◄ Ezekiel 31 ►
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Egypt Will Fall like Assyria 1In the eleventh year, on the first day of the third month, the word of the LORD came to me, saying, 2“Son of man, say to Pharaoh king of Egypt and to his multitude: ‘Who can be compared to your greatness? 3Look at Assyria, a cedar in Lebanon, with beautiful branches that shaded the forest. It towered on high; its top was among the clouds. 4The waters made it grow; the deep springs made it tall, directing their streams all around its base and sending their channels to all the trees of the field. 5Therefore it towered higher than all the trees of the field. Its branches multiplied, and its boughs grew long as it spread them out because of the abundant waters. 6All the birds of the air nested in its branches, and all the beasts of the field gave birth beneath its boughs; all the great nations lived in its shade. 7It was beautiful in its greatness, in the length of its limbs, for its roots extended to abundant waters. 8The cedars in the garden of God could not rival it; the cypressesa could not compare with its branches, nor the plane treesb match its boughs. No tree in the garden of God could compare with its beauty. 9I made it beautiful with its many branches, the envy of all the trees of Eden, which were in the garden of God.’ 10Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Since it became greatc in height and set its top among the clouds,d and it grew proud on account of its height, 11I delivered it into the hand of the ruler of the nations, for him to deal with it according to its wickedness. I have banished it. 12Foreigners, the most ruthless of the nations, cut it down and left it. Its branches have fallen on the mountains and in every valley; its boughs lay broken in all the earth’s ravines. And all the peoples of the earth left its shade and abandoned it. 13All the birds of the air nested on its fallen trunk, and all the beasts of the field lived among its boughs. 14This happened so that no other trees by the waters would become great in height and set their tops among the clouds, and no other well-watered trees would reach them in height. For they have all been consigned to death, to the depths of the earth, among the mortals who descend to the Pit.’ 15This is what the Lord GOD says: ‘On the day it was brought down to Sheol, I caused mourning. I covered the deep because of it; I held back its rivers; its abundant waters were restrained. I made Lebanon mourn for it, and all the trees of the field fainted because of it. 16I made the nations quake at the sound of its downfall, when I cast it down to Sheol with those who descend to the Pit. Then all the trees of Eden, the choicest and best of Lebanon, all the well-watered trees, were consoled in the earth below. 17They too descended with it to Sheol, to those slain by the sword. As its allies they had lived in its shade among the nations. 18Who then is like you in glory and greatness among the trees of Eden? You also will be brought down to the depths of the earth to be with the trees of Eden. You will lie among the uncircumcised, with those slain by the sword. This is Pharaoh and all his multitude, declares the Lord GOD.’” Footnotes: 8 a Or pines or junipers or firs 8 b Possibly chestnut or juniper 10 c Hebrew you became great 10 d Or through the thick boughs Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Ezekiel 31 Summary Egypt Will Fall like Assyria Verses 1–2 – Date and Addressee On the first day of the third month of the eleventh year, the word of the LORD comes to Ezekiel, directing him to speak against Pharaoh and all Egypt. Verses 3–9 – Assyria: The Lofty Cedar Assyria is pictured as a magnificent cedar in Lebanon, towering above all other trees, fed by abundant waters, providing shade for beasts and nesting places for birds. No garden tree can rival its splendor because God Himself made it beautiful. Verses 10–13 – Felled for Pride Because the cedar exalted itself in height, God handed it over to “the most ruthless of nations.” Foreigners cut it down; its branches lie in the valleys, and every creature abandons its shade. Verse 14 – Warning to the Nations The downfall is meant to keep any well-watered tree from lifting itself in pride. All who are lofty will be delivered to death, to the depths of the earth. Verses 15–17 – Shock in the Underworld The day Assyria went to Sheol, God made the deep mourn, held back its rivers, and clothed Lebanon in gloom. The nations shook at its crash, and trees of Eden comforted themselves as they too descended to the pit. Verse 18 – Application to Egypt Pharaoh and his hordes are asked, “To which of the trees of Eden can you be compared?” Egypt will lie among the uncircumcised, slain by the sword—just like Assyria. Ezekiel 31 is a profound