Ezekiel 29:12

I will make the land of Egypt a desolation among desolate lands, and her cities will lie desolate for forty years among the ruined cities. And I will disperse the Egyptians among the nations and scatter them throughout the countries.

Study Bible

I will make the land of Egypt a desolation
This phrase speaks to the divine judgment pronounced by God through the prophet Ezekiel. The Hebrew word for "desolation" is "שְׁמָמָה" (shemamah), which conveys a sense of utter ruin and devastation. Historically, Egypt was a powerful and influential nation, often seen as a symbol of human pride and reliance on worldly power. God's declaration of making Egypt a desolation serves as a reminder of His sovereignty over nations and His ability to humble the proud. It underscores the biblical theme that reliance on anything other than God leads to destruction.

among devastated lands
The phrase "among devastated lands" places Egypt's impending desolation in the context of other nations that have faced similar judgments. The Hebrew root "שָׁמַם" (shamem) is used here, emphasizing the completeness of the devastation. This context serves as a warning to all nations that defy God's authority. It also reflects the historical reality of the ancient Near East, where empires rose and fell, often as a result of divine judgment. The phrase reminds believers of the transient nature of earthly power and the enduring nature of God's kingdom.

Her cities will lie desolate
The desolation of Egypt's cities signifies the collapse of its societal and economic structures. The Hebrew word for "cities" is "עִיר" (ir), which in ancient times were centers of culture, commerce, and governance. The desolation of these cities indicates a complete breakdown of the nation's infrastructure. This serves as a metaphor for the spiritual desolation that occurs when a society turns away from God. It is a call for repentance and a return to divine principles, highlighting the importance of building communities on a foundation of faith.

for forty years
The specific period of "forty years" is significant in biblical numerology, often symbolizing a period of testing, trial, or judgment. The number forty appears frequently in Scripture, such as the forty years of Israel's wandering in the desert. This period of desolation for Egypt is a time of divine discipline, intended to bring about repentance and restoration. It serves as a reminder of God's patience and His desire for nations to turn back to Him. The forty years also reflect a complete generation, indicating a thorough purging and renewal process.

scattered among the nations
The scattering "among the nations" indicates a dispersion of the Egyptian people, similar to the exile experienced by Israel. The Hebrew root "זָרָה" (zarah) conveys the idea of being spread out or dispersed. This scattering serves as both a punishment and a means of purification, as it forces the people to confront their reliance on false gods and worldly power. It is a call to return to the one true God, who is the source of all strength and security. This scattering also foreshadows the gathering of God's people from all nations, a theme fulfilled in the New Testament through the spread of the Gospel.

and dispersed throughout the lands
The phrase "dispersed throughout the lands" emphasizes the extent of Egypt's judgment. The Hebrew word "פָּרַשׂ" (paras) suggests a thorough spreading out, indicating that no part of the nation will be untouched by this divine decree. This dispersion serves as a humbling experience, stripping away the pride and self-reliance that characterized Egypt. It is a powerful reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the hope of restoration through repentance. The dispersion also points to the universal reach of God's sovereignty, as He works through all nations to accomplish His purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Egypt
A powerful ancient civilization known for its wealth and influence. In this context, Egypt is the subject of God's judgment due to its pride and reliance on its own strength rather than God.

3. Desolation
The state of being empty or destroyed. God declares that Egypt will become desolate, symbolizing His judgment and the consequences of their actions.

4. Forty Years
A significant period in biblical terms, often associated with testing, judgment, or a generation. Here, it represents the duration of Egypt's desolation.

5. Scattering of Egyptians
The dispersal of the Egyptian people among other nations, indicating a loss of national identity and strength.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God is in control of all nations, regardless of their power or influence. His plans and purposes will prevail, and He can humble any nation that exalts itself against Him.

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

The Purpose of Judgment
God's judgment is not merely punitive but serves to bring about repentance and restoration. It is a call to return to Him and acknowledge His authority.

Hope Beyond Desolation
Even in judgment, there is hope for restoration. God's ultimate desire is for reconciliation and healing, as seen in the broader biblical account.

The Importance of Obedience
Obedience to God brings blessings, while disobedience leads to consequences. This principle is consistent throughout Scripture and is exemplified in the fate of Egypt.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy against Egypt in Ezekiel 29:12 reflect God's sovereignty over all nations?

2. In what ways can the downfall of Egypt serve as a warning against pride in our personal lives?

3. How does the concept of a "forty-year" period of desolation relate to other biblical instances of forty years, and what can we learn from this?

4. What are some modern-day examples of nations or individuals experiencing consequences similar to those described in Ezekiel 29:12, and how should Christians respond?

5. How can the themes of judgment and restoration in Ezekiel 29:12 encourage us to seek God's mercy and grace in our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 46
This chapter also prophesies the downfall of Egypt, emphasizing God's sovereignty over nations and His ability to humble the proud.

Isaiah 19
Describes a future judgment on Egypt but also hints at eventual healing and restoration, showing God's ultimate plan for redemption.

Deuteronomy 28
Lists blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, including scattering among nations, which parallels the judgment on Egypt.