Introduction:
A Lament for Egypt is a prophetic oracle found in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the book of Ezekiel. This lament is part of a series of prophecies against foreign nations, where the prophet Ezekiel conveys God's judgment upon Egypt. The lament is characterized by vivid imagery and symbolic language, reflecting the impending doom and desolation that will befall Egypt due to its pride and idolatry.

Biblical Context:
The lament is primarily located in Ezekiel 30:1-19. It is part of a broader section in Ezekiel (chapters 29-32) that contains prophecies against Egypt. These chapters are set during the Babylonian exile, a period when the Israelites were under Babylonian domination. Egypt, a significant power in the ancient Near East, is portrayed as a nation that will face divine retribution.

Textual Analysis:
Ezekiel 30:1-19 presents a vivid and poetic description of Egypt's downfall. The passage begins with a call to lament: "The word of the LORD came to me, saying, 'Son of man, prophesy and say, "This is what the Lord GOD says: Wail, ‘Alas for that day!’" (Ezekiel 30:1-2). The "day of the LORD" is depicted as a time of darkness and calamity, not only for Egypt but also for its allies.

The prophecy continues with a description of the instruments of God's judgment: "A sword will come against Egypt, and there will be anguish in Cush when the slain fall in Egypt, and her wealth is carried away, and her foundations are torn down" (Ezekiel 30:4). The imagery of the sword signifies warfare and destruction, emphasizing the totality of Egypt's impending defeat.

The lament further details the desolation of Egypt's cities and the scattering of its people: "I will make the land of Egypt a desolation in the midst of desolate lands, and her cities will lie among ruined cities" (Ezekiel 30:7). This desolation is a direct consequence of Egypt's reliance on its own strength and its alliances, rather than on God.

Theological Themes:
1. Divine Judgment: The lament underscores the theme of divine judgment against nations that oppose God's will. Egypt's downfall serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over all nations and His ability to humble the proud.

2. The Day of the LORD: The concept of the "day of the LORD" is central to the lament. It is portrayed as a time of reckoning and divine intervention, bringing about justice and the fulfillment of God's purposes.

3. Human Pride and Idolatry: Egypt's reliance on its military might and its idolatrous practices are highlighted as reasons for its judgment. The lament serves as a warning against the dangers of pride and the futility of trusting in anything other than God.

4. Hope for Restoration: While the lament focuses on judgment, the broader context of Ezekiel includes themes of restoration and hope. The fall of Egypt is part of a larger narrative where God's ultimate plan is to restore His people and establish His kingdom.

Historical and Cultural Background:
During the time of Ezekiel's prophecy, Egypt was a dominant power in the region, often involved in political and military conflicts with neighboring nations, including Babylon. The historical context of the lament reflects the geopolitical tensions of the time, with Egypt's influence waning as Babylon's power rose.

Literary Features:
The lament employs poetic devices such as parallelism, vivid imagery, and metaphor to convey its message. The use of symbolic language, such as the sword and desolation, enhances the dramatic effect of the prophecy and underscores the severity of Egypt's judgment.

Conclusion:
A Lament for Egypt in Ezekiel 30:1-19 is a powerful prophetic oracle that communicates God's judgment against a proud and idolatrous nation. Through its vivid imagery and theological themes, the lament serves as a timeless reminder of God's sovereignty and the consequences of turning away from Him.