Atlanta Bible Students

The Book of Ezekiel

Chapter 30
Go To Verse 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

[1] The word of the LORD came again unto me, saying, [2] Son of man, prophesy and say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Howl ye, Woe worth the day! [3] For the day is near, even the day of the LORD is near, a cloudy day; it shall be the time of the heathen. [4] And the sword shall come upon Egypt, and great pain shall be in Ethiopia, when the slain shall fall in Egypt, and they shall take away her multitude, and her foundations shall be broken down. [5] Ethiopia, and Libya, and Lydia, and all the mingled people, and Chub, and the men of the land that is in league, shall fall with them by the sword.

Verses 1-2  Expanded Bible Comments

The word of the LORD came again unto me, saying, [2] Son of man, prophesy and say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Howl ye, Woe worth the day!
QuestionSuggested Answer
To whom did "The word of the LORD" come? "Unto me [Ezekiel]"
Was this the first time this happened? No. "Came again unto me."
By what designation does the LORD call Ezekiel, and what does this indicate to us? "Son of man" – It refers to Pastor Russell, apparently indicating this message will not truly apply prior to his ministry as the seventh messenger.
Do these first two verses tell us who the prophecy is directed at? No.
"Wail out loud! Oh no! The day!" – ISV
"Howl ye, Alas for the day!" – Darby, Roth
"Wail, ‘Alas for the day!" – ESV, LEB
"Howl ye, Woe worth the day!" – MKJV
What do we learn about this prophecy? Sounds like a "day" that will cause pain, fear, etc.

Verse 3  Expanded Bible Comments

For the day is near, even the day of the LORD is near, a cloudy day; it shall be the time of the heathen.
QuestionSuggested Answer
Is this prophecy time oriented? Yes. We are told "the day is near."
"Near" to when. How can we narrow this down? Since this is directed to "Son of man" we may reasonably deduce this is focused on the time of Pastor Russell's ministry.
Specifically, what "day" is it? It is "the day of the LORD."
What is the weather like on this day? "Cloudy."
Is this Israel's time? "It shall be the time of the heathen [gentiles]"

Verse 4  Expanded Bible Comments

And the sword shall come upon Egypt, and great pain shall be in Ethiopia, when the slain shall fall in Egypt, and they shall take away her multitude, and her foundations shall be broken down.
QuestionSuggested Answer
What is pictured by "the sword?" From a literal standpoint the sword is a deadly weapon used primarily for attack.
From the symbolic standpoint it most often is used to picture "the word of God." Heb. 4:12
According to verse 4, upon whom does this "sword" come directly upon? Egypt. In the symbolic sense, the world under the rule of Satan.
What takes place in Ethiopia? They shall have "great pain."
When does this happen to Ethiopia? "When the slain shall fall in Egypt."
What is indicated by "the slain" falling in Egypt? To be slain means, among other things, to be ostracized. While it might indicate literal slaying, it more often indicates loss of reputation, standing, societal shaming, etc.
What else happens to Egypt at the time of Ethiopia's "great pain?" The above mentioned "slain" in Egypt (the world) "fall." We suggest their "fall" was from how the common people viewed them, no longer as authorities in connection with how the world was to be governed (often in connection with the religious element of society.) This might be evidenced by the eventual outbreak of WWI and the Russian revolution.
Why Ethiopia? While Br. Fisher was projecting forward (what he wrote was published in 1917, before some of the events took place) his suggestion here appears to be worth a look:
The weapons of anarchy and the Sword of the Spirit shall come against worldly Christendom. Great distress shall be upon non-church members (Ethiopia, black) socialists, laborites and revolutionists, when Christendom's slain shall fall literally and spiritually, when her multitude shall abandon her, and when her foundations – social, economic, moral and religious – shall be broken down in war, revolution and anarchy. FM507

We discovered an additional thought suggested by Br. Benjamin Barton found in R4240 regarding Ethiopia: "The servants before the throne, the palm-bearers of Revelation, touching a symbolical Ethiopia, for that country was used to represent servitude." In other words, Ethiopians may picture the Great Company.
What happens to Egypt's "multitude?" "They shall take away her multitude." In comparing various translations, "they" is merely implied. It appears that this verse is better when using the DRB: "the multitude thereof shall be taken away." We are not told directly who does this carrying off. Some translations indicate her "wealth" or "abundance" instead of "multitude."
"Her foundations shall be broken down." What are Egypt's "foundations" and how are they "broken down?" Suggested answer: Throughout history men have believed that there was some kind of supernatural power ruling over them. God, Zeus, the god of this world, the gods, etc. (See Acts 19:23-41) In each of these cases the apparent thought is that man needs to obey this supernatural power. In Christendom this manifested itself by church-state union. This expression seems to indicate that the world (Egypt) would move away from this societal foundation and more in the direction of agnosticism or even atheism.
agnosticism "The view that any ultimate reality (such as a deity) is unknown and probably unknowable : a philosophical or religious position characterized by uncertainty about the existence of a god or any gods." – Webster

