Ezekiel 29:11

No foot of man or beast will pass through, and it will be uninhabited for forty years.

Study Bible

The foot of man
This phrase signifies human presence and activity. In the Hebrew context, "foot" often symbolizes dominion or possession. The absence of man's foot indicates a complete cessation of human life and influence. Historically, this reflects the desolation that God prophesied over Egypt, emphasizing His sovereignty over nations and His ability to humble the proud.

will not pass through it
The phrase underscores total desolation. In ancient times, travel and trade routes were vital for a nation's prosperity. The absence of travelers or traders passing through signifies economic and social collapse. This prophecy serves as a warning of divine judgment, reminding believers of the consequences of turning away from God.

and the foot of beast
The mention of beasts highlights the extent of desolation. In a thriving land, animals are abundant, contributing to agriculture and daily life. Their absence indicates a barren, lifeless land. This imagery reinforces the severity of God's judgment, as even the natural order is disrupted.

will not pass through it
Reiterating the earlier phrase, this repetition emphasizes the totality of the desolation. It serves as a literary device to stress the certainty and completeness of the prophecy. For believers, it is a call to recognize the seriousness of God's warnings and the reality of His judgments.

It will be uninhabited
This phrase confirms the complete abandonment of the land. In biblical times, land was a sign of blessing and provision. An uninhabited land signifies the withdrawal of God's favor and protection. This serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of remaining faithful to God.

for forty years
The number forty in the Bible often symbolizes a period of testing, trial, or judgment. Examples include the Israelites' forty years in the wilderness and Jesus' forty days of fasting. Here, it indicates a divinely appointed period of judgment for Egypt. This timeframe offers hope for eventual restoration, reflecting God's mercy and the possibility of redemption after repentance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who ministered to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. He is the author of the book and delivers God's messages of judgment and restoration.

2. Egypt
A powerful nation in the ancient Near East, often seen as a symbol of worldly power and idolatry. In this context, Egypt is the subject of God's judgment.

3. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, representing the nation's pride and reliance on its own strength rather than on God.

4. Babylonian Exile
The period when the Israelites were taken captive by Babylon. This context is crucial for understanding the prophecies of Ezekiel.

5. Forty Years
A significant period in biblical terms, often associated with testing, judgment, and renewal (e.g., Israel's 40 years in the wilderness).

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God is in control of all nations and their destinies. No power, no matter how great, can stand against His will.

The Consequences of Pride
Egypt's downfall serves as a warning against pride and self-reliance. Nations and individuals must recognize their dependence on God.

The Purpose of Judgment
God's judgments are not arbitrary; they serve to correct, purify, and ultimately lead people back to Him.

The Significance of Forty Years
This period symbolizes a complete cycle of judgment and renewal. It invites reflection on personal and communal times of testing and growth.

Hope Beyond Judgment
Even in judgment, there is hope for restoration. God's ultimate plan is to bring redemption and renewal.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy against Egypt in Ezekiel 29:11 reflect God's sovereignty over all nations?

2. In what ways can the pride of Egypt serve as a warning for individuals and nations today?

3. How does the concept of "forty years" in biblical terms apply to personal spiritual journeys or periods of testing?

4. What parallels can be drawn between the judgment of Egypt and the fall of Babylon in Revelation 18?

5. How can understanding God's purpose in judgment help us respond to difficult circumstances in our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 19
This chapter also prophesies judgment against Egypt, highlighting the consistency of God's message through different prophets.

Jeremiah 46
Jeremiah's prophecy against Egypt parallels Ezekiel's, emphasizing the theme of divine judgment on nations that oppose God's will.

Exodus 7-12
The plagues of Egypt during the time of Moses serve as a historical backdrop for understanding God's power over Egypt and His ability to bring judgment.

Revelation 18
The fall of Babylon in Revelation can be seen as a parallel to the judgment on Egypt, symbolizing the ultimate downfall of worldly powers opposed to God.