Ezekiel 32:16

This is the lament they will chant for her; the daughters of the nations will chant it. Over Egypt and all her multitudes they will chant it, declares the Lord GOD."

Study Bible

This is a lament
The word "lament" in Hebrew is "קִינָה" (qinah), which refers to a dirge or a song of mourning. In ancient Israel, laments were often composed to express profound grief and sorrow, typically over the death of individuals or the downfall of nations. This lament is not just a personal expression but a communal one, indicating the gravity of Egypt's fall. The use of lament highlights the seriousness of God's judgment and the deep sorrow that accompanies the loss of a once-great nation.

they will chant for her
The act of chanting, or "chant," suggests a rhythmic and repetitive vocal expression, often used in religious or solemn contexts. In the Hebrew tradition, chanting was a way to ensure that the message was remembered and internalized by the community. The "her" refers to Egypt, personifying the nation as a woman, which is a common biblical motif. This personification emphasizes the intimate and relational aspect of God's dealings with nations, as if they were individuals with whom He interacts directly.

the daughters of the nations
This phrase indicates that the lament is not limited to Israel but involves "the daughters of the nations," suggesting a broader, international recognition of Egypt's demise. In the ancient Near Eastern context, "daughters" often symbolized cities or smaller communities within a nation. This implies that the impact of Egypt's fall is so significant that it reverberates beyond its borders, affecting surrounding nations and their peoples.

will chant it
The repetition of "will chant it" underscores the certainty and inevitability of this lamentation. It is a prophetic declaration that the nations will indeed mourn Egypt's downfall. This repetition also serves to emphasize the communal and widespread nature of the lament, as it is not just a singular event but a collective response to God's judgment.

For Egypt and all her multitudes
"Egypt" here represents not only the geographical nation but also its cultural, political, and military might. The phrase "all her multitudes" refers to the vast population and the armies of Egypt, highlighting the comprehensive nature of the judgment. Historically, Egypt was a dominant power in the ancient world, known for its wealth, influence, and military strength. The mention of "multitudes" signifies that the judgment affects every aspect of Egyptian society, from the highest echelons of power to the common people.

they will chant it
The reiteration of this phrase serves to reinforce the prophetic certainty of the lament. It is a divine decree that the nations will respond to Egypt's fall with mourning. This repetition also highlights the solemnity and gravity of the situation, as the lament is not just a spontaneous reaction but a divinely orchestrated response to God's righteous judgment.

declares the Lord GOD
This phrase, "declares the Lord GOD," is a powerful affirmation of divine authority and sovereignty. In Hebrew, "Lord GOD" is "אֲדֹנָי יְהוִה" (Adonai Yahweh), emphasizing both the personal and covenantal name of God. This declaration assures the reader that the prophecy is not merely the words of Ezekiel but the authoritative pronouncement of God Himself. It underscores the certainty of the prophecy and the inevitability of its fulfillment, as it is backed by the ultimate authority of the Creator and Sustainer of all nations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who ministered to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. He is known for his vivid visions and symbolic actions.

2. Egypt
A powerful nation in the ancient Near East, often seen as a symbol of worldly power and opposition to God’s people.

3. Daughters of the Nations
This phrase refers to the women of various nations who would traditionally sing laments or dirges, especially in times of mourning or national tragedy.

4. The Lord GOD
The sovereign and covenant-keeping God of Israel, who declares judgment and redemption through His prophets.

5. Lament
A traditional form of mourning expressed through song or poetry, often used in the Bible to express sorrow over sin or impending judgment.

Teaching Points

The Sovereignty of God
God is in control of all nations and their destinies. His judgments are just and serve His greater purposes.

The Role of Lament
Lament is a biblical response to sin and judgment. It allows us to express sorrow and seek God’s mercy.

The Consequences of Pride
Egypt's downfall serves as a warning against pride and reliance on worldly power rather than God.

The Universality of God's Judgment
God's judgment is not limited to Israel but extends to all nations, emphasizing His authority over the entire world.

Hope Beyond Judgment
While judgment is certain, God’s ultimate plan includes redemption and restoration for those who turn to Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of lament in Ezekiel 32:16 help us understand the appropriate response to God's judgment in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the judgment of Egypt serve as a warning to modern nations and individuals who rely on their own strength?

3. How can we apply the concept of God's sovereignty over nations to current global events and our personal lives?

4. What are some practical ways we can incorporate lament into our spiritual practices, especially when facing personal or communal sin?

5. How does the theme of hope beyond judgment in the Bible encourage us to trust in God's ultimate plan for redemption?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 46
This chapter also contains prophecies against Egypt, highlighting the theme of God's judgment on nations that oppose His will.

Isaiah 19
Isaiah prophesies about Egypt's future, including both judgment and eventual healing, showing God's sovereignty over all nations.

Revelation 18
The fall of Babylon in Revelation echoes the themes of lament and judgment found in Ezekiel, illustrating the ultimate downfall of worldly powers opposed to God.