Verse 5  Expanded Bible Comments

Ethiopia, and Libya, and Lydia, and all the mingled people, and Chub, and the men of the land that is in league, shall fall with them by the sword.
QuestionSuggested Answer

This image was found at https://worldeventsandthebible.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/The-Persian-Empire.jpg (Jan. 2025)
Who or what is "Chub?"
Strong's H3552
כּוּב
kûb
koob
Of foreign derivation; Kub, a country near Egypt: - Chub.
Total KJV occurrences: 1
This is the only place in the Bible where this is found. Anything added may seem like mere speculation.
What is the connection between Ethiopia, Libya and Lydia? They all appear to be in league with Egypt.
Ethiopia is to the South, Libya is to the West and Lydia is to the North (roughly modern day Turkey.) Lydia is the location of the 7 cities in Rev. chapters 2 and 3 (Ephesus, Smyrna.. Laodicea.)
What is indicated by "all the mingled people?" It seems to describe what people used to say about the United States: "a melting pot."
What happens to them? They "fall with them by the sword."
What does that mean? In the literal sense it indicates war. In the symbolic sense it indicates Truth on various fronts. Scientific truth, religious and societal truths, etc. – 1 Cor. 4:5

[6] Thus saith the LORD; They also that uphold Egypt shall fall; and the pride of her power shall come down: from the tower of Syene shall they fall in it by the sword, saith the Lord GOD. [7] And they shall be desolate in the midst of the countries that are desolate, and her cities shall be in the midst of the cities that are wasted. [8] And they shall know that I am the LORD, when I have set a fire in Egypt, and when all her helpers shall be destroyed. [9] In that day shall messengers go forth from me in ships to make the careless Ethiopians afraid, and great pain shall come upon them, as in the day of Egypt: for, lo, it cometh.

Verse 6  Expanded Bible Comments

Thus saith the LORD; They also that uphold Egypt shall fall; and the pride of her power shall come down: from the tower of Syene shall they fall in it by the sword, saith the Lord GOD.
QuestionSuggested Answer
Who is pictured by Egypt? The world of mankind.
What does it mean to "uphold Egypt?" To uphold the world and its ways. Thus they tend to praise its leaders and its heroes.
What happens to those who do "uphold Egypt?" "They ... shall fall."
What is indicated by "the pride of her power?" The world often takes pride in their nation, even those that oppress them. Consider, for example, the kingdoms of Europe prior to WWI.
What happens to "the pride of her power?" "The pride of her power shall come down."
What was "the tower of Syene" and what does that picture? The tower of Syene was the southern-most watch tower of Egypt. It looked southward towards Ethiopia. It was located near the present day city of Aswan.
Why "From the tower of Syene?"
"They shall fall in it.." What is "it?"
By what means do they so fall? "By the sword."
How certain are we that this must take place? "Thus saith the LORD."

Verse 7  Expanded Bible Comments

And they shall be desolate in the midst of the countries that are desolate, and her cities shall be in the midst of the cities that are wasted.
QuestionSuggested Answer
"They shall be desolate.." Who is referred to as "they?" From the previous verse, "they that uphold Egypt."
What do we learn from this statement: "They shall be desolate in the midst of the countries that are desolate?" That those who uphold Egypt (the world) will find themselves "desolate," and they will not be alone as there will be other countries that are also "desolate."
What does it mean to be "desolate?" Consider the following verses to see if there is a pattern emerges that answers this question: Isa. 5:9; 6:11; Jer. 4:7; 9:11; 26:9; 33:10; 46:19; Zeph. 3:6.
Is there a difference between "countries" and "cities?"
Strong's H776
אֶרֶץ
'erets
eh'-rets
From an unused root probably meaning to be firm; the earth (at large, or partitively a land): - X common, country, earth, field, ground, land, X nations, way, + wilderness, world.
Total KJV occurrences: 2505
We often hear the phrase "Erets Israel," the land of Israel.
Strong's H5892
עָיַר עָר עִיר
‛ı̂yr ‛âr ‛âyar
eer, awr, aw-yar'
From H5782 a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post): - Ai [from margin], city, court [from margin], town.
Total KJV occurrences: 1094
In bible symbology a city represents a government. By referring to a city within a country, the Lord may be differentiating between the government (leaders) and its people.
What is meant by "the cities that are wasted?"
Strong's H2717
חָרֵב חָרַב
chârab chârêb
khaw-rab', khaw-rabe'
A primitive root; to parch (through drought), that is, (by analogy) to desolate, destroy, kill: - decay, (be) desolate, destroy (-er), (be) dry (up), slay, X surely, (lay, lie, make) waste.
Total KJV occurrences: 40
These cities (governments) were indeed in great need of water (truth) but did not drink in those waters. Thus they became "wasted."
When was this to take place? "The day of the LORD." Verse 3.