chapter filled with vivid metaphors and stern warnings. God delivers a message to Ezekiel, commanding him to convey a prophecy to Pharaoh and all of Egypt. Through the metaphor of Assyria represented as a majestic cedar, God underscores the catastrophic consequences of arrogance and defiance against His sovereignty. Historical Setting • Date: June 21, 587 BC (most scholars) during the final throes of Jerusalem’s siege. • Ruler: Pharaoh Hophra (Apries) of Egypt’s 26th Dynasty, claiming to rescue Judah but soon to face Babylon himself (Jeremiah 44:30). • Assyria: Once unmatched (9th–7th centuries BC), its capital Nineveh fell in 612 BC. By Ezekiel’s day only memories remained, yet the prophet uses Assyria’s fall as a fresh object lesson for Egypt. The Cedar Analogy in the Ancient World Cedars of Lebanon grew up to 120 ft (37 m). Kings prized the wood for palaces and ships (1 Kings 5:6). Assyrian reliefs show log rafts floated down the Orontes River—imagery the original audience knew well. By comparing Assyria to a cedar, God highlights unmatched height, strength, and desirability, then shows how quickly it can be chopped down (Psalm 92:12–13 vs. Isaiah 2:12–17). Pride before a Fall 1. Height brought hubris: “Because it towered high… its heart was exalted in its height” (v 10). 2. Divine response: “I will give it into the hand of the ruler of the nations” (v 11). God, not Babylon, is the ultimate lumberjack (Proverbs 16:18). 3. Universal principle: No nation can outgrow God’s oversight (Job 12:23; Acts 17:26). Links to Other Prophecies • Tree-dream of Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 4) mirrors the cedar: height, birds, beasts, sudden felling. • Isaiah’s taunt of the king of Assyria (Isaiah 10:33-34) and the “fallen cedar” of Isaiah 14:8 echo here. • Egypt’s coming doom parallels earlier oracles (Ezekiel 29:1-16; 30:1-26) and Jeremiah’s warning in Jeremiah 46. Archaeological Notes • Cuneiform tablets (Babylonian Chronicle) record Assyria’s defeat and Babylon’s later campaign against Egypt at Carchemish (605 BC). • Egyptian stelae of Hophra boast of Nile defenses; yet Babylon broke those barriers by 568 BC. • Excavations at Nineveh reveal palace walls once carved with cedars—now rubble, matching Ezekiel’s imagery of shattered branches. Theological Themes in Plain Language God Rules Nations: Kingdoms rise because He waters them; they fall when He withholds the deep (v 15; Romans 13:1). Human Pride Is Deadly: Assyria illustrates how self-exaltation invites God’s axe (James 4:6). Shared Fate of Rebels: Egypt will lie “among the uncircumcised” (v 18), a blunt way of saying no worldly power escapes judgment (Revelation 19:17-18). Practical Insights for Today • Success comes from God’s hidden springs. Thank Him rather than brag. • Learn from history—yours and others’. Re-living Assyria’s arrogance leads to Assyria’s end. • National security, wealth, or heritage cannot replace humble obedience to the Creator (Micah 6:8). Key Cross-References Psalm 1:3 – The righteous tree contrasted with the wicked cedar. Proverbs 11:28 – “Those who trust in riches will fall.” Jeremiah 50:31 – “Behold, I am against you, O arrogant one.” Luke 14:11 – “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled.” Memorable Passages from Ezekiel 31 v 3 – “Behold, Assyria was a cedar in Lebanon with beautiful branches and forest shade.” v 10 – “Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: Because it towered high… its heart was exalted.” v 18 – “Yet you will be brought down with the trees of Eden to the depths of the earth… This is Pharaoh and all his multitude.” Connections to Additional Scriptures Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. This verse reinforces the theme of pride leading to downfall. Daniel 4:37 Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and exalt and glorify the King of heaven, for all His works are true and all His ways are just. And He is able to humble those who walk in pride. This passage highlights God's ability to humble the proud. Isaiah 2:12 For the LORD of Hosts has a day in store against all the proud and lofty, against all that is exalted—it will be humbled. This verse echoes the message of God's judgment against pride. Teaching Points The Allegory of the Cedar Tree Ezekiel 31:3-9 describes Assyria as a magnificent cedar in Lebanon, symbolizing its former glory and power. This imagery is used to draw a parallel with Egypt, warning them of their impending downfall. The Danger of Pride In verses 10-14, God explains that the cedar's downfall was due to its pride. Because it towered high and set its top among the clouds, and it was proud of its height, (Ezekiel 31:10). Pride leads to destruction, a theme consistent throughout Scripture. God's Sovereignty The chapter emphasizes that God is in control