Ezekiel 32:5

I will put your flesh on the mountains and fill the valleys with your remains.

Study Bible

I will put
This phrase indicates a deliberate action by God, emphasizing His sovereignty and control over the events that are to unfold. In the Hebrew text, the verb used here is "נָתַתִּי" (natati), which conveys the idea of placing or setting something in a specific position. This reflects God's authority to execute judgment and His active role in the unfolding of His divine plan. It serves as a reminder of God's power and the certainty of His decrees.

your flesh
The term "flesh" in this context refers to the physical body, symbolizing the mortality and vulnerability of human beings. In Hebrew, the word is "בָּשָׂר" (basar), which can also denote the idea of weakness and the transient nature of life. This imagery underscores the ultimate fate of those who oppose God, highlighting the futility of human pride and strength when set against divine will.

on the mountains
Mountains in biblical literature often symbolize strength, stability, and permanence. However, in this context, they become the stage for displaying the consequences of rebellion against God. The Hebrew word "הָרִים" (harim) is used here, and it evokes the image of a vast, open space where the remains are exposed for all to see. This serves as a stark reminder of the public nature of God's judgment and the lesson it imparts to all who witness it.

and fill the valleys
Valleys, in contrast to mountains, are often seen as places of refuge or hiding. The Hebrew word "גֵּאָיוֹת" (geayot) is used here, suggesting low-lying areas that are now overwhelmed with the remains of the fallen. This imagery conveys the totality of God's judgment, leaving no place untouched or hidden from His reach. It speaks to the comprehensive nature of divine justice, where every aspect of creation is involved in the execution of His righteous decrees.

with your remains
The word "remains" refers to what is left after destruction, emphasizing the finality and completeness of God's judgment. In Hebrew, "פִּגְרָתֶךָ" (pigratekha) is used, which can also mean carcasses or corpses. This stark imagery serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and rebellion against God. It highlights the seriousness of divine judgment and the ultimate accountability that all creation has before the Creator.

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. Pharaoh of Egypt
The subject of this prophecy, representing the nation of Egypt. Pharaoh is depicted as a great sea monster, symbolizing his power and pride.

3. Mountains and Valleys
Symbolic locations representing the vastness of the destruction that will befall Egypt. Mountains often symbolize strength and stability, while valleys can represent low points or places of judgment.

4. Babylonian Exile
The historical context in which Ezekiel prophesied. The Israelites were in captivity, and God used Ezekiel to communicate His messages of judgment and hope.

5. Judgment of Nations
A recurring theme in Ezekiel, where God pronounces judgment on various nations, including Egypt, for their pride and opposition to His people.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God is in control of all nations and their leaders. No power is beyond His reach or judgment.

The Consequences of Pride
Pharaoh's downfall serves as a warning against pride and self-reliance. God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.

The Certainty of God's Judgment
God's pronouncements through His prophets are sure and will come to pass. We must take His warnings seriously.

Hope Amidst Judgment
Even in judgment, God’s ultimate plan is to bring about redemption and restoration for His people.

The Call to Repentance
The destruction of Egypt serves as a call to repentance for all who oppose God. We are invited to turn to Him and find mercy.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of mountains and valleys in Ezekiel 32:5 enhance our understanding of the scope of God's judgment on Egypt?

2. In what ways does the judgment of Egypt in Ezekiel 32 parallel the judgment of other nations in the Bible, such as in Isaiah 34 or Jeremiah 46?

3. How can we apply the lessons of pride and humility from Pharaoh's downfall to our own lives today?

4. What does Ezekiel 32:5 teach us about the nature of God's sovereignty and His control over world events?

5. How can the themes of judgment and hope in Ezekiel 32 encourage us in our personal walk with God, especially in times of difficulty or uncertainty?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 34
This chapter also speaks of God's judgment on nations, using similar imagery of desolation and destruction.

Jeremiah 46
Jeremiah prophesies against Egypt, echoing the themes of judgment found in Ezekiel 32.

Revelation 19
The imagery of flesh and remains is reminiscent of the final judgment where the enemies of God are defeated.