Verse 8  Expanded Bible Comments

And they shall know that I am the LORD, when I have set a fire in Egypt, and when all her helpers shall be destroyed.
QuestionSuggested Answer
Who is "they?" "They... that uphold Egypt." See verse 6.
What is it that "they" shall know? "That I am the LORD."
When to "they" know it, and what does that mean? When – "when I have set a fire in Egypt."
Please note: it does not say "When I have completely destroyed Egypt by fire." This seems to strongly indicate that this takes place sometime during the anarchy phase of their destruction (fire) but prior to their complete destruction.
For an idea of just how destructive fire can be, consider the fires in Los Angeles – January 2025.
What happens to Egypt's helpers and to how many of them does it happen? "All her helpers shall be destroyed."

Verse 9  Expanded Bible Comments

In that day shall messengers go forth from me in ships to make the careless Ethiopians afraid, and great pain shall come upon them, as in the day of Egypt: for, lo, it cometh.
QuestionSuggested Answer
When does all this take place? "In that day."
What "day," what does that mean? The answer is two-fold.
1) It happens "when I have set a fire in Egypt." (vs 8).
2) When found in Old Testament prophecies the phrase "in that day" seems to always refer to "the day of the LORD," i.e., the period from our Lord's return (1874) to the establishment of the New Covenant (usually with a special focus on the 40 year period from 1878 to 1918.)
– We also notice that the context (Verse 3) places us in "the day of the LORD."
What is pictured by "messengers go forth... in ships?" In chapter 27 we learned about how the ships of Christendom carried merchandise (of all sorts, teachings, slaves, etc.) throughout the world, all to enrich her.
Who sends these "messengers?" "..shall messengers go forth from me [the LORD.]"
What is the purpose of these messengers going forth, and what does that mean? "To make the careless Ethiopians afraid."
What is indicated by the Ethiopians being "careless?" It indicates they are not paying attention to what the LORD is showing them. They have the example of what historically happens to those who reject the LORD, but they ignore it.
Other than fear, what else happens to "the careless Ethiopians?" "Great pain shall come upon them."
What kind of pain, and what does that mean? The same kind of pain "as in the day of Egypt."
This would seem to refer to the day when Egypt failed to heed the word of the LORD delivered by Moses. This resulted in the destruction of their armies and their king (Pharaoh.)

[10] Thus saith the Lord GOD; I will also make the multitude of Egypt to cease by the hand of Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon. [11] He and his people with him, the terrible of the nations, shall be brought to destroy the land: and they shall draw their swords against Egypt, and fill the land with the slain. [12] And I will make the rivers dry, and sell the land into the hand of the wicked: and I will make the land waste, and all that is therein, by the hand of strangers: I the LORD have spoken it.

Verse 10  Expanded Bible Comments

Thus saith the Lord GOD; I will also make the multitude of Egypt to cease by the hand of Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon.
QuestionSuggested Answer
Who are "the multitude of Egypt?" Multitude:
Strong's H1995
הָמֹן הָמוֹן
hâmôn hâmôn
haw-mone', haw-mone'
From H1993; a noise, tumult, crowd; also disquietude, wealth: - abundance, company, many, multitude, multiply, noise, riches, rumbling, sounding, store, tumult.
Total KJV occurrences: 83
Basically this seems to picture the wealth of the world (including its people and great variety worldly possessions.)
What happens to "the multitude of Egypt?" The LORD will "make the multitude of Egypt to cease."
By what means does the LORD bring this about? "By the hand of Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon."
What does that mean? This is a good place to review what we learned in chapter 29:18-19 about Nebuchadnezzar's relation to the Universal Empires.
What this appears to be saying is that the wealth (multitude) of the world (Egypt) will "cease by the hand of" Christendom (pictured by King Nebuchadrezzar.) – Again we need to remember, this is not about the destruction of Christendom, but the destruction of the world (Egypt.)

