Bible Notes Online - Ezekiel 29 - ESV
Commentary

v1-2: Ezekiel devotes four chapters to prophecies regarding Egypt, and these prophecies are dated. They cover a period of around 26 months;

  • 29.1; 10th year, 10th month, 12th day;
  • 30.20; 11th year, 1st month, 7th day;
  • 31.1; 11th year, 3rd month, 1st day;
  • 32.1; 12th year, 12th month, 1st day;
  • 32.17; 12th year, 12th month, 15th day.

The nation of Egypt was a significant influence upon Israel, hence the attention given here. Outside this pattern is 29.17, where the prophecy concerning the invasion of Tyre is dated much later.

v3-5: Egypt the great monster, glorying in her river the Nile, "I made it for myself." Thus, Egypt is both arrogant and ignorant.

v6-7: See Is 36.6; 38.6; Israel had put her confidence in Egypt, see 16.6-7; 17.15, but that confidence proved useless.

v8-11: The Lord's sword against Egypt, its men and animals. The land, once fruitful, would suffer desolation for 40 years. From ‘Migdol to Aswan,’ meaning from one end to the other.

v12: Egyptian people scattered amongst the nations.

v13: The people regathered, Is 19.18-25.

v14-15: A lowly kingdom; even today Egypt has little profile and influence.

v16: The on-going lesson for Israel, to remind them of their iniquity, and the folly of trusting in Egypt.

v17-20: Nebuchadnezzar had already defeated Tyre, but his effort received little reward. However, things would be different when he invaded Egypt, Jer 46.13-26. The defeat of Egypt would bring great wealth. Here again we see the mighty power of God over the nations.

v21: Ezekiel would once more speak to Israel, see 33.22.