Ezekiel 30:18

The day will be darkened in Tahpanhes when I break the yoke of Egypt and her proud strength comes to an end. A cloud will cover her, and her daughters will go into captivity.

Study Bible

The day will be darkened
This phrase signifies a time of judgment and calamity. In the Hebrew context, darkness often symbolizes distress, divine judgment, or the absence of God's favor. The imagery of a darkened day suggests a significant and ominous event, reflecting God's intervention in human affairs. Historically, darkness as a metaphor is used throughout the Bible to denote times when nations or individuals face the consequences of their actions, particularly when they have turned away from God.

in Tehaphnehes
Tehaphnehes, also known as Tahpanhes, was an important city in ancient Egypt, located in the eastern Nile Delta. It served as a strategic military and trade location. Archaeological findings have confirmed its significance during the time of the prophet Ezekiel. The mention of Tehaphnehes highlights the specific and localized nature of God's judgment, indicating that even the strongholds of powerful nations are not beyond His reach.

when I break the yoke of Egypt there
The "yoke" symbolizes oppression and subjugation. In the Hebrew tradition, breaking a yoke represents liberation and the end of tyranny. God's declaration of breaking Egypt's yoke signifies the dismantling of its power and influence. Historically, Egypt was a dominant force, often oppressing neighboring nations, including Israel. This phrase reassures the faithful that God will ultimately deliver them from their oppressors.

Her proud strength will cease within her
"Proud strength" refers to Egypt's arrogance and reliance on its military and economic power. The cessation of this strength indicates a humbling of the nation. Biblically, pride is often condemned, and nations or individuals who exalt themselves are brought low by God's sovereign will. This serves as a reminder of the futility of human pride in the face of divine authority.

a cloud will cover her
The imagery of a cloud covering Egypt suggests impending doom and obscurity. In biblical literature, clouds can symbolize God's presence, but here they denote judgment and the overshadowing of Egypt's glory. This metaphor indicates that Egypt's future is uncertain and bleak, as the nation will be enveloped in the consequences of its actions.

and her daughters will go into captivity
"Daughters" here likely refers to the cities or people of Egypt. Captivity is a recurring theme in the Bible, often representing the consequences of sin and rebellion against God. The mention of captivity underscores the totality of Egypt's downfall, as its people will be taken away from their homeland. This serves as a sobering reminder of the cost of defying God's will and the ultimate justice that He administers.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Tehaphnehes
An ancient city in Egypt, known as a significant fortress and royal residence. It symbolizes the strength and pride of Egypt.

2. Egypt
A powerful nation often seen as a symbol of worldly power and opposition to God's people. In this context, it represents a nation under judgment.

3. Yoke of Egypt
Represents the oppressive power and influence Egypt had over other nations, including Israel.

4. Cloud
Symbolizes God's judgment and the obscuring of Egypt's power and glory.

5. Daughters of Egypt
Refers to the inhabitants of Egypt, indicating their impending captivity and loss of freedom.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God's judgment on Egypt demonstrates His ultimate authority over all nations. No earthly power can withstand His will.

The Consequences of Pride
Egypt's proud strength is brought low, reminding us that pride precedes a fall. We must remain humble before God.

The Reality of Divine Judgment
The imagery of darkness and captivity serves as a sobering reminder of the reality of God's judgment against sin and rebellion.

Trust in God's Deliverance
Just as God delivered Israel from Egypt's oppression, He is faithful to deliver His people from spiritual bondage today.

The Importance of Repentance
The fate of Egypt underscores the need for repentance and turning back to God to avoid judgment.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the judgment on Tehaphnehes reflect God's sovereignty over nations, and what implications does this have for our understanding of current world events?

2. In what ways can pride lead to downfall in our personal lives, and how can we guard against it?

3. How does the imagery of darkness in Ezekiel 30:18 compare to other instances of darkness in the Bible, and what does it teach us about God's judgment?

4. What lessons can we learn from Egypt's captivity that apply to our spiritual lives today?

5. How can we apply the message of repentance and deliverance in Ezekiel 30:18 to our daily walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 10:21-23
The plague of darkness over Egypt during the time of Moses, symbolizing God's judgment and power over Egypt.

Jeremiah 46:25-26
A prophecy against Egypt, similar to Ezekiel's, predicting its downfall and the captivity of its people.

Isaiah 19:1-4
A prophecy concerning Egypt's judgment, highlighting the futility of their idols and the internal strife that will lead to their downfall.