Verse 11  Expanded Bible Comments

He and his people with him, the terrible of the nations, shall be brought to destroy the land: and they shall draw their swords against Egypt, and fill the land with the slain.
QuestionSuggested Answer
"He and his people with him.." Who is "He" and who are "his people?" "He" is Nebuchadnezzar and his people would refer those who support him, i.e., "the terrible of the nations."
Who are "the terrible of the nations?" These would be the Gentile nations aligned with Christendom. Remember, Nebuchadnezzar is directly associated with the 4 universal empires. Since we have the context as being "The day of the LORD," and the instructions are given (in vs 2) to "son of man," this prophecy is declared during the time when it is both "the day of the LORD" and the "son of man" is on the scene.
What are "the terrible of the nations" going to do? "Destroy the land."
Which land? Egypt.
How are they to accomplish this? "They shall draw their swords against Egypt."
Is this literal or symbolic? Both.
What is the result of this action? They will "fill the land with the slain."
What does that mean? We have all seen images of what this means. Consider the two World Wars. That was literal slain. The symbolical slain are those who have lost reputation, are outcast for their beliefs. These are scoffed at by others.
Is this literal or symbolic? Both.

Verse 12  Expanded Bible Comments

And I will make the rivers dry, and sell the land into the hand of the wicked: and I will make the land waste, and all that is therein, by the hand of strangers: I the LORD have spoken it.
QuestionSuggested Answer
What happens to the rivers (of Egypt?) They are made dry.
Who does this? "I will make the rivers dry." - The LORD.
"I will... sell the land into the hand of the wicked." In this context, who are "the wicked?" – Remember, this is about Egypt (not Christendom.)
"I will make the land waste." In addition to drying up "the rivers," what else does the LORD do to Egypt? He makes "the land" waste.
Strong's H776
אֶרֶץ
'erets
eh'-rets
From an unused root probably meaning to be firm; the earth (at large, or partitively a land): - X common, country, earth, field, ground, land, X nations, way, + wilderness, world.
Total KJV occurrences: 2505
This refers to the physical territory. We often find reference to "eh'-rets Israel," the land of Israel. In this case it is the land of Egypt.
Strong's H8074
שָׁמֵם
shâmêm
shaw-mame'
A primitive root; to stun (or intransitively grow numb), that is, devastate or (figuratively) stupefy (both usually in a passive sense): - make amazed, be astonied, (be an) astonish (-ment), (be, bring into, unto, lay, lie, make) desolate (-ion, places), be destitute, destroy (self), (lay, lie, make) waste, wonder.
Total KJV occurrences: 89
While this word is here translated "waste." We find this same word (H8047) used in a familiar text: "Then shall the land enjoy her sabbaths, as long as it lieth desolate, and ye be in your enemies' land; even then shall the land rest, and enjoy her sabbaths. As long as it lieth desolate it shall rest; because it did not rest in your sabbaths, when ye dwelt upon it." Lev. 26:34-35
Is this all that the LORD makes waste in Egypt? No. "I will make the land waste, and all that is therein."
How does the LORD bring this about? "By the hand of strangers."
How certain are we that this takes place? "I the LORD have spoken it."

[13] Thus saith the Lord GOD; I will also destroy the idols, and I will cause their images to cease out of Noph; and there shall be no more a prince of the land of Egypt: and I will put a fear in the land of Egypt. [14] And I will make Pathros desolate, and will set fire in Zoan, and will execute judgments in No. [15] And I will pour my fury upon Sin, the strength of Egypt; and I will cut off the multitude of No. [16] And I will set fire in Egypt: Sin shall have great pain, and No shall be rent asunder, and Noph shall have distresses daily. [17] The young men of Aven and of Pibeseth shall fall by the sword: and these cities shall go into captivity. [18] At Tehaphnehes also the day shall be darkened, when I shall break there the yokes of Egypt: and the pomp of her strength shall cease in her: as for her, a cloud shall cover her, and her daughters shall go into captivity. [19] Thus will I execute judgments in Egypt: and they shall know that I am the LORD.

