◄ Ezekiel 29 ►
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A Prophecy against Pharaoh 1In the tenth year, on the twelfth day of the tenth month, the word of the LORD came to me, saying, 2“Son of man, set your face against Pharaoh king of Egypt and prophesy against him and against all Egypt. 3Speak to him and tell him that this is what the Lord GOD says: Behold, I am against you, O Pharaoh king of Egypt, O great monster who lies among his rivers, who says, ‘The Nile is mine; I made it myself.’ 4But I will put hooks in your jaws and cause the fish of your streams to cling to your scales. I will haul you up out of your rivers, and all the fish of your streams will cling to your scales. 5I will leave you in the desert, you and all the fish of your streams. You will fall on the open field and will not be taken away or gathered for burial. I have given you as food to the beasts of the earth and the birds of the air. 6Then all the people of Egypt will know that I am the LORD. For you were only a staff of reeds to the house of Israel. 7When Israel took hold of you with their hands, you splintered, tearing all their shoulders; when they leaned on you, you broke, and their backs were wrenched.a The Desolation of Egypt 8Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: I will bring a sword against you and cut off from you man and beast. 9The land of Egypt will become a desolate wasteland. Then they will know that I am the LORD. Because you said, ‘The Nile is mine; I made it,’ 10therefore I am against you and against your rivers. I will turn the land of Egypt into a ruin, a desolate wasteland from Migdol to Syene, and as far as the border of Cush.b 11No foot of man or beast will pass through, and it will be uninhabited for forty years. 12I 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. 13For this is what the Lord GOD says: At the end of forty years I will gather the Egyptians from the nations to which they were scattered. 14I will restore Egypt from captivityc and bring them back to the land of Pathros, the land of their origin. There they will be a lowly kingdom. 15Egypt will be the lowliest of kingdoms and will never again exalt itself above the nations. For I will diminish Egypt so that it will never again rule over the nations. 16Egypt will never again be an object of trust for the house of Israel, but will remind them of their iniquity in turning to the Egyptians. Then they will know that I am the Lord GOD.” Egypt the Reward of Nebuchadnezzar 17In the twenty-seventh year, on the first day of the first month, the word of the LORD came to me, saying, 18“Son of man, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon caused his army to labor strenuously against Tyre. Every head was made bald and every shoulder made raw. But he and his army received no wages from Tyre for the labor they expended on it. 19Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: I will give the land of Egypt to Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, who will carry off its wealth, seize its spoil, and remove its plunder. This will be the wages for his army. 20I have given him the land of Egypt as the reward for his labor, because it was done for Me, declares the Lord GOD. 21In that day I will cause a horn to sprout for the house of Israel, and I will open your mouth to speak among them. Then they will know that I am the LORD.” Footnotes: 7 a Syriac (see also LXX and Vulgate); Hebrew and you caused their loins to shake. 10 b That is, the upper Nile region 14 c Or restore the fortunes of Egypt 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 29 Summary A Prophecy against Pharaoh Verses 1–7 – Pharaoh, the River Monster, and a Broken Staff Pharaoh Hophra struts like a giant crocodile in the Nile, bragging, “The Nile is mine; I made it for myself.” The LORD promises to drag this monster onto the dry ground with fish clinging to his scales, leaving him as carrion for birds and beasts. Egypt, once Israel’s hoped-for ally, is exposed as a splintered “staff of reed” that snaps and wounds anyone who leans on it. Verses 8–12 – Sword, Desolation, and Forty Years of Exile A relentless sword will sweep the land. From Migdol in the north to Syene on the southern border with Cush, Egypt will become a deserted ruin. Its people will be scattered among the nations, and the proud