Ezekiel 32:20

They will fall among those slain by the sword. The sword is appointed! Let them drag her away along with all her multitudes.

Study Bible

They will fall among those slain by the sword.
This phrase indicates a judgment pronounced by God through the prophet Ezekiel. The imagery of falling by the sword is a common biblical metaphor for defeat and destruction in battle, often used to describe divine judgment against nations or individuals who have opposed God's will. In the context of Ezekiel, this prophecy is directed towards Egypt, a nation that had been a significant power in the ancient Near East. Historically, Egypt had been involved in various conflicts with Israel and other nations, often opposing God's people. The sword symbolizes God's instrument of judgment, and falling among the slain suggests a complete and utter defeat, aligning with the broader theme of divine retribution found throughout the prophetic books.

The sword is appointed!
This phrase emphasizes the certainty and inevitability of the judgment. The appointment of the sword signifies that this is a divine decree, not a random act of violence. In biblical terms, when God appoints something, it is assured to come to pass. This reflects the sovereignty of God over the nations and His control over historical events. The use of the sword as an appointed instrument of judgment can be seen in other scriptures, such as Jeremiah 25:31, where God declares His judgment against the nations. It underscores the theme of divine justice and the fulfillment of God's prophetic word.

Let them drag her away along with all her multitudes.
This part of the verse portrays the aftermath of the judgment, where the defeated are taken away. The imagery of being dragged away suggests humiliation and subjugation, common consequences for defeated nations in the ancient world. The mention of "her multitudes" indicates the vast number of people affected by this judgment, highlighting the comprehensive nature of God's decree against Egypt. This can be connected to the broader biblical narrative where entire nations face consequences for their actions, as seen in the fall of Babylon (Isaiah 47) and other empires. The dragging away of multitudes also foreshadows the ultimate judgment and separation described in eschatological passages, such as Matthew 25:31-46, where nations are gathered and judged before Christ.

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 hope.

2. Egypt
The nation being addressed in this chapter. Egypt is often symbolic of worldly power and pride, and here it faces judgment for its arrogance and opposition to God.

3. The Sword
Represents God's instrument of judgment. In the context of Ezekiel, it often symbolizes the Babylonian army, which God uses to execute His judgment.

4. The Multitudes
Refers to the people of Egypt, including its leaders and warriors, who will face destruction.

5. The Pit
Symbolic of Sheol or the grave, where the dead reside. It signifies the ultimate end of those who oppose God.

Teaching Points

The Certainty of God's Judgment
God's judgment is inevitable for those who persist in pride and rebellion. Just as Egypt faced the sword, so too will all who oppose God.

The Sovereignty of God
God uses nations and events to accomplish His purposes. The Babylonian army was an instrument in His hand, demonstrating His control over history.

The Call to Humility
Pride leads to downfall. Believers are called to humility, recognizing that all power and authority belong to God.

The Reality of Spiritual Consequences
The imagery of the pit reminds us of the spiritual consequences of sin. It is a call to repentance and faith in Christ, who offers salvation from eternal separation from God.

Hope in God's Justice
While judgment is severe, it is also just. Believers can find hope in the fact that God will ultimately set all things right.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the sword in Ezekiel 32:20 help us understand God's judgment?

2. In what ways does the fate of Egypt serve as a warning to modern nations and individuals?

3. How can we apply the lesson of humility from this passage in our daily lives?

4. What other biblical examples illustrate the theme of God's sovereignty over nations?

5. How does understanding the reality of spiritual consequences impact our approach to evangelism and discipleship?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 14
This chapter also speaks of the downfall of a proud nation and its leaders, drawing parallels to the fate of Egypt in Ezekiel 32.

Revelation 19
The imagery of the sword as a tool of divine judgment is echoed in the New Testament, where Christ is depicted as executing judgment on the nations.

Jeremiah 46
Jeremiah prophesies against Egypt, reinforcing the theme of God's judgment on nations that oppose His will.