Ezekiel 29:11

No foot of man or beast will pass through, and it will be uninhabited for forty years.

Study Bible

No foot of man or beast will pass through
This phrase indicates a complete desolation of the land, emphasizing the severity of God's judgment. In biblical context, such desolation is often a sign of divine wrath and punishment. The imagery of no human or animal presence underscores the totality of the devastation. This can be compared to other instances in Scripture where God pronounces judgment leading to desolation, such as in Isaiah 34:10, where Edom is described as a place where no one will pass through forever and ever. The absence of both man and beast highlights the thoroughness of the destruction, leaving the land barren and lifeless.

and it will be uninhabited for forty years
The specific mention of "forty years" is significant, as the number forty often symbolizes a period of testing, trial, or judgment in the Bible. For example, the Israelites wandered in the wilderness for forty years (Numbers 14:33-34), and Jesus fasted for forty days and nights in the wilderness (Matthew 4:2). This period of forty years for Egypt's desolation serves as a time of divine judgment and purification. Historically, this prophecy against Egypt was fulfilled when Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon invaded and conquered Egypt, leading to a period of decline and desolation. Theologically, this period can be seen as a time for Egypt to reflect on its pride and idolatry, similar to how other nations and individuals in the Bible are given time to repent and turn back to God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who ministered to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. He is the author of the book and delivers God's messages of judgment and restoration.

2. Egypt
A powerful nation in the ancient Near East, often seen as a symbol of worldly power and idolatry. In this context, Egypt is the subject of God's judgment.

3. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, representing the nation's pride and reliance on its own strength rather than on God.

4. Babylonian Exile
The period when the Israelites were taken captive by Babylon. This context is crucial for understanding the prophecies of Ezekiel.

5. Forty Years
A significant period in biblical terms, often associated with testing, judgment, and renewal (e.g., Israel's 40 years in the wilderness).

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God is in control of all nations and their destinies. No power, no matter how great, can stand against His will.

The Consequences of Pride
Egypt's downfall serves as a warning against pride and self-reliance. Nations and individuals must recognize their dependence on God.

The Purpose of Judgment
God's judgments are not arbitrary; they serve to correct, purify, and ultimately lead people back to Him.

The Significance of Forty Years
This period symbolizes a complete cycle of judgment and renewal. It invites reflection on personal and communal times of testing and growth.

Hope Beyond Judgment
Even in judgment, there is hope for restoration. God's ultimate plan is to bring redemption and renewal.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy against Egypt in Ezekiel 29:11 reflect God's sovereignty over all nations?

2. In what ways can the pride of Egypt serve as a warning for individuals and nations today?

3. How does the concept of "forty years" in biblical terms apply to personal spiritual journeys or periods of testing?

4. What parallels can be drawn between the judgment of Egypt and the fall of Babylon in Revelation 18?

5. How can understanding God's purpose in judgment help us respond to difficult circumstances in our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 19
This chapter also prophesies judgment against Egypt, highlighting the consistency of God's message through different prophets.

Jeremiah 46
Jeremiah's prophecy against Egypt parallels Ezekiel's, emphasizing the theme of divine judgment on nations that oppose God's will.

Exodus 7-12
The plagues of Egypt during the time of Moses serve as a historical backdrop for understanding God's power over Egypt and His ability to bring judgment.

Revelation 18
The fall of Babylon in Revelation can be seen as a parallel to the judgment on Egypt, symbolizing the ultimate downfall of worldly powers opposed to God.