17:13 17:13

Ezekiel 17:14

17:15 17:15

Bible Versions

That the kingdom might be base, that it might not lift itself up, [but] that by keeping of his covenant it might stand.
That the kingdom {H4467} might be base {H8217}, that it might not lift itself up {H5375}, but that by keeping {H8104} of his covenant {H1285} it might stand {H5975}.
so that this kingdom of his would stay humble and not develop aspirations of its own; rather, it would keep his covenant and live accordingly.
so that the kingdom would be brought low, unable to lift itself up, surviving only by keeping his covenant.
that the kingdom might be base, that it might not lift itself up, but that by keeping his covenant it might stand.

Ezekiel 17:14 is part of a complex allegory given by the prophet Ezekiel, explaining God's judgment on the kingdom of Judah and its king, Zedekiah. This verse reveals the divine purpose behind the humbling of Judah under Babylonian rule: to prevent pride and ensure stability through covenant faithfulness.

Context

Chapter 17 of Ezekiel presents a parable of two great eagles and a vine. The first great eagle represents Nebuchadnezzar, King of Babylon, who came to Jerusalem, removed King Jehoiachin, and set up Zedekiah (the "tender one" from the vine's branches) as a vassal king (2 Kings 24:17). Zedekiah swore an oath of allegiance to Nebuchadnezzar, which was effectively an oath before God (Ezekiel 17:13). However, Zedekiah later rebelled, seeking help from Egypt (the second great eagle). This verse explains that the initial humbling of Judah was intended to make the kingdom "base" or humble, preventing it from exalting itself, and to ensure its stability through adherence to the sworn covenant.

Key Themes

  • Divine Humiliation and Sovereignty: God orchestrated the humbling of Judah ("that the kingdom might be base") to curb its pride and self-exaltation. This demonstrates God's ultimate control over nations and their leaders, using even foreign powers to achieve His purposes.
  • Covenant Faithfulness: The core message is that true stability ("that it might stand") comes from keeping one's covenant. For Zedekiah, this was the oath sworn to Nebuchadnezzar, which God considered a sacred obligation. Breaking this oath was a grave sin, leading to further judgment (Ezekiel 17:19).
  • Consequences of Pride: The verse implicitly warns against the dangers of pride ("that it might not lift itself up"). Judah's desire to assert its independence and seek foreign alliances, rather than remaining faithful to its sworn word, led to its downfall. This echoes timeless wisdom about the perils of arrogance (Proverbs 16:18).

Linguistic Insights

  • The Hebrew word for "base" (shaphal) means low, humble, or abased. It describes a state of being brought down from a high position, not necessarily morally corrupt, but subservient.
  • "Lift itself up" comes from the Hebrew nasa', meaning to raise, exalt, or be proud. It highlights the divine intention to prevent Judah's self-exaltation and reliance on its own strength or foreign alliances.
  • The term "covenant" (Hebrew: berith) refers to a solemn, binding agreement. While this particular covenant was a political treaty, its sanctity was upheld by God because it was sworn in His name, making its violation a breach of divine trust.

Practical Application

Ezekiel 17:14 offers profound lessons for believers today:

  • The Importance of Humility: Both individuals and nations are called to humility. Pride often precedes a fall, while a humble spirit acknowledges dependence on God and leads to lasting stability.
  • Integrity in Promises: This verse underscores the sacredness of oaths and promises. Whether in personal relationships, business dealings, or civic duties, keeping one's word is foundational to integrity and earns trust, both human and divine (Psalm 15:4).
  • Understanding God's Purpose in Hardship: Sometimes, God allows humbling circumstances in our lives to prevent us from becoming too proud or self-reliant. These moments, though difficult, can be opportunities for growth and a deeper reliance on Him, ultimately leading to greater stability and blessing.
Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Ezekiel 29:14

    And I will bring again the captivity of Egypt, and will cause them to return [into] the land of Pathros, into the land of their habitation; and they shall be there a base kingdom.

  • Matthew 22:17

    Tell us therefore, What thinkest thou? Is it lawful to give tribute unto Caesar, or not?

  • Matthew 22:21

    They say unto him, Caesar's. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's.

  • Deuteronomy 28:43

    The stranger that [is] within thee shall get up above thee very high; and thou shalt come down very low.

  • Lamentations 5:10

    Our skin was black like an oven because of the terrible famine.

  • Jeremiah 38:17

    Then said Jeremiah unto Zedekiah, Thus saith the LORD, the God of hosts, the God of Israel; If thou wilt assuredly go forth unto the king of Babylon's princes, then thy soul shall live, and this city shall not be burned with fire; and thou shalt live, and thine house:

  • Nehemiah 9:36

    Behold, we [are] servants this day, and [for] the land that thou gavest unto our fathers to eat the fruit thereof and the good thereof, behold, we [are] servants in it:
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