Verse 13  Expanded Bible Comments

Thus saith the Lord GOD; I will also destroy the idols, and I will cause their images to cease out of Noph; and there shall be no more a prince of the land of Egypt: and I will put a fear in the land of Egypt.
QuestionSuggested Answer
What are "the idols?"
Strong's H1544
גִּלֻּל גִּלּוּל
gillûl gillûl
ghil-lool', ghil-lool'
From H1556; properly a log (as round); by implication an idol: - idol.
Total KJV occurrences: 48
Considering the law of first mention, the first occurrence of this word is in Lev. 26:30. In verses 27-30 "And if ye will not for all this hearken unto me, but walk contrary unto me; Then I... will chastise you seven times for your sins... And I will... cast your carcases upon the carcases of your idols [H1544], and my soul shall abhor you." The destruction of their idols is in connection with Israel's punishment during "the Times of the Gentiles."
In this case it is the destruction of the world's (Egypt's) idols.
What are "their images?"
Strong's H457
אֱלִיל
'ĕlı̂yl
el-eel'
Apparently from H408; good for nothing, by analogy vain or vanity; specifically an idol: - idol, no value, thing of nought.
Total KJV occurrences: 19
Consider Isa. 2:8 "Their land also is full of idols [H457]; they worship the work of their own hands, that which their own fingers have made." Their 'images' are indeed "good for nothing."
Where and of what significance was Noph?
Strong's H5297
נֹף
nôph
nofe
A variation of H4644; Noph, the capital of Upper Egypt: - Noph.
Total KJV occurrences: 7
Upper Egypt is the territory from around the tower of Syene (near the current city of Aswan and the dam) south to Ethiopia. Lower Egypt is from around Aswan northward to Cairo and the Mediterranean Sea.
Most historians seem to agree that Noph was another name for the city of Memphis, located just south of the pyramids.
What happens to Egypt's idols and images? "I will cause their images to cease out of Noph."
Why "out of Noph?" What does that mean? As Noph (Memphis) was (at times) the capitol city of Egypt, this would indicate God's removal of the peoples worship of the world's idols. Man is always looking to leaders, groups, and especially governments to take care of them. They also worship (among other things) wealth (being desirous of obtaining it for themselves.)
Does this verse indicate that the King of Egypt will no longer be found in the land? No. "There shall be no more a prince of the land of Egypt."
We point out this simple distinction as a reminder of what we learned in chapter 28, i.e., there is a difference between a prince and a king. In chapter 28 we learned that the prince of Tyrus (Christendom) was the Pope and the king of Tyrus was Satan. While this chapter is about Egypt (the world) and not directly about Tyrus (Christendom), the relationship between prince and king still applies.
What else will the LORD do in the land of Egypt, and what does that mean? "I will put a fear in the land of Egypt."

Verse 14  Expanded Bible Comments

And I will make Pathros desolate, and will set fire in Zoan, and will execute judgments in No.
QuestionSuggested Answer
What is the significance of Pathros?
Strong's H6624
פַּתְרוֹס
pathrôs
path-roce'
Of Egyptian derivation; Pathros, a part of Egypt: - Pathros.
Total KJV occurrences: 5
Here are the other references to Pathros: Isa. 11:11; Jer. 44:1,15; Eze. 29:14. Eze. 29:14 describes Pathros as being "the land of their habitation [Strong's H4351.]"
Strong's H4351
מְכֹרָה מְכוּרָה
mekûrâh mekôrâh
mek-oo-raw', mek-o-raw'
From the same as H3564 in the sense of digging; origin (as if a mine): - birth, habitation, nativity.
Total KJV occurrences: 3
This confirms that Pathros is considered as the birthplace or origin of Egypt.
What does it mean for Pathros to be desolate? It means to be without an inhabitant. Please see scriptural references in verse 7.
Of what significance was Zoan?
Strong's H6814
צֹעַן
tsô‛an
tso'-an
Of Egyptian derivation; Tsoan, a place in Egypt: - Zoan.
Total KJV occurrences: 7
According to Isa. 19:11-13 the princes of Zoan were supposed to be "the counsel of the wise counsellors of Pharaoh" at the time of the Exodus.
What happens to Zoan and what does that mean? "I will set fire to Zoan." To set something on fire is to destroy it. The fire of anarchy is the last phase of trouble, coming prior to the "still small voice" of the Lord's Kingdom when He says to the world: "Peace, be still." This may be indicating how the LORD destroys the world's "counsellors," i.e., by having their advice result in anarchy.
What about No?
Strong's H4996
נֹא
nô'
no
Of Egyptian origin; no (that is, Thebes), the capital of Upper Egypt: - No. Compare H528.
Total KJV occurrences: 5
Here are all the references to No: Jer. 46:25; Eze. 30:14,15,16; Nah. 3:8.
From Microsoft Copilot:
"The ancient Egyptian city of No, often referred to in Greek as Thebes, is one of the most significant and storied urban centers in ancient Egyptian history. In Egyptian texts, it is known as Waset. The city is located along the east bank of the Nile River, where modern Luxor is situated.
Key Aspects of the City of No (Thebes/Waset):
1. Geographic Location: No is located in Upper Egypt, roughly halfway between Aswan and Cairo. Its strategic position along the Nile made it an important center for trade, agriculture, and transportation.
2. Historical Significance: Thebes served as the capital of Egypt during several periods, particularly during the Middle Kingdom and the New Kingdom (c. 1550 1070 BCE) [The beginning of this period appears to mark the time of the Exodus.]. The city rose to prominence as a political, religious, and cultural hub, becoming synonymous with the height of ancient Egyptian civilization.
The Valley of the Kings, situated on the west bank of the Nile across from Thebes, became the burial site of many pharaohs... [including] Ramses II." - chatGPT