of the rise and fall of nations. I handed it over to the ruler of the nations, for him to deal with according to its wickedness. I have banished it, (Ezekiel 31:11). This serves as a reminder that no earthly power is beyond God's authority. The Inevitable Fall Verses 15-18 describe the cedar's fall and its impact on the surrounding nations. This illustrates the far-reaching consequences of a nation's downfall and serves as a warning to those who might follow in its footsteps. Practical Applications Guard Against Pride Reflect on areas in your life where pride may have taken root. Seek humility and remember that all achievements are ultimately by God's grace. Acknowledge God's Sovereignty In times of uncertainty, trust in God's control over world events and personal circumstances. He is the ultimate ruler over all. Learn from History Study the rise and fall of nations and leaders in history and Scripture to understand the consequences of pride and disobedience to God. People 1. Pharaoh, King of Egypt The chapter is addressed to Pharaoh, representing the nation of Egypt. Pharaoh is warned through the allegory of the cedar tree about the impending judgment and downfall due to pride and arrogance. The text begins with a direct address to Pharaoh: "Son of man, say to Pharaoh king of Egypt and to his multitude..." (Ezekiel 31:2). 2. Assyria Assyria is depicted as a mighty cedar tree in Lebanon, symbolizing its former greatness and power. The chapter describes how Assyria was once exalted above all other trees, representing nations, but ultimately fell due to its pride. This serves as a warning to Egypt. The text states: "Consider Assyria, once a cedar in Lebanon..." (Ezekiel 31:3). 3. The Nations While not a specific person, the "nations" are mentioned as those who were in awe of Assyria's greatness and later witnessed its downfall. This serves as a broader warning to all nations about the consequences of pride. The text refers to the nations in the context of witnessing the fall: "All the trees of Eden, the choicest and best of Lebanon, all the trees that were well-watered, were consoled in the earth below" (Ezekiel 31:16). In this chapter, the allegorical language focuses on the themes of pride, downfall, and the sovereignty of God over nations. The Hebrew roots emphasize the imagery of trees and forests, which are often used in the Old Testament to symbolize strength and prosperity. Places 1. Lebanon In Ezekiel 31:3, Lebanon is mentioned as the place where the cedar tree, representing Assyria, is planted. The cedars of Lebanon were renowned for their height and strength, symbolizing the might and majesty of Assyria. The Hebrew word for Lebanon is "לְבָנוֹן" (Levanon), which is often associated with its famous cedar trees. 2. Eden In Ezekiel 31:9, Eden is referenced as the garden of God, where the trees envied the cedar. This alludes to the original paradise, symbolizing a place of beauty and divine favor. The Hebrew word for Eden is "עֵדֶן" (Eden), which means "delight" or "pleasure." 3. Assyria While not a geographical location in the traditional sense, Assyria is personified as the great cedar tree in the allegory. Assyria's historical empire was located in the region of Mesopotamia, which is modern-day Iraq. The Hebrew name for Assyria is "אַשּׁוּר" (Ashur). Events 1. Introduction of the Allegory (Ezekiel 31:1-2) The word of the LORD comes to Ezekiel in the eleventh year, in the third month, on the first day, instructing him to speak to Pharaoh, king of Egypt, and his multitude. The LORD asks, "Whom are you like in your greatness?" 2. Comparison to Assyria (Ezekiel 31:3-9) Assyria is described as a cedar in Lebanon, with beautiful branches, overshadowing the forest, and towering high. The tree is nourished by abundant waters, symbolizing its prosperity and strength. The passage highlights its beauty and the envy it inspires among other trees, representing nations. 3. The Fall of the Great Tree (Ezekiel 31:10-14) Due to its pride and height, the LORD decrees that the tree will be cut down. Foreigners, the most ruthless of nations, will cut it down and leave it. This symbolizes the downfall of Assyria due to its arrogance, serving as a warning to Egypt. 4. The Tree's Descent to the Pit (Ezekiel 31:15-17) The LORD describes the mourning of the nations at the fall of the tree. The tree is brought down to Sheol, the realm of the dead, where it joins other fallen nations. This illustrates the inevitable judgment and humbling of proud nations. 