Biblical Reference:
The parable of the first eagle and the cedar is found in the book of Ezekiel, specifically in Ezekiel 17:1-10. This allegory is part of a prophetic message delivered by the prophet Ezekiel to the people of Israel during their exile in Babylon.

Context and Background:
Ezekiel, a prophet and priest, ministered to the Jewish exiles in Babylon during the 6th century BC. His prophecies often employed vivid imagery and allegories to convey God's messages. The parable of the first eagle and the cedar is one such allegory, illustrating the political dynamics and divine judgments concerning the kingdom of Judah.

The Allegory Explained:
In Ezekiel 17:1-10, the prophet presents a riddle involving two eagles and a cedar. The first eagle, described as "great" with "great wings, long pinions, full of feathers of many colors" (Ezekiel 17:3), represents the Babylonian king, Nebuchadnezzar. This eagle comes to Lebanon, a symbol for Jerusalem, and takes the top of a cedar, which signifies the royal lineage of Judah. The eagle carries the topmost shoot to a "city of merchants" (Ezekiel 17:4), symbolizing the deportation of King Jehoiachin and the nobility to Babylon.

The eagle then plants a seed in fertile soil, which grows into a low-spreading vine, indicating the establishment of Zedekiah as a puppet king in Jerusalem under Babylonian control. The vine, however, turns its roots toward another eagle, representing Egypt, seeking support and alliance against Babylon (Ezekiel 17:7). This act of rebellion against Babylonian authority leads to the vine's destruction, symbolizing the downfall of Zedekiah and the ultimate ruin of Jerusalem.

Theological Significance:
The parable underscores the sovereignty of God over nations and rulers. It highlights the futility of relying on human alliances and political maneuvers instead of trusting in God's providence. The allegory serves as a warning to the people of Judah about the consequences of breaking covenants and seeking security apart from God.

Prophetic Fulfillment:
The historical fulfillment of this parable is seen in the events leading to the fall of Jerusalem in 586 BC. Zedekiah's rebellion against Babylon, despite the warnings from prophets like Jeremiah, resulted in the siege and destruction of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar's forces. This fulfilled the prophetic imagery of the vine being uprooted and withered.

Lessons for Believers:
The parable of the first eagle and the cedar teaches believers about the importance of faithfulness to God's covenants and the dangers of relying on worldly powers. It serves as a reminder of God's ultimate control over history and His ability to use even foreign nations to accomplish His divine purposes. Believers are encouraged to place their trust in God alone, recognizing His wisdom and authority in all circumstances.