Verse 15  Expanded Bible Comments

And I will pour my fury upon Sin, the strength of Egypt; and I will cut off the multitude of No.
QuestionSuggested Answer
What about Sin?
Strong's H5512
סִין
sı̂yn
seen
Of uncertain derivation; Sin, the name of an Egyptian town and (probably) desert adjoining: - Sin.
Total KJV occurrences: 6
Here are all the references to Sin: Exo. 16:1; 17:1; Num. 33:11,12; Eze. 30:15,16.
Using Microsoft Copilot:
"tell me about the ancient Egyptian territory of Sin

The ancient Egyptian territory of Sin, also known as Pelusium, was a significant city located at the eastern edge of Egypt's Nile Delta. It served as a border fortress and was strategically important for protecting Egypt from invasions, particularly from Syria and the sea. The city was known for its production of high-quality flax and an early form of beer called the Pelusian drink."

The name "Sin" is derived from its ancient Egyptian and Hebrew roots, and it was also referred to as Per-Amun, meaning "House or Temple of the sun god Amun". Pelusium played a crucial role in various historical events and was often besieged due to its strategic location."
https://historicaleve.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/ancient-Egypt-map-2-1080x675.jpg
Why does this text refer to "Sin" as "the strength of Egypt?" We suggest that as this was the easternmost city and often under attack, this is likely where much of the Egyptian army would have been stationed, thus "the strength of Egypt."
What do we learn from "I will cut off the multitude of No?" First we notice that it is the LORD who does this, another "I will."We also get the thought that the city of "No" had a "multitude." This would seem to suggest that the emphasis of this text is on the symbolic rather than the literal for by the time of the literal prophet Ezekiel, the city of No (Pelusium) was far past its peek of importance. At its peek it was primarily the north western defense for Egypt.

Verse 16  Expanded Bible Comments

And I will set fire in Egypt: Sin shall have great pain, and No shall be rent asunder, and Noph shall have distresses daily.
QuestionSuggested Answer
What is fire symbolic of? Destruction, anarchy (suggesting how the destruction is carried out.)
Where is this fire (anarchy, destruction?) "In Egypt," the world.
Who sets this fire? "I will," the LORD.
What is indicated by "No shall be rent asunder?" As the city of No was at times the capitol of Egypt, it may be suggestive of the world looking to one source and then another for stability and protection during this time of fire (anarchy, destruction.) During the days of the Seventh Messenger the world looked a lot to the stability of kings. The "Great War" parts I and II brought that to an end. They have since looked to multinational organizations like the United Nations, but still nothing solid. Communism, Socialism, etc. have likewise proven unsatisfactory.
How does the above differ from "Noph shall have distresses daily?"
Strong's H6862
צָר צַר
tsar tsâr
tsar, tsawr
From H6887; narrow; (as a noun) a tight place (usually figuratively, that is, trouble); also a pebble (as in H6864); (transitively) an opponent (as crowding): - adversary, afflicted (-tion), anguish, close, distress, enemy, flint, foe, narrow, small, sorrow, strait, tribulation, trouble.
Total KJV occurrences: 109
Having traced this word throughout the Old Testament we note that the "distress" is always due to some kind of enemy. The "narrow" aspect of the word appears to refer to the path of escape, with the overall thought seeming to be that of being between a rock and a hard place. Consider Balaam and his ass. The ass was in an narrow pass with no place to go when she was confronted by an angel of the LORD (Num. 22:26.) This is the "narrowness" of the situation for the city of Noph.
We also note that, like the city of Noph, this was at times a capitol of Egypt.

Verse 17  Expanded Bible Comments

The young men of Aven and of Pibeseth shall fall by the sword: and these cities shall go into captivity.
QuestionSuggested Answer
What do we know about "Aven?"
Strong's H205
אָוֶן
'âven
aw'-ven
From an unused root perhaps meaning properly to pant (hence to exert oneself, usually in vain; to come to naught); strictly nothingness; also trouble, vanity, wickedness; specifically an idol: - affliction, evil, false, idol, iniquity, mischief, mourners (-ing), naught, sorrow, unjust, unrighteous, vain, vanity, wicked (-ness.) Compare H369.
Total KJV occurrences: 79
While this is the name of a city in Egypt this word is usually translated as "iniquity."