Nile valley will lie empty for forty years. Verses 13–16 – A Modest Return, Never Again a Superpower After the forty years, the LORD will regather the Egyptians and let them return to Pathros. Yet Egypt will be a lowly kingdom—no longer a dominant empire or a crutch for Israel. Their reduced status will remind Israel of the folly of past alliances. Verses 17–21 – Egypt Given to Babylon, Israel’s Horn Raised Seventeen years later God tells Ezekiel that Nebuchadnezzar received no spoil after besieging Tyre, so Egypt will become his wages. Babylon will plunder the land, but in the same breath God promises to “make a horn spring up for the house of Israel,” signaling future strength and renewed prophetic voice. Ezekiel 29 is a captivating chapter, marked by a vivid prophecy against Egypt. Through the prophet Ezekiel, God pronounces judgment on the Pharaoh and the land of Egypt for their arrogance and reliance on their own might. The chapter conveys a stark message about divine sovereignty, the justice of God, and His redemptive plan for His chosen people, Israel. Historical Setting and Pharaoh Hophra • Date markers in verses 1 and 17 fix the oracles on 7 January 587 BC and 26 April 571 BC. • Pharaoh Hophra (Apries) ruled 589–570 BC. Ancient records show his arrogance and overthrow by his own general Amasis, fitting Ezekiel’s picture of humiliation. • Egypt’s failed attempt to relieve Jerusalem in 588 BC (Jeremiah 37:5-8) explains the “broken staff” metaphor. The Nile and the Crocodile Image “the great monster lying in the midst of his rivers” (29:3). Hebrew tannîn can mean dragon or crocodile. Egyptian art worshiped the crocodile-god Sobek, while Scripture uses similar imagery against hostile powers (Psalm 74:13-14; Isaiah 27:1). A Broken Staff: Misplaced Trust Ezekiel 29:6-7 echoes Isaiah 36:6, where Egypt is called “this splintered reed.” Reliance on political help instead of God repeatedly disappoints (Isaiah 30:1-5; 31:1-3; Hosea 7:11). Forty Years—Testing and Judgment • Forty signifies extended trial (Genesis 7:17; Numbers 14:33-34). • While records lack a literal forty-year vacancy, Egypt suffered raids, civil war, and Persian dominance that drained its power, fulfilling the essence of the prophecy. • The exile theme parallels Israel’s own wilderness years, underscoring that every nation answers to God. Geography: From Migdol to Syene • Migdol: a fortified Delta town guarding the northern frontier. • Syene: modern Aswan near the First Cataract. • The phrase spans the Nile valley’s full length. Excavations at Elephantine (Aswan) reveal fifth-century-BC Jewish archives, illustrating the border’s strategic role. Nebuchadnezzar’s Wages “‘I have given him the land of Egypt as his recompense’” (29:19). Babylon’s thirteen-year siege of Tyre (586–573 BC) yielded little spoil, so God “balances the books” by granting Egypt. Babylonian Chronicles note a campaign in Egypt in 568 BC, matching Ezekiel’s forecast. A Horn for Israel 29:21: “On that day I will cause a horn to sprout for the house of Israel.” In Scripture a horn symbolizes strength and salvation (1 Samuel 2:1; Psalm 132:17). The immediate fulfillment is the survival and return of the exiles (Ezra 1:1), and the ultimate picture points to the Messiah, “a horn of salvation” (Luke 1:69). Key Themes • God sovereignly humbles national pride. • Political alliances cannot replace trust in the LORD. • Judgment is purposeful, leading to restoration. • God keeps precise accounts; service and rebellion alike receive their due reward. Connections to Other Scriptures • Exodus 7:17-18 – the Nile struck, exposing Egyptian gods. • Isaiah 19 – earlier warnings of Egypt’s upheaval and future repentance. • Jeremiah 46 – parallel prophecy of Babylon’s victory over Egypt. • Revelation 16:12 – rivers subject to divine command, echoing Ezekiel’s imagery. Practical Takeaways • Self-made boasts (“The Nile is mine”) invite divine opposition. • Depending on worldly power is like leaning on a broken reed; sturdy trust rests in God. • God sees every effort and repays in His timing, whether to empires or individuals. • Even in judgment, God prepares a horn of hope for His people. Archaeological Notes • Canal projects under Hophra underline his confidence in Nile control—precisely what God challenges. • Medinet Habu reliefs show Pharaoh grasping enemies like