5. Conclusion and Warning to Egypt (Ezekiel 31:18) The chapter concludes with a rhetorical question, asking which of the trees of Eden can be compared to the fallen tree in glory and greatness. It serves as a direct warning to Pharaoh and Egypt, emphasizing that they too will be brought down to the depths of the earth. Lessons from Ezekiel 31 1. The Majesty of God's Creation Ezekiel 31 paints a vivid picture of a mighty cedar tree, symbolizing the grandeur of God's creation. This imagery reminds us of the beauty and complexity of the world Yahweh has crafted. As we marvel at nature, we are reminded of Psalm 19:1, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands." Let this inspire us to appreciate and steward the earth with gratitude and responsibility. 2. The Danger of Pride The chapter warns against the pride that led to the downfall of Assyria, likened to the towering cedar. Pride can blind us to our dependence on God, as Proverbs 16:18 warns, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." Let us remain humble, acknowledging that all we have is a gift from our Creator. 3. The Sovereignty of God Ezekiel 31 emphasizes God's control over nations and nature. Just as He raised and brought down the cedar, He holds authority over all. This reassures us that no matter the chaos around us, God is in control. As Romans 8:28 reminds us, "And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him." 4. The Importance of Rootedness The cedar's strength came from its deep roots, symbolizing the importance of being firmly grounded in faith. Colossians 2:7 encourages us to be "rooted and built up in Him, established in the faith." By immersing ourselves in Scripture and prayer, we can withstand life's storms. 5. The Inevitability of Judgment Ezekiel 31 serves as a sobering reminder that God's judgment is certain. The fall of the cedar represents the fate of those who turn away from Him. Hebrews 9:27 states, "Just as man is appointed to die once, and after that to face judgment." Let this motivate us to live righteously and share the Gospel with urgency. 6. The Call to Repentance The chapter implicitly calls for repentance, urging us to turn from sin and seek God's mercy. 2 Chronicles 7:14 promises, "If My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land." 7. The Transience of Earthly Power The fall of the mighty cedar illustrates the fleeting nature of earthly power and success. Psalm 103:15-16 reminds us, "As for man, his days are like grass... the wind passes over it, and it is gone." Let us invest in eternal treasures, focusing on God's kingdom rather than worldly accolades. 8. The Role of Prophets Ezekiel's role as a prophet highlights the importance of speaking God's truth, even when it's uncomfortable. As believers, we are called to be salt and light, sharing the message of salvation with boldness. 2 Timothy 4:2 urges us to "preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season." 9. The Assurance of God's Presence Despite the judgment depicted, God's presence remains a constant. He is with us in every circumstance, offering comfort and guidance. Isaiah 41:10 reassures us, "Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God." 10. The Hope of Restoration Finally, Ezekiel 31 points to the hope of restoration. Though the cedar fell, God's plan for redemption through Christ offers new life. Revelation 21:5 declares, "Behold, I am making all things new." This hope encourages us to persevere, knowing that God's ultimate plan is one of renewal and eternal joy. Topics 1. The Parable of the Cedar of Lebanon Ezekiel 31 begins with a parable comparing the greatness of Assyria to a majestic cedar in Lebanon. The cedar symbolizes strength and prominence, as described in verses 3-9. The Hebrew word for cedar, "אֶרֶז" (erez), emphasizes its grandeur and stature. 2. The Fall of the Great Tree Verses 10-14 describe the downfall of the great tree due to its pride. God declares that because of its haughtiness, it will be cut down. This serves as a warning against pride and self-exaltation, reflecting the Hebrew concept of "גָּאוֹן" (ga'on), meaning arrogance or pride. 3. The Lamentation over the Fallen Tree In verses 15-17, a lamentation is pronounced over the fallen tree, symbolizing the mourning of nations over Assyria's downfall. The imagery of the tree descending to Sheol (the grave) highlights the finality of divine judgment. 4. The Lesson for Other Nations The chapter concludes in verse 18 with a lesson for other nations, warning them of the consequences of pride and self-reliance. The rhetorical question posed emphasizes that no nation, regardless of its power, is immune to God's judgment. Themes 1. Pride and Downfall The chapter begins with a parable about the Assyrian empire, symbolized by a majestic cedar tree. This imagery highlights the theme of pride leading to downfall. The tree's grandeur and height represent Assyria's arrogance and self-exaltation. The Hebrew word for "pride" (גָּאוֹן, ga'on) is often associated with haughtiness that precedes destruction. 