Using Microsoft Copilot: "tell me about the ancient Egyptian territory of Aven
The term "Aven" is mentioned in historical and biblical contexts, often referring to the ancient Egyptian city of On, also known as Heliopolis. This city was a significant religious and cultural center in ancient Egypt, dedicated to the worship of the sun god Ra. Located near modern-day Cairo, Heliopolis was renowned for its grand temples and obelisks."
In biblical texts, "Aven" is sometimes used as a term of contempt, symbolizing idolatry or emptiness. For example, in Ezekiel 30:17, it is associated with On, and in Hosea, the name "Beth-aven" is used to criticize the idolatry at Bethel."
Who is "Pibeseth?"
Strong's H6364
פִּי־בֶסֶת
pı̂y-beseth
pee beh'-seth
Of Egyptian origin; Pi-Beseth, a place in Egypt: - Pi-beseth.
Total KJV occurrences: 1

Using Microsoft Copilot: tell me about the ancient Egyptian territory of Pibeseth
Pibeseth, also known as Bubastis in ancient Egyptian, was a significant city in the Nile Delta region of Lower Egypt. Its name, "Per-Bastet," translates to "House of Bastet," referring to the feline goddess Bastet, who was worshiped there. Bastet was associated with protection, fertility, and motherhood, often depicted as a lioness or a woman with a cat's head.
The city was a cultural and religious hub, famous for its grand temple dedicated to Bastet. It hosted annual festivals in her honor, which were lively events featuring music, dancing, and feasting. Bubastis reached its peak during the 22nd Dynasty, when it became a royal residence.
Archaeological excavations at Bubastis have uncovered ruins of the temple and other artifacts, offering insights into its historical and cultural significance. Today, the site is located near the modern city of Zagazig in Egypt.
What do we see is in common with both the city of Aven and Pibeseth? The most obvious appears to be the worship of false gods.
Why "the young men" of these cities? Young men are physically strong and vital but lack experience and wisdom.
What happens to them and what does that mean? They "shall fall by the sword."
In the literal sense it indicates they will be slain in battle by the weapons of war. In the symbolic sense their beliefs are destroyed by the Truth. This likely includes religious as well as societal truth.
What happens to these cities? "These cities shall go into captivity." It is noteworthy that it does NOT say these cities are destroyed.

Verse 18  Expanded Bible Comments

At Tehaphnehes also the day shall be darkened, when I shall break there the yokes of Egypt: and the pomp of her strength shall cease in her: as for her, a cloud shall cover her, and her daughters shall go into captivity.
QuestionSuggested Answer
What do we know about "Tehaphnehes?"
Strong's H8471
תַּחְפְּנֵס תְּחַפְנְחֵס תַּחְפַּנְחֵסo
tachpanchês techaphnechês tachpenês
takh-pan-khace' tekh-af-nekh-ace' (etc.)
(The second form used in Eze_30:18); (the third form used in Jer_2:16); of Egyptian derivation; Tachpanches, Techaphneches or Tachpenes, a place in Egypt: - Tahapanes, Tahpanhes, Tehaphnehes.
Total KJV occurrences: 7
Found H8471 in the following other verses: Jer. 2:16; 43:7,8,9; 44:1; 46:14.
Using Microsoft Copilot: tell me about the ancient Egyptian territory of Tehaphnehes.

Tehaphnehes, also known as Tahpanhes, was an ancient city in Egypt, located near the eastern frontier of the Nile Delta. It held strategic importance as a military and trade hub. The Greeks referred to it as Daphnae, and today, the site is identified as Tell Defenneh.

Historically, Tehaphnehes is mentioned in the Bible as a place where Jewish refugees, including the prophet Jeremiah, fled after the fall of Jerusalem in 586 BCE [Poor chronology, 606 BC]. The city was significant during the reign of Pharaoh Psammetichus I, who stationed foreign mercenaries there, including Greeks and Carians. Archaeological excavations have uncovered remnants of a fortress and pottery, shedding light on its role during the Late Period of ancient Egypt.

Basically this only tells us that Tehaphnehes was a fortified city "near the eastern frontier of the Nile Delta.."
What do we learn from "At Tehaphnehes also the day shall be darkened?" "At Tehaphnehes [this fortified city (government) on the Eastern edge of Egypt (the world) which therefore should be bathed in the sunlight (from the east) of the new millennial day] also the [millennial] day shall be darkened [at the very time when it should be receiving the light of the new day.]"
What then happens to "the yokes of Egypt" and what does that mean? "I shall break there the yokes of Egypt."
What is "the pomp of her strength" and what happens to it?
Strong's H1347
גָּאוֹן
gâ'ôn
gaw-ohn'
From H1342; the same as H1346: - arrogancy, excellency (-lent), majesty, pomp, pride, proud, swelling.
Total KJV occurrences: 49
Pomp (arrogance) of her strength – Worldly wisdom?
What happens to it? It "shall cease in her."
What covers Egypt at that time and what does that mean? "A cloud shall cover her." The "time of trouble" covers the land of Egypt (the world.) R5213
Who are "her daughters?" What happens to these daughters of Egypt and what does that mean? "Her daughters shall go into captivity."
Strong's H7628
שְׁבִי
shebı̂y
sheb-ee'
From H7618; exiled; captured; as noun, exile (abstractly or concretely and collectively); by extension booty: - captive (-ity), prisoners, X take away, that was taken.
Total KJV occurrences: 50
What does it mean – let's discuss.