fish; Ezekiel reverses the image as God drags Pharaoh out. • Babylonian tablets confirm Nebuchadnezzar’s incursion into Egypt, lending historical weight to the prophecy. Prophetic Chronology in Ezekiel Ezekiel arranges his seven Egypt oracles (chapters 29–32) thematically, not strictly by date. Chapter 29 introduces the series, spotlighting God’s authority over foreign powers before the book turns to Israel’s ultimate restoration. Looking Ahead Subsequent chapters deepen Egypt’s lament, but the pattern is set here: pride confronted, people scattered, power diminished, and a faithful God still planning a future where His own people flourish. Connections to Additional Scriptures Isaiah 46:9-10 Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me. I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say, ‘My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.’ This passage reinforces God's sovereignty and His control over history. Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. This verse echoes the warning against pride seen in Pharaoh's attitude. Romans 8:28 And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose. This New Testament promise assures believers of God's faithfulness and His ability to work through all circumstances. Teaching Points God's Sovereignty Over Nations Ezekiel 29:3 declares, Speak to him and tell him that this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Behold, I am against you, Pharaoh king of Egypt, the great monster lying in the midst of his rivers, who has said, ‘My Nile is my own; I made it for myself.’ This verse highlights God's authority over Egypt and its leader, emphasizing that no nation is self-sufficient or beyond God's reach. Judgment on Pride Pharaoh's pride in claiming ownership of the Nile reflects a broader human tendency to take credit for God's creation. God's judgment on Egypt serves as a warning against pride and self-reliance. God's Faithfulness to Israel In verses 13-16, God promises to restore Egypt after forty years, but they will remain a lowly kingdom. This demonstrates God's faithfulness to His covenant people, as He uses Egypt's downfall to remind Israel of His power and their need to trust in Him alone. Prophetic Fulfillment The prophecy against Egypt is part of a larger narrative where God uses other nations to discipline and refine Israel. This underscores the theme of God's control over history and His ability to fulfill His promises. Practical Applications Recognize God's Authority Acknowledge that God is sovereign over all nations and leaders. Trust in His ultimate plan, even when world events seem chaotic. Guard Against Pride Reflect on areas in your life where pride may have taken root. Seek humility and recognize God's hand in your achievements and blessings. Trust in God's Faithfulness Remember that God is faithful to His promises. In times of uncertainty, rely on His unchanging nature and His commitment to His people. Discern God's Hand in History As you observe global events, consider how God might be working through them to accomplish His purposes. Pray for wisdom to understand His will. People 1. The LORD (YHWH) The sovereign God of Israel who speaks through the prophet Ezekiel. In the Hebrew text, the name used is יהוה (YHWH), often rendered as "the LORD" in English translations. He declares judgment against Egypt and its Pharaoh for their arrogance and idolatry. 2. Pharaoh The king of Egypt, specifically referred to as a "great monster" or "dragon" in the river Nile, symbolizing his pride and self-exaltation. The Hebrew term used is פרעה (Par'oh), which is the title for the ruler of Egypt. The prophecy condemns Pharaoh for claiming ownership of the Nile and for his arrogance. 3. Ezekiel The prophet through whom God delivers His message. While not directly named in this chapter, he is the one receiving and conveying the prophecy. Ezekiel's role is to communicate God's judgment and intentions to the people. Places 1. Egypt The central focus of Ezekiel 29, Egypt is depicted as a nation that will face judgment from God. The prophecy speaks of Egypt's desolation and the scattering of its people. The Hebrew term for Egypt is "Mitzrayim" (מִצְרַיִם), which often symbolizes a place of bondage or oppression in biblical texts. 