Ezekiel 17:15
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Ezekiel 17:15
15 But he rebelled against him in sending his ambassadors into Egypt, that they might give him horses and much people. Shall he prosper? shall he escape that doeth such things? or shall he break the covenant, and be delivered?
Chapter Context
Ezekiel 17 is a prophetic vision chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, grace, salvation. Written during the Babylonian exile (c. 593-570 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ministered to exiles in Babylon with visions of God's glory and future restoration.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-24: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Ezekiel and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Ezekiel 17:15
15 But he rebelled against him in sending his ambassadors into Egypt, that they might give him horses and much people. Shall he prosper? shall he escape that doeth such things? or shall he break the covenant, and be delivered?
Analysis
Zedekiah 'rebelled...in sending his ambassadors into Egypt, that they might give him horses and much people.' Seeking Egyptian military aid violated treaty and God's commands. Rhetorical questions expect negative answers. Hebrew parar ('break') suggests shattering what should bind. Covenant-breaking brings consequences, not deliverance.
Historical Context
Lachish letters (archaeological evidence) mention watching for signals during Babylonian siege, confirming the desperate situation. Letters reference officials going to Egypt, corroborating biblical accounts. Pharaoh Hophra's army briefly advanced (Jeremiah 37:5), causing temporary Babylonian withdrawal before returning with fury.
Reflection
- What modern 'Egyptian horses' tempt us to trust human solutions over God?
- How does covenant-breaking in relationships demonstrate our theology of commitment?
Word Studies
- Covenant: בְּרִית (Berit) H1285 - Covenant, treaty
Cross-References
- Covenant: Ezekiel 17:18
- References Egypt: Deuteronomy 17:16
- Parallel theme: Ezekiel 17:7, 17:9, 2 Kings 24:20, 2 Chronicles 36:13, Jeremiah 34:3, 38:18