Ezekiel 29:1
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Ezekiel 29:1
1 In the tenth year, in the tenth month, in the twelfth day of the month, the word of the LORD came unto me, saying,
Chapter Context
Ezekiel 29 is a prophetic vision chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of faith, salvation, discipleship. 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 21-21: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. 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 29:1
1 In the tenth year, in the tenth month, in the twelfth day of the month, the word of the LORD came unto me, saying,
Analysis
The precise dating formula ('tenth year, tenth month, twelfth day') establishes prophetic credibility and historical specificity. This oracle came in January 587 BC, during Jerusalem's final siege. Egypt's political role made her a false refuge for Judah—trusting Egypt rather than God exemplified covenant unfaithfulness. This prophecy reveals that all false securities face divine judgment.
Historical Context
Pharaoh Hophra (589-570 BC) briefly interrupted Jerusalem's siege, causing Babylon to temporarily withdraw. This led Jerusalem's leaders to believe Egypt would deliver them, ignoring Jeremiah's warnings. Babylon soon resumed the siege, leading to Jerusalem's fall in 586 BC.
Reflection
- What false securities or 'Egypts' are you tempted to trust instead of God?
- How does God's judgment of false hopes serve as merciful correction to redirect trust toward Him?
Word Studies
- Word: דָּבָר (Davar) H1697 - Word, thing, matter
Cross-References
- References Lord: Ezekiel 20:1
- Word: Ezekiel 26:1, 29:17