the LORD came unto me, saying, Son of man, Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon caused his army to serve a great service against Tyrus: every head was made bald, and every shoulder was peeled: yet had he no wages, nor his army, for Tyrus, for the service that he had served against it: Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I will give the land of Egypt unto Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon; and he shall take her multitude, and take her spoil, and take her prey; and it shall be the wages for his army. I have given him the land of Egypt for his labour wherewith he served against it, because they wrought for me, saith the Lord GOD.

NKJV: And it came to pass in the twenty-seventh year, in the first month, on the first day of the month, that the word of the Lord came to me, saying, “Son of man, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon caused his army to serve a great service against Tyre; every head was made bald, and every shoulder rubbed raw; yet he and his army received no wages from Tyre, for the service which they rendered against it.” Therefore thus says the Lord GOD: “Surely I will give the land of Egypt to Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon; he shall take away her wealth, carry off her spoil, and pillage her, and that will be the wages for his army. I have given him the land of Egypt as payment for his labor, because they worked for Me,” says the Lord GOD.

This section provides a further explanation of how the prophecy against Egypt will be fulfilled. Nebuchadnezzar, after a long and arduous siege of Tyre, received no spoils. God, in His sovereignty, will use Egypt as payment for Nebuchadnezzar’s labor, recognizing that even the actions of pagan kings can serve His purposes. God’s control over history is absolute, even utilizing seemingly unrelated events to accomplish His will.

Spiritual Application: God can use even the most unlikely individuals and circumstances to achieve His purposes. We may not always understand His plans, but we can trust that He is working all things together for good. We should also strive to be faithful in our own service to God, trusting that He will provide for our needs.

Ezekiel 29:21 (KJV and NKJV)

KJV: In that day will I cause the horn of the house of Israel to bud forth, and I will give thee the opening of the mouth in the midst of them; and they shall know that I am the LORD.

NKJV: In that day I will cause the horn of the house of Israel to grow back; and I will open your mouth in their midst, and they shall know that I am the Lord.

The chapter concludes with a promise of restoration for Israel. The “horn of the house of Israel” symbolizes strength and power. This restoration is linked to the fulfillment of the prophecy against Egypt, suggesting that God’s judgment on other nations ultimately serves to benefit His chosen people. The “opening of the mouth” refers to Ezekiel’s ability to speak God’s word boldly and effectively.

Spiritual Application: God’s ultimate goal is the restoration of His people. Even in the midst of judgment, He offers hope and promise. We should strive to be instruments of God’s grace, speaking His truth with boldness and compassion, and working towards the reconciliation of all people to Him.

Key Reflections ✨

Consider these points as you reflect on Ezekiel 29:

• God’s sovereignty is absolute, even over earthly kingdoms and rulers.
• Pride and self-reliance are dangerous and ultimately lead to downfall.
• God’s judgment is just and proportionate.
• Even in judgment, God offers opportunities for repentance and restoration.
• We must rely on God alone, not on unreliable earthly powers.
• God can use even the most unlikely individuals and circumstances to achieve His purposes.

FAQ ❓

• Q: Why is Pharaoh depicted as a dragon?

  A: The dragon imagery in Ezekiel 29 symbolizes Pharaoh’s pride, power, and rebellion against God. It connects to ancient Near Eastern mythology where dragons represented chaotic forces, highlighting Pharaoh’s defiance of divine order.

• Q: What is the significance of the forty-year desolation?

  A: The forty-year desolation mirrors other periods of judgment in the Old Testament and represents a significant period of divine discipline. It signifies a complete overturning of the existing order, meant to bring about repentance and a recognition of God’s sovereignty.

• Q: Why was Egypt punished for being an unreliable ally to Israel?

  A: Egypt’s unreliability highlights the futility of relying on earthly powers instead of God. It underscores the importance of placing our trust in God alone, who is the only steadfast and reliable source of strength and support. It was a failure to love the neighbor as oneself, as found in the Gospels.

• Q: What does this prophecy teach us about God’s character?

  A: Ezekiel 29 reveals God’s justice, sovereignty, and mercy. While He judges sin and pride, He also offers opportunities for repentance and restoration. This balance highlights the complexity and perfection of God’s character.

Conclusion 💡

Ezekiel 29 serves as a powerful reminder of God’s sovereignty and the futility of human pride. The prophecy against Egypt, and particularly the likening of Pharaoh to a defeated monster, illustrates the ultimate triumph of God’s will over earthly power. While the historical context is specific, the spiritual lessons are timeless. We are called to examine our own hearts, to guard against arrogance and self-reliance, and to place our trust solely in God. This Judgment on Egypt should encourage us to reflect on our own dependence on God, recognizing that all we have comes from Him. Let us strive for humility, faithfulness, and a deep reliance on God’s grace, remembering that He is the only true source of strength and security. Just as God used the desolation of Egypt to ultimately serve His purposes for Israel, He can work even the most challenging circumstances in our lives for our ultimate good and His glory.

Tags

Ezekiel, Prophecy, Egypt, Pharaoh, Judgment, Dragon, Nile River, Sovereignty, Pride, Restoration

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Explore Ezekiel 29’s prophecy of Judgment on Egypt. Uncover the spiritual lessons of pride, sovereignty, and restoration from this powerful biblical passage.