2. Divine Sovereignty God's control over nations is a central theme. The Lord declares, "I made it beautiful with abundant branches" (Ezekiel 31:9), emphasizing that any greatness comes from God. This reflects the Hebrew understanding of God's sovereignty (מֶלֶךְ, melek) over creation and history. 3. Judgment and Humiliation The theme of divine judgment is evident as God decrees the downfall of the proud cedar: "I will hand it over to the ruler of the nations" (Ezekiel 31:11). This illustrates the biblical principle that God humbles the exalted, a recurring theme in the Hebrew Scriptures. 4. Transience of Earthly Glory The imagery of the fallen tree serves as a metaphor for the fleeting nature of earthly power and glory. The text states, "All the trees of Eden...were consoled in the earth below" (Ezekiel 31:16), reminding readers of the temporary nature of human achievements. 5. Warning to Other Nations The chapter serves as a cautionary tale for other nations, particularly Egypt, as indicated in the opening verse. The downfall of Assyria is a warning against pride and self-reliance, urging nations to recognize their dependence on God. 6. Restoration and Hope While the chapter primarily focuses on judgment, the broader context of Ezekiel includes themes of restoration and hope. The fall of the cedar is not the end, as God's ultimate plan includes redemption and renewal for His people. Prayer Points Pray for Humility Ask God to reveal any areas of pride in your life and to cultivate a spirit of humility. Pray for Leaders Intercede for world leaders, that they may recognize God's sovereignty and lead with humility and wisdom. Pray for Trust in God's Plan Seek God's peace and assurance in His control over global and personal events, trusting in His perfect plan. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can Ezekiel 31:3 liken Assyria to a cedar “taller than all the trees,” when historical or archaeological evidence doesn't support such an exaggerated greatness? 2. In Ezekiel 31:6, is the claim that “all the birds of the heavens” nested in its boughs to be taken literally, and if so, is it biologically plausible? 3. Why does Ezekiel 31:10–11 depict the downfall of this mighty tree (Assyria) in a manner that seems inconsistent with known historical records of Assyria’s decline? 4. How does Ezekiel 31 fit chronologically within the wider narrative of Babylonian conquest, and are there any historical inconsistencies? 5. Why do some details, like the global reach of the cedar, seem overstated or impossible if this chapter is a warning or prophecy about ancient Mesopotamia? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the metaphor of Assyria as a cedar tree enhance your understanding of its power and status during its prime? 2. How do the images of nature used in this chapter reflect the themes of pride, downfall, and judgement? 3. In what ways does the fall of Assyria serve as a warning to Egypt and other nations? 4. How does the imagery in this chapter evoke a sense of God's sovereignty and judgement? 5. In what ways can the pride of Assyria be seen in contemporary societies or individuals? 6. How can you apply the lessons from Assyria's downfall to your personal life? 7. How does this chapter show the importance of humility in the face of prosperity and power? 8. How do the consequences faced by Assyria reflect the biblical principle that "pride comes before a fall"? 9. How does the prophecy in this chapter affect your understanding of God's sovereignty and His control over the nations? 10. In today's context, how can we identify and avoid the kind of pride exhibited by Assyria? 11. What does the chapter teach about God's expectation of those in positions of power and influence? 12. How does the fate of the other nations (trees) reflect the interconnectedness of the world? 13. How can you relate the fear of the nations after Assyria's fall to contemporary reactions to global superpowers' political or economic instability? 14. How does the chapter’s emphasis on God’s judgement against pride impact your understanding of humility from a Christian perspective? 15. How would you address the pride and arrogance you may encounter in your community, based on the teachings in this chapter? 16. How do you see the relationship between pride, downfall, and God's judgement unfolding in the world today? 17. If you were in a position of great influence and power, how would the lessons from this chapter guide your actions and decisions? 18. How does the fate of Assyria influence your perspective on the rise and fall of modern nations? 19. How can we use the lessons from Assyria's downfall to promote humility and reverence for God in our societies? 20. How can the Church apply the warnings and lessons in Ezekiel 31 to guide its teachings on pride and humility? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions