The "Sign of the King of Babylon" is a significant event recorded in the prophetic literature of the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Ezekiel. This sign is a symbolic act performed by the prophet Ezekiel, which serves as a divine message concerning the fate of Jerusalem and the role of the Babylonian king, Nebuchadnezzar, in God's plan for judgment upon the nation of Judah.

Biblical Context

The context of this sign is found in Ezekiel 21, where the prophet is instructed by God to deliver a message of impending judgment. The historical backdrop is the Babylonian siege of Jerusalem, which culminated in the city's destruction in 586 B.C. Ezekiel, who was among the exiles in Babylon, received visions and messages from God concerning the fate of his homeland.

The Prophetic Act

In Ezekiel 21:18-23, the prophet is commanded to perform a symbolic act that illustrates the decision-making process of the Babylonian king. The Berean Standard Bible records:

> "The word of the LORD came to me, saying, 'Now you, son of man, mark out two roads for the sword of the king of Babylon to take, both starting from the same land. Make a signpost; put it at the head of the road to the city. Mark out one road for the sword to come against Rabbah of the Ammonites, and another against Judah into fortified Jerusalem. For the king of Babylon will stop at the fork in the road, at the head of the two roads, to seek an omen; he will cast lots with arrows, he will consult his idols, he will examine the liver.'"

This passage describes a divinely orchestrated scenario where Nebuchadnezzar, seeking guidance for his military campaign, uses various forms of divination to determine his course of action. The "signpost" or "sign" is a metaphorical representation of the decision point where the king must choose between attacking Rabbah or Jerusalem.

Divine Sovereignty and Judgment

The sign underscores the theme of divine sovereignty over the affairs of nations. Although Nebuchadnezzar employs pagan divination practices, it is ultimately God who directs the outcome. The king's decision to attack Jerusalem is portrayed as part of God's judgment against Judah for their persistent idolatry and rebellion. Ezekiel 21:24-27 further elaborates on this judgment:

> "Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: 'Because you have brought your guilt to remembrance, exposing your transgressions and revealing your sins in all your deeds—because you have come to remembrance, you shall be taken in hand. And you, O profane and wicked prince of Israel, the day has come for your final punishment. This is what the Lord GOD says: Remove the turban, and take off the crown. Things will not remain as they are; exalt the lowly and bring low the exalted. A ruin, a ruin, I will make it a ruin! It will not be restored until the arrival of Him to whom it belongs, to whom I will give it.'"

Messianic Implications

The prophecy concludes with a messianic promise, pointing to a future restoration under the rightful ruler, "Him to whom it belongs." This is interpreted by many conservative scholars as a reference to the coming of the Messiah, who will establish God's kingdom in righteousness.

Theological Significance

The Sign of the King of Babylon serves as a powerful reminder of God's control over history and His use of even pagan nations to accomplish His purposes. It highlights the seriousness of sin and the certainty of divine judgment, while also offering hope through the promise of a future Redeemer. This event is a testament to the intricate interplay between human actions and divine will, demonstrating that God's plans are ultimately fulfilled despite human intentions.