The nation of Egypt holds a significant place in biblical prophecy, particularly concerning its future status as a "base kingdom." This concept is primarily derived from the prophetic writings of Ezekiel, who foretold a humbling of Egypt that would endure through the ages.

Ezekiel's Prophecy

Ezekiel, a major prophet during the Babylonian exile, delivered a series of oracles against Egypt, which are recorded in Ezekiel 29-32. These prophecies were pronounced during a time when Egypt was a formidable power in the ancient Near East. However, Ezekiel foresaw a dramatic change in its fortunes.

In Ezekiel 29:14-15 , the prophet declares: "I will restore the fortunes of Egypt and bring them back to the land of Pathros, the land of their origin. There they will be a lowly kingdom. It will be the lowliest of kingdoms and will never again exalt itself above the nations. For I will diminish them so they will not rule over the nations."

This passage indicates that while Egypt would be restored to its land, it would never regain its former glory or power. Instead, it would become a "lowly kingdom," a status that would persist indefinitely. The prophecy suggests a divine judgment that would prevent Egypt from rising to a position of dominance among the nations.

Historical Context and Fulfillment

Historically, Egypt experienced a series of invasions and occupations by foreign powers, including the Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, and Romans. Each of these conquests contributed to the decline of Egypt as a major political and military power. By the time of the Roman Empire, Egypt had become a province, further illustrating its diminished status.

The prophecy's fulfillment is seen in Egypt's continued existence as a nation, yet without the imperial power it once wielded. Throughout history, Egypt has remained a significant cultural and historical entity, but it has not achieved the level of influence it held in the ancient world.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the prophecy concerning Egypt serves as a testament to the sovereignty of God over the nations. It underscores the biblical theme that God raises up and brings down kingdoms according to His divine purposes. The humbling of Egypt is a reminder of the transient nature of earthly power and the ultimate authority of God in the affairs of humanity.

The prophecy also reflects the broader biblical narrative of judgment and restoration. While Egypt was judged and reduced in status, the promise of restoration to its land indicates God's ongoing engagement with the nation. This dual theme of judgment and mercy is a recurring motif in the prophetic literature of the Bible.

Conclusion

The prophecy of Egypt as a "base kingdom" is a profound example of biblical prophecy that has resonated through the centuries. It highlights the enduring nature of God's word and His control over the destinies of nations. As such, it remains a significant topic of study for those interested in biblical prophecy and the history of the ancient Near East.Ezekiel 29:15
It shall be the basest of the kingdoms; neither shall it exalt itself any more above the nations: for I will diminish them, that they shall no more rule over the nations.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Translated from the Greek.
... letter." [2932] For if the judgment respecting the "Jew ... If, therefore, the prophecies
relating to Judea, and ... also that the predictions concerning Egypt and the ...
/.../origen/origen de principiis/translated from the greek.htm

The City of God. Index of Subjects.
... his definition of a republic, "was there ever a Roman ... Fig-tree, a singular, of Egypt,
[611]456 ... Hosea, his prophecies respecting the things of the gospel, [858 ...
/.../augustine/on christian doctrine in four books /the city of god index.htm

The Life of Christ.
... had meanwhile fled towards the border of Egypt, and thus ... The silence of all the
evangelists respecting matters of ... and how He was described in the prophecies. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/killen/the ancient church/chapter ii the life of.htm

Colossians iii. 17
... living in Assyria or in Egypt; he addresses ... Critical and historical inquiries respecting
it are, therefore ... himself as the perpetual subject of its prophecies. ...
/.../arnold/the christian life/lecture xxxix colossians iii 17.htm

Period iii. The Critical Period: AD 140 to AD 200
... the twenty-third book of the Exegetics, respecting those that ... He says, also, that
even the prophecies were derived ... who led the people out of the land of Egypt. ...
/.../a source book for ancient church history/period iii the critical period .htm

A Holy Life the Beauty of Christianity: Or, an Exhortation to ...
... in this, keep thine eye much upon thine own base self, be ... bitter water, it makes
the soul good and serviceable for ever. ... 1:Thess.1:4, 5) 'For the kingdom of God ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a holy life the beauty.htm

Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon:
... venture, I would not have been so base to have ... A burdened manner, indeed, as ever,
I think, poor creature ... to prefer it "before the treasures in Egypt" (Heb.11 ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/mr bunyans last sermon .htm

part i
... corrupt nature and from the Devil, ever lying in ... holy, and blessed Father unto the
everlasting Kingdom. ... forget that such passions are base, impure, especially ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part i.htm

What is the significance of Egypt in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

What was the meaning and purpose of the ten plagues of Egypt? | GotQuestions.org

How many Israelites left Egypt in the exodus? | GotQuestions.org

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