In that day shall five cities in the land of Egypt speak the language of Canaan, and swear to the LORD of hosts; one shall be called, The city of destruction.
'In that day shall five cities in the land of Egypt speak the language of Canaan, and swear to the LORD of hosts; one shall be called, The city of destruction.' Future conversion of Egyptian cities to worship Yahweh. 'Language of Canaan' means Hebrew, but figuratively indicates adopting Israelite faith and covenant relationship. 'Swear to the LORD' indicates covenant commitment. This eschatological vision sees Egyptian cities becoming worshippers of Israel's God. 'The city of destruction' is textually uncertain—some manuscripts read 'city of the sun' (Heliopolis), others 'city of destruction' (perhaps ironic renaming). Either way, the prophecy envisions widespread Egyptian conversion. This demonstrates God's redemptive purposes extend beyond judgment to salvation—even judged nations will eventually worship Him. Reformed theology sees this as prefiguring Gentile inclusion in the covenant, fulfilled in the multi-ethnic Church.
Historical Context
Historical fulfillment included Jewish communities in Egypt (Elephantine, Alexandria), and eventually widespread Egyptian Christian conversion. By the 4th century CE, Egypt was largely Christian—famous for producing church fathers (Athanasius, Cyril, Anthony), monasticism, and theological schools. The 'five cities' likely symbolizes significant presence rather than literal five. Egyptian Orthodox Christianity remained strong until Islamic conquest (7th century), and Coptic Christians continue as minority. The prophecy demonstrated God's heart for all nations—even proud Egypt that enslaved Israel would eventually worship Israel's God. This partial historical fulfillment anticipates complete fulfillment when all nations worship Christ (Revelation 7:9).
Questions for Reflection
What does Egyptian cities speaking Hebrew and worshipping Yahweh teach about God's redemptive purposes?
How did Egyptian Christianity partially fulfill this prophecy?
In what ways does this prefigure the multi-ethnic Church including all nations?
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Analysis & Commentary
'In that day shall five cities in the land of Egypt speak the language of Canaan, and swear to the LORD of hosts; one shall be called, The city of destruction.' Future conversion of Egyptian cities to worship Yahweh. 'Language of Canaan' means Hebrew, but figuratively indicates adopting Israelite faith and covenant relationship. 'Swear to the LORD' indicates covenant commitment. This eschatological vision sees Egyptian cities becoming worshippers of Israel's God. 'The city of destruction' is textually uncertain—some manuscripts read 'city of the sun' (Heliopolis), others 'city of destruction' (perhaps ironic renaming). Either way, the prophecy envisions widespread Egyptian conversion. This demonstrates God's redemptive purposes extend beyond judgment to salvation—even judged nations will eventually worship Him. Reformed theology sees this as prefiguring Gentile inclusion in the covenant, fulfilled in the multi-ethnic Church.