Verse 19  Expanded Bible Comments

Thus will I execute judgments in Egypt: and they shall know that I am the LORD.
QuestionSuggested Answer
Reminder question: Who is pictured by Egypt? The world.
What shall Egypt (the world) come to know? "That I am the LORD."

Begin Here April 22, 2025

[20] And it came to pass in the eleventh year, in the first month, in the seventh day of the month, that the word of the LORD came unto me, saying, [21] Son of man, I have broken the arm of Pharaoh king of Egypt; and, lo, it shall not be bound up to be healed, to put a roller to bind it, to make it strong to hold the sword. [22] Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I am against Pharaoh king of Egypt, and will break his arms, the strong, and that which was broken; and I will cause the sword to fall out of his hand. [23] And I will scatter the Egyptians among the nations, and will disperse them through the countries. [24] And I will strengthen the arms of the king of Babylon, and put my sword in his hand: but I will break Pharaoh's arms, and he shall groan before him with the groanings of a deadly wounded man. [25] But I will strengthen the arms of the king of Babylon, and the arms of Pharaoh shall fall down; and they shall know that I am the LORD, when I shall put my sword into the hand of the king of Babylon, and he shall stretch it out upon the land of Egypt. [26] And I will scatter the Egyptians among the nations, and disperse them among the countries; and they shall know that I am the LORD.

Verse 20  Expanded Bible Comments

And it came to pass in the eleventh year, in the first month, in the seventh day of the month, that the word of the LORD came unto me, saying,
QuestionSuggested Answer
When does this take place? "In the eleventh year, in the first month, in the seventh day of the month."
What does this indicate to us? That the LORD has a specific time-oriented plan.
What does this date mean to us? ??
To whom is this part of the prophecy addressed? "The word of the LORD came unto me" – Ezekiel.

Verse 21  Expanded Bible Comments

Son of man, I have broken the arm of Pharaoh king of Egypt; and, lo, it shall not be bound up to be healed, to put a roller to bind it, to make it strong to hold the sword.
QuestionSuggested Answer
How does the LORD address Ezekiel and what does that mean to us? "Son of man." This indicates the same as it has throughout the book of Ezekiel. [Son of Man]
Who is pictured by Pharaoh? Satan.
What does it indicate that his arm would be broken? It indicates that his power to do wield the sword (truth) will be greatly lessened. Remember that the devil also uses the Truth. He uses it in an attempt to lead people away from God. Consider, for example, his use of Truth when tempting our Lord Jesus in the wilderness. Matt. 4:5-6
Is his broken arm to be healed? No. "It shall not be bound up to be healed."
What is "a roller?"
Strong's H2848
חִתּוּל
chittûl
khit-tool'
From H2853; swathed, that is, a bandage: - roller.
Total KJV occurrences: 1
The thought here seems to be that of bandaging a wound.
What would be the purpose of binding up or bandaging it? "To make it strong to hold the sword."

Verse 22  Expanded Bible Comments

Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I am against Pharaoh king of Egypt, and will break his arms, the strong, and that which was broken; and I will cause the sword to fall out of his hand.
QuestionSuggested Answer
This verse begins with "Therefore." What does that tell us? "What's it there for?" It normally indicates cause and effect. The cause has just been described and what follows is the effect or result.
Are we sure of the result? "Thus saith the Lord GOD." – Jehovah.

Verse 23  Expanded Bible Comments

And I will scatter the Egyptians among the nations, and will disperse them through the countries.
QuestionSuggested Answer

Verse 24  Expanded Bible Comments

And I will strengthen the arms of the king of Babylon, and put my sword in his hand: but I will break Pharaoh's arms, and he shall groan before him with the groanings of a deadly wounded man.
QuestionSuggested Answer

Verse 25  Expanded Bible Comments

But I will strengthen the arms of the king of Babylon, and the arms of Pharaoh shall fall down; and they shall know that I am the LORD, when I shall put my sword into the hand of the king of Babylon, and he shall stretch it out upon the land of Egypt.
QuestionSuggested Answer

Verse 26  Expanded Bible Comments

And I will scatter the Egyptians among the nations, and disperse them among the countries; and they shall know that I am the LORD.
QuestionSuggested Answer

Chapter 29   Chapter 31