2. Nile Referred to as the river in the prophecy, the Nile is a significant geographical feature of Egypt, symbolizing its life and sustenance. The Hebrew word used is "Ye'or" (יְאוֹר), which specifically denotes the Nile River. 3. Pathros Mentioned later in the chapter, Pathros is a region in Upper Egypt. The name "Pathros" (פַּתְרוֹס) is derived from the Egyptian term for the southern part of the country, indicating its geographical and cultural significance. Events 1. Prophecy Against Pharaoh and Egypt Ezekiel receives a word from the LORD against Pharaoh, king of Egypt, and the entire land of Egypt. The prophecy is delivered in the tenth year, in the tenth month, on the twelfth day. ^Reference: Ezekiel 29:1-2^ 2. Pharaoh Compared to a Monster Pharaoh is likened to a great monster lying in the Nile, boasting that the river belongs to him. This imagery reflects Pharaoh's pride and self-deception. ^Reference: Ezekiel 29:3^ 3. Judgment Pronounced on Egypt God declares that He will put hooks in Pharaoh's jaws and make the fish of the Nile stick to his scales, symbolizing the capture and defeat of Egypt. ^Reference: Ezekiel 29:4^ 4. Egypt's Desolation The land of Egypt will become a desolate waste, and its cities will lie in ruins for forty years. This judgment emphasizes the complete devastation that will come upon Egypt. ^Reference: Ezekiel 29:10-12^ 5. Restoration After Forty Years After the forty years of desolation, God promises to gather the Egyptians from the nations where they were scattered and restore them to their land. However, Egypt will be a lowly kingdom. ^Reference: Ezekiel 29:13-15^ 6. Egypt's Role as a Lowly Kingdom Egypt will no longer be a source of confidence for Israel, as it will be a lowly kingdom, never again to rule over the nations. This serves as a reminder of Egypt's diminished status. ^Reference: Ezekiel 29:16^ 7. Nebuchadnezzar's Reward God declares that He will give Egypt to Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, as a reward for his army's service against Tyre. This transfer of power underscores God's sovereignty over nations. ^Reference: Ezekiel 29:19-20^ 8. A Horn for the House of Israel On that day, God will cause a horn to sprout for the house of Israel, symbolizing strength and restoration for His people. This event highlights God's ongoing commitment to Israel. ^Reference: Ezekiel 29:21^ Lessons from Ezekiel 29 1. God’s Sovereignty Over Nations Ezekiel 29 reminds us that God is the ultimate authority over all nations. Pharaoh and Egypt, despite their power, are subject to God's will. As it is written, "I am against you, Pharaoh king of Egypt" (Ezekiel 29:3). This serves as a powerful reminder that no earthly power can stand against the plans of the Almighty. In our daily lives, we can find peace knowing that God is in control, even when worldly events seem chaotic. 2. The Danger of Pride Pharaoh's downfall is a classic example of the dangers of pride. He claimed, "The Nile is mine; I made it for myself" (Ezekiel 29:3). This arrogance led to his downfall. Pride can blind us to our dependence on God. Let us remember to humble ourselves and acknowledge that all we have is a gift from Him. 3. God’s Judgment is Just Ezekiel 29 illustrates that God's judgments are always just and righteous. Egypt's punishment was a consequence of their actions and attitudes. "I will make the land of Egypt a desolate waste" (Ezekiel 29:9). This serves as a reminder that our actions have consequences, and we are called to live righteously according to His Word. 4. The Importance of Repentance While judgment is certain, God’s desire is for repentance. The prophecy against Egypt is a call to turn from sin and seek God’s mercy. In our own lives, we should be quick to repent and seek forgiveness, knowing that God is gracious and compassionate. 5. God’s Faithfulness to His Promises God promised to bring judgment upon Egypt, and He fulfilled it. "I will give the land of Egypt to Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon" (Ezekiel 29:19). This demonstrates that God is faithful to His promises, both in judgment and in blessing. We can trust Him to fulfill His promises in our lives as well. 6. The Temporary Nature of Earthly Power Egypt was a mighty nation, yet it was brought low. This reminds us that earthly power and wealth are temporary. "Egypt will become a lowly kingdom" (Ezekiel 29:15). Our focus should be on eternal treasures and the kingdom of God, which will never fade away. 7. God’s Protection Over His People Even amidst judgment, God’s people are not forgotten. The prophecy serves as a reminder that God watches over His own. We can take comfort in knowing that He is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. 