Ezekiel 17:3

and tell them that this is what the Lord GOD says: 'A great eagle with great wings and long pinions, full of feathers of many colors, came to Lebanon and took away the top of the cedar.

Study Bible

and tell them that this is what the Lord GOD says:
This phrase introduces a divine message, emphasizing the authority and sovereignty of God. In the prophetic tradition, the phrase "the Lord GOD says" underscores that the message is not from the prophet himself but from God. This is a common introduction in prophetic literature, indicating the seriousness and divine origin of the message. It sets the stage for a parable or allegory, a method often used by prophets to convey deeper truths.

‘A great eagle with great wings and long pinions,
The "great eagle" symbolizes a powerful nation or ruler. In the context of Ezekiel, this eagle represents Babylon and its king, Nebuchadnezzar. The imagery of an eagle is used elsewhere in Scripture to denote swiftness and strength (e.g., Deuteronomy 28:49, Isaiah 46:11). The "great wings and long pinions" suggest the extensive reach and influence of Babylon, capable of swift and decisive action.

full of feathers of many colors,
The "feathers of many colors" may symbolize the diversity and wealth of the Babylonian empire, which was composed of various peoples and cultures. This imagery highlights the grandeur and splendor of Babylon, as well as its ability to attract and incorporate different nations under its rule. The multicolored feathers could also imply the strategic alliances and vassal states under Babylon's control.

came to Lebanon
Lebanon is known for its majestic cedar trees, which were highly valued in the ancient Near East for construction and trade. In this context, "Lebanon" symbolizes the land of Israel, particularly Jerusalem, which was under Babylonian influence. The use of "Lebanon" evokes the idea of beauty and strength, as well as the political and economic significance of the region.

and took away the top of the cedar.
The "top of the cedar" represents the leadership or the royal line of Judah. This action refers to the deportation of King Jehoiachin and the nobility of Judah to Babylon in 597 BC. The cedar, a symbol of strength and majesty, being stripped of its top, signifies the removal of the kingdom's power and autonomy. This act is a fulfillment of God's judgment on Judah for its disobedience, as prophesied by earlier prophets. The imagery also foreshadows the eventual restoration and hope for a remnant, as the cedar is not completely destroyed.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Great Eagle
Symbolizes a powerful king or nation. In the context of Ezekiel 17, it represents Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, who had significant influence and power.

2. Lebanon
Known for its majestic cedars, Lebanon here symbolizes the land of Israel, particularly its leadership and nobility.

3. The Cedar
Represents the royal line of David, specifically the leadership of Judah. The top of the cedar being taken away signifies the removal of the king or the nobility.

4. Ezekiel
The prophet who delivers God's message through this parable. He is tasked with conveying God's judgment and hope to the exiled Israelites.

5. The Lord GOD
The sovereign God who orchestrates the events described in the parable, demonstrating His control over nations and kings.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
The imagery of the great eagle and the cedar highlights God's control over the rise and fall of nations and leaders. Believers can trust in God's ultimate authority and plan, even amidst political turmoil.

The Consequences of Disobedience
The removal of the top of the cedar serves as a warning of the consequences of Israel's disobedience. It reminds us of the importance of faithfulness to God's covenant.

Hope in Restoration
While the parable begins with judgment, it ultimately points to God's promise of restoration. This encourages believers to hold onto hope, knowing that God can bring renewal and redemption.

The Importance of Leadership
The focus on the cedar's top being taken away underscores the significance of godly leadership. It challenges us to pray for and support leaders who seek to honor God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the great eagle and the cedar help us understand God's sovereignty over world events today?

2. In what ways can we see the consequences of disobedience in our own lives, and how can we seek God's forgiveness and restoration?

3. How does the promise of restoration in Ezekiel 17 encourage us in times of personal or communal hardship?

4. What qualities should we look for in leaders, both in the church and in society, based on the lessons from this passage?

5. How can we apply the lessons of Ezekiel 17 to our prayer life, particularly in praying for our nation and its leaders?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Daniel 4
The imagery of a great tree being cut down parallels the removal of leadership and the humbling of a powerful king, similar to Nebuchadnezzar's experience.

Jeremiah 22
This passage speaks of the judgment on the house of David, aligning with the symbolism of the cedar being taken away.

Isaiah 10
The use of trees and forests as metaphors for nations and leaders is a common biblical motif, illustrating God's sovereignty over them.