The Prophecy of Judgment on Egypt is a significant theme in the biblical narrative, reflecting God's sovereignty over nations and His ability to execute judgment upon them. This theme is primarily found in the prophetic books of the Old Testament, where Egypt, a powerful and influential nation in the ancient Near East, is often depicted as an object of divine judgment due to its idolatry, pride, and opposition to God's people.

Isaiah's Prophecy Against Egypt

In the book of Isaiah, the prophet delivers a series of oracles against various nations, including Egypt. Isaiah 19 provides a detailed prophecy concerning Egypt's downfall. The chapter begins with a vivid depiction of the Lord riding on a swift cloud to execute judgment: "Behold, the LORD rides on a swift cloud and is coming to Egypt. The idols of Egypt tremble before Him, and the hearts of the Egyptians melt within them" (Isaiah 19:1). This imagery underscores the futility of Egypt's idols and the nation's impending fear and confusion.

Isaiah further describes internal strife and economic collapse as part of Egypt's judgment: "I will incite Egyptian against Egyptian; brother will fight against brother, neighbor against neighbor, city against city, kingdom against kingdom" (Isaiah 19:2). The prophecy also foretells the drying up of the Nile, Egypt's lifeline, leading to agricultural devastation and economic ruin (Isaiah 19:5-10).

Jeremiah's Prophecy Against Egypt

Jeremiah, another major prophet, also proclaims judgment against Egypt. In Jeremiah 46, the prophet speaks of Egypt's defeat at the hands of Babylon. The prophecy is set against the backdrop of the Battle of Carchemish, where Pharaoh Necho's forces were defeated by Nebuchadnezzar: "Prepare your shields, both small and large, and march out for battle! Harness the horses; mount the steeds; take your positions with helmets on! Polish your spears; put on armor!" (Jeremiah 46:3-4). Despite Egypt's military preparations, the prophecy declares their inevitable defeat and humiliation.

Ezekiel's Prophecy Against Egypt

Ezekiel's prophecies against Egypt are extensive and detailed, spanning several chapters (Ezekiel 29-32). In Ezekiel 29, the prophet likens Pharaoh to a great monster in the Nile, symbolizing Egypt's pride and self-reliance: "I am against you, Pharaoh king of Egypt, the great monster lying in the midst of his rivers, who has said, 'My Nile is my own; I made it for myself'" (Ezekiel 29:3). The prophecy announces Egypt's desolation and the scattering of its people.

Ezekiel 30 continues with a lament for Egypt, predicting a day of darkness and doom: "Wail, 'Alas for that day!' For the day is near, the day of the LORD is near—a day of clouds, a time of doom for the nations" (Ezekiel 30:2-3). The prophecy details the fall of Egypt's cities and the breaking of its power.

Historical Context and Theological Significance

The prophecies against Egypt are set against the historical backdrop of the ancient Near East, where Egypt was a dominant power. These prophecies reflect the geopolitical realities of the time, including Egypt's interactions with Israel and other nations. Theologically, the prophecies underscore God's control over history and His ability to humble even the mightiest of nations. They serve as a warning against idolatry, pride, and reliance on human strength rather than on God.

Throughout the biblical narrative, Egypt is often portrayed as a symbol of worldly power and opposition to God's purposes. The prophecies of judgment against Egypt highlight the ultimate futility of opposing God's will and the certainty of His justice.