8. The Role of Prophets Ezekiel’s role as a prophet was to deliver God’s message, regardless of its popularity. This highlights the importance of speaking truth in love, even when it’s difficult. We are called to be bold in sharing God’s Word, trusting that He will use it for His purposes. 9. The Call to Trust in God Alone Egypt’s reliance on their own strength and resources led to their downfall. We are reminded to place our trust in God alone, not in worldly systems or our own abilities. "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding" (Proverbs 3:5) is a timeless truth that aligns with this lesson. 10. Hope in Restoration Despite the judgment, there is a promise of restoration. "At the end of forty years I will gather the Egyptians" (Ezekiel 29:13). This offers hope that God’s discipline is not the end, but a means to bring about renewal and restoration. In our lives, we can hold onto the hope that God is always working for our good, even through trials. Topics 1. Prophecy Against Pharaoh and Egypt Ezekiel 29 begins with a prophecy against Pharaoh, king of Egypt, and the nation of Egypt itself. The Lord speaks through Ezekiel, declaring judgment upon Egypt for its pride and false reliance. The imagery of Pharaoh as a great monster in the Nile is used to depict his arrogance and self-exaltation. The Hebrew word "תַּנִּין" (tannin) is often translated as "monster" or "dragon," emphasizing the formidable yet ultimately vulnerable nature of Pharaoh. 2. The Desolation of Egypt The prophecy continues with a declaration that Egypt will become a desolate wasteland. The Lord promises to scatter the Egyptians among the nations and make the land uninhabitable for forty years. This period of desolation is a divine judgment meant to humble Egypt and demonstrate the sovereignty of God over all nations. 3. Restoration of Egypt After the period of desolation, the Lord promises to restore Egypt, but it will be a diminished kingdom. It will never again reach the heights of its former glory or rule over other nations. This restoration serves as a reminder of God's mercy and the fulfillment of His word, even in judgment. 4. Egypt as a Warning to Israel The prophecy against Egypt serves as a warning to Israel not to rely on foreign powers for security. The Lord reminds Israel that Egypt's downfall is a result of its pride and false confidence. This theme underscores the importance of trusting in God alone for protection and provision. 5. Nebuchadnezzar's Reward The chapter concludes with a prophecy that Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, will be given Egypt as a reward for his efforts against Tyre. This transfer of power is part of God's plan to use Babylon as an instrument of judgment. The Hebrew root "שָׂכָר" (sakar), meaning "reward" or "wages," highlights the transactional nature of this divine decree. Themes 1. Judgment Against Egypt Ezekiel 29 begins with a prophecy against Egypt, symbolized by Pharaoh as a great monster. The theme of divine judgment is prominent, as God declares His intention to bring Egypt to account for its pride and arrogance. The Hebrew word for "monster" (תַּנִּין, tannin) can also mean "dragon" or "serpent," emphasizing the formidable nature of Egypt's power. ^“Behold, I am against you, Pharaoh king of Egypt, the great monster lying in the midst of his rivers...”^ (Ezekiel 29:3). 2. Pride and Arrogance of Pharaoh Pharaoh's claim to have created the Nile reflects his pride and self-deification. This theme highlights the danger of human arrogance and the false sense of security it brings. ^“The Nile is mine; I made it for myself.”^ (Ezekiel 29:3). 3. Divine Retribution God promises to humble Egypt by making it desolate and uninhabited. This theme underscores the certainty of divine retribution against nations that oppose God's will. ^“I will make the land of Egypt a ruin and a desolate waste, from Migdol to Syene, as far as the border of Cush.”^ (Ezekiel 29:10). 