Ezekiel 32:31

Pharaoh will see them and be comforted over all his multitude--Pharaoh and all his army, slain by the sword, declares the Lord GOD.

Study Bible

Pharaoh will see them and be comforted over all his multitude
This phrase suggests a vision or understanding granted to Pharaoh in the afterlife, where he observes the fate of others who have gone before him. In the context of Ezekiel 32, this refers to the judgment upon Egypt and its leader, Pharaoh. The imagery of the afterlife here is consistent with ancient Near Eastern beliefs about the dead being aware of their surroundings. The "comfort" mentioned is ironic, as it implies a grim satisfaction in seeing others share his fate. This reflects the biblical theme of divine justice, where the proud and powerful are brought low. The multitude refers to the Egyptian army and people, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the judgment.

Pharaoh and all his army
This phrase highlights the collective judgment on both the leader and his forces. Historically, Egypt was a dominant power, often relying on its military might. The mention of the army underscores the futility of relying on human strength against divine judgment. This is a recurring theme in the Bible, where God opposes the proud and brings down those who trust in their own power (Isaiah 31:1-3). The judgment on Pharaoh and his army serves as a warning to other nations and leaders who might oppose God's will.

slain by the sword
The sword is a common biblical symbol of judgment and warfare. In this context, it signifies the violent end that awaits Pharaoh and his forces. This phrase connects to the broader theme of divine retribution found throughout the prophetic books, where God uses nations as instruments of His judgment (Jeremiah 25:9). The imagery of the sword also points to the inevitability of God's decrees, as seen in the fall of other nations like Assyria and Babylon. The sword here is not just a literal weapon but a representation of God's righteous judgment.

declares the Lord GOD
This phrase emphasizes the authority and certainty of the prophecy. The use of "declares the Lord GOD" is a common prophetic formula that underscores the divine origin of the message. It assures the audience that the words spoken are not merely human predictions but are guaranteed by the sovereign will of God. This declaration serves as a reminder of God's ultimate control over history and His ability to bring about His purposes, as seen in other prophetic declarations (Isaiah 46:10). The use of "Lord GOD" highlights both His covenantal relationship with His people and His supreme authority over all nations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, representing the nation and its power. In this context, Pharaoh symbolizes pride and opposition to God.

2. The Multitude
Refers to the armies and people of Egypt who have been defeated and are now in the realm of the dead.

3. The Sword
Symbolizes judgment and destruction, often used in the Bible to represent divine retribution.

4. The Lord GOD
The sovereign and ultimate authority, declaring judgment over Egypt and its ruler.

5. The Realm of the Dead
The place where the defeated armies and Pharaoh find themselves, a metaphor for the consequences of opposing God.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Pride
Pharaoh's downfall serves as a warning against pride and self-reliance. God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.

Divine Justice
God's judgment is just and inevitable. The fate of Pharaoh and his army reminds us that no earthly power can stand against God's will.

Comfort in God's Sovereignty
Believers can find comfort in knowing that God is in control and that He will ultimately bring justice to all.

The Reality of Judgment
This passage serves as a sobering reminder of the reality of divine judgment and the importance of aligning ourselves with God's purposes.

Hope for the Righteous
While the wicked face judgment, the righteous can look forward to vindication and eternal life with God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the fate of Pharaoh and his army illustrate the consequences of pride and opposition to God?

2. In what ways can we see the theme of divine justice in our world today, and how should this influence our actions and attitudes?

3. How does the concept of God's sovereignty provide comfort in times of uncertainty or injustice?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure we are aligning ourselves with God's purposes rather than opposing them?

5. How can the hope of ultimate justice and vindication for the righteous encourage us in our daily walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 14
This chapter also speaks of the downfall of a proud ruler and the resulting comfort of those who see his demise, drawing a parallel to the fate of Pharaoh.

Revelation 19
Describes the ultimate defeat of the enemies of God, similar to the judgment pronounced on Pharaoh and his army.

Psalm 9:17
Speaks of the wicked being turned into Sheol, connecting to the theme of divine judgment and the fate of those who oppose God.