Ezekiel 32:25

Among the slain they prepare a resting place for Elam with all her hordes, with her graves all around her. All of them are uncircumcised, slain by the sword, although their terror was once spread in the land of the living. They bear their disgrace with those who descend to the Pit. They are placed among the slain.

Study Bible

Among the slain
This phrase sets the somber tone of the passage, indicating a place of death and defeat. In the Hebrew context, "slain" (הֲרוּגִים, harugim) refers to those who have fallen in battle, often seen as a sign of divine judgment. Historically, being among the slain signifies not just physical death but also spiritual and national disgrace, as it implies a loss of divine favor.

they have made a bed for her
The imagery of making a "bed" (מִשְׁכָּב, mishkav) among the dead suggests a final resting place, a metaphor for death's permanence. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, a bed could symbolize rest or a final abode, indicating that the nation or entity has been laid to rest permanently due to its iniquities.

with all her multitudes
This phrase emphasizes the collective nature of the judgment. The "multitudes" (הֲמוֹן, hamon) refer to the numerous people or armies associated with the nation. It underscores the comprehensive nature of the judgment, affecting not just leaders but entire populations, reflecting the widespread impact of sin and rebellion against God.

Her graves are all around her
The presence of "graves" (קְבָרִים, kevarim) surrounding her signifies complete encirclement by death. In biblical times, graves were often hewn out of rock, symbolizing permanence. This imagery suggests that the nation is surrounded by the consequences of its actions, with no escape from divine judgment.

all of them uncircumcised
In the Hebrew context, being "uncircumcised" (עֲרֵלִים, arelim) was a term of reproach, indicating those outside the covenant community of Israel. It symbolizes spiritual impurity and separation from God. This highlights the spiritual state of those judged, emphasizing their alienation from God's promises.

slain by the sword
The "sword" (חֶרֶב, cherev) is a common biblical symbol of divine judgment and warfare. Being slain by the sword indicates a violent end, often seen as a direct result of God's wrath against sin. It serves as a reminder of the seriousness of turning away from God's commandments.

Although their terror was once spread in the land of the living
This phrase reflects the former power and influence of the nation, which once instilled "terror" (חִתִּיתָם, chittitam) among others. The "land of the living" (אֶרֶץ חַיִּים, eretz chayyim) refers to the world of the living, contrasting with the realm of the dead. It highlights the transient nature of earthly power and the ultimate futility of relying on human strength.

they now bear their disgrace
To "bear disgrace" (נָשָׂא כְּלוֹנָם, nasa kelonam) indicates carrying the weight of shame and dishonor. In biblical terms, disgrace is often associated with divine judgment and the exposure of sin. This phrase underscores the reversal of fortunes, where former oppressors now face humiliation.

with those who descend to the Pit
The "Pit" (בּוֹר, bor) is a metaphor for Sheol, the abode of the dead. Descending to the Pit signifies death and the end of earthly existence. It serves as a stark reminder of the finality of divine judgment and the common destiny of all who reject God's ways.

They are placed among the slain
This concluding phrase reiterates the finality of their judgment. Being "placed" (נָתוּן, natun) among the slain emphasizes the deliberate nature of God's judgment. It serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and the certainty of divine justice, calling readers to reflect on their own spiritual state and relationship with God.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Egypt
The nation being addressed in this passage, symbolizing pride and earthly power that stands against God. Egypt's downfall is a central theme in this chapter.

3. The Pit
A metaphorical place representing Sheol or the grave, often associated with judgment and disgrace in the Hebrew Bible.

4. The Uncircumcised
Refers to those who are not part of God's covenant people, symbolizing spiritual separation from God.

5. The Slain
Those who have died, particularly in battle, representing the ultimate consequence of rebellion against God.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Pride
This passage serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of pride and self-reliance. Nations and individuals who exalt themselves against God will face judgment.

The Reality of Judgment
The imagery of the pit and the slain underscores the reality of divine judgment. It is a call to live in reverence and obedience to God.

The Illusion of Earthly Power
Egypt's terror in the land of the living was temporary. Earthly power and influence are fleeting and should not be the foundation of our security.

The Importance of Covenant Relationship
The reference to the uncircumcised highlights the importance of being in a covenant relationship with God. Spiritual separation leads to disgrace.

Hope in God's Sovereignty
Even in judgment, God's sovereignty is evident. Believers can find hope in His ultimate justice and righteousness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the fate of Egypt in Ezekiel 32:25 serve as a warning to nations and individuals today?

2. In what ways does the imagery of "the Pit" challenge our understanding of life after death and divine judgment?

3. How can we guard against the pride and self-reliance that led to Egypt's downfall?

4. What does it mean to be in a covenant relationship with God, and how does this protect us from spiritual disgrace?

5. How can we find hope and assurance in God's sovereignty, even when facing the reality of judgment?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 14
Similar themes of judgment and disgrace for nations that exalt themselves against God.

Revelation 20
The final judgment and the fate of those who oppose God, paralleling the imagery of disgrace and the pit.

Psalm 49
Discusses the fate of the ungodly and the temporary nature of earthly power and wealth.