4. Restoration and Hope Despite the judgment, there is a promise of future restoration for Egypt after forty years. This theme reflects God's mercy and the hope of redemption even after severe punishment. ^“Yet this is what the Lord GOD says: At the end of forty years I will gather the Egyptians from the nations to which they were scattered.”^ (Ezekiel 29:13). 5. God’s Sovereignty Over Nations The prophecy illustrates God's control over the rise and fall of nations. Egypt's fate is determined by God's sovereign will, emphasizing His ultimate authority over all earthly powers. ^“I will give the land of Egypt to Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, and he will carry off its wealth.”^ (Ezekiel 29:19). 6. Fulfillment of Prophecy The chapter concludes with a reminder that God's words will be fulfilled. This theme reassures believers of the reliability and truth of God's promises and prophecies. ^“On that day I will cause a horn to sprout for the house of Israel, and I will open your mouth among them. Then they will know that I am the LORD.”^ (Ezekiel 29:21). Prayer Points Pray for Humility Ask God to reveal areas of pride in your life and to cultivate a spirit of humility and dependence on Him. Pray for World Leaders Lift up global leaders in prayer, asking God to guide their decisions and to use them according to His purposes. Pray for Trust in God's Plan Seek God's peace and assurance in trusting His sovereign plan, especially in times of personal or global uncertainty. Pray for Discernment Request wisdom to discern God's hand in current events and to understand how He is working in the world today. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Ezekiel 29:1–3, how can we reconcile the depiction of Pharaoh as a “monster in the seas” with historical or archaeological evidence? 2. In Ezekiel 29:9–12, the prophecy states that Egypt will be desolate for 40 years; why is there no clear historical record of such a period? 3. How does Ezekiel 29:6–7 align with or contradict known historical alliances and events regarding Egypt and its neighbors? 4. Ezekiel 29:10–11 claims the land will become uninhabited; do archaeological findings contradict this prediction of total desolation? 5. In light of previous judgments on other nations, why does Ezekiel 29’s specific timeline for Egypt seem inconsistent with events recorded elsewhere in the Bible? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the prophecy against Egypt in Ezekiel 29 relate to the modern concept of pride and self-reliance? 2. What lesson can we learn from Israel's mistake of leaning on Egypt for support? 3. How does God's judgment against Egypt illustrate His justice? 4. Despite His severe judgment, God promises to restore Egypt. What does this tell us about God's character? 5. How does God's promise of hope for Israel in the midst of judgment inspire you in your own life? 6. What can we learn about God's sovereignty from the prophecy against Egypt? 7. Why do you think God used such strong imagery (Pharaoh as a monster in the Nile) in His prophecy? 8. What implications can be drawn from the punishment and restoration of Egypt for our understanding of divine justice? 9. How does the concept of divine judgment as depicted in Ezekiel 29 apply in today's world? 10. In what ways does God's redemptive plan for His chosen people inspire you personally? 11. How can we avoid the mistake of Israel in relying on other "Egypts" in our lives? 12. How does the prophecy and its fulfillment in this chapter reinforce your faith in God's promises? 13. What role does prophecy play in the overall message of the Bible, as seen in this chapter? 14. How can we apply the lessons from God's dealing with Pharaoh in our leadership roles today? 15. How can we discern when we are relying on our own strength instead of God's? 16. Why do you think God decided to give Egypt to Nebuchadnezzar as compensation? 17. How does God's promise of a sprouting horn for Israel resonate with our modern understanding of hope and deliverance? 18. How can you apply the lessons learned from Ezekiel 29 in your personal life? 19. What does this chapter teach us about God's expectations for nations and leaders? 20. In what ways can God's just yet merciful character, as seen in this chapter, impact our view of Him and our relationship with Him? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions