Ezekiel 17:5

KJV

He took also of the seed of the land, and planted it in a fruitful field; he placed [it] by great waters, [and] set it [as] a willow tree.

KJV (with Strong's)

He took {H3947} also of the seed {H2233} of the land {H776}, and planted {H5414} it in a fruitful {H2233} field {H7704}; he placed {H3947} it by great {H7227} waters {H4325}, and set {H7760} it as a willow tree {H6851}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He also took some of the seed in the land and planted it in fertile soil, placing it where there was abundant water, as one would a willow.

Berean Standard Bible

He took some of the seed of the land and planted it in fertile soil; he placed it by abundant waters and set it out like a willow.

American Standard Version

He took also of the seed of the land, and planted it in a fruitful soil; he placed it beside many waters; he set it as a willow-tree.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 17:5 is a pivotal verse within the "Parable of the Two Eagles and the Vine," an intricate allegory delivered by the prophet Ezekiel during the Babylonian exile. This verse details the actions of the first great eagle, representing King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon, who, after deporting King Jehoiachin, established a new ruler in Jerusalem. It describes the planting of a native "seed of the land"—specifically Mattaniah (renamed Zedekiah)—in a "fruitful field" by "great waters," setting him up as a "willow tree," symbolizing his intended subservience and dependency on Babylon for the stability and prosperity of his vassal kingdom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezekiel 17:5 is an integral part of an extended prophetic allegory (Ezekiel 17:1-24) that God gave to Ezekiel to explain the complex political and theological situation of Judah during the Babylonian exile. The parable opens with two great eagles and a vine, representing Babylon and Egypt, and the kingdom of Judah, respectively. The first eagle (Nebuchadnezzar) comes to Lebanon (Jerusalem), takes the highest branch (King Jehoiachin and the elite), and carries it to a land of merchants (Babylon). Verse 5 then introduces the second phase of this action: the same eagle takes a "seed of the land" and plants it, establishing a new, dependent kingdom. This sets the stage for the subsequent verses (Ezekiel 17:6-10), which describe the vine's (Judah's) initial growth under Babylonian suzerainty, and its eventual rebellion by turning toward the second great eagle (Egypt), leading to its ultimate destruction. The parable is later interpreted explicitly by God in [Ezekiel 17:11-21](/ezekiel/17-11 "Ezekiel 17:11-21 - Interpretation of the Parable").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical backdrop for this prophecy is the period immediately following the first Babylonian siege of Jerusalem in 597 BC. King Nebuchadnezzar had deposed King Jehoiachin and exiled him along with the cream of Judah's society, including Ezekiel himself (cf. [2 Kings 24:10-16](/2_kings/24-10 "2 Kings 24:10-16 - Jehoiachin's Captivity")). In Jehoiachin's place, Nebuchadnezzar appointed Mattaniah, Jehoiachin’s uncle, renaming him Zedekiah (cf. [2 Kings 24:17](/2_kings/24-17 "2 Kings 24:17 - Zedekiah Appointed King")). This act was a strategic move to ensure Judah remained a loyal vassal state. The "fruitful field" and "great waters" symbolize the fertile, well-resourced land of Babylon, or more broadly, the sphere of Babylonian power and influence, which was intended to nourish and sustain Zedekiah's reign. The "willow tree" (Hebrew: *tsaphtsâphâh*) is culturally significant; willows thrive in well-watered areas and are known for their rapid growth and pliable nature. This imagery underscores Zedekiah's expected reliance and subservience to Babylon for his kingdom's stability and prosperity, a stark reminder of Judah's diminished sovereignty.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Ezekiel and the broader prophetic literature. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty** over nations and their rulers. Even the seemingly autonomous actions of a powerful king like Nebuchadnezzar are portrayed as instruments in God's hands to execute His judgment and disciplinary plan for Judah (cf. [Isaiah 10:5-7](/isaiah/10-5 "Isaiah 10:5-7 - Assyria as God's Rod")). Secondly, the imagery of the "seed" planted by "great waters" as a "willow tree" vividly illustrates the theme of **Vassalage and Dependency**. Zedekiah's rule, and indeed the very existence of the remnant kingdom of Judah, was entirely contingent upon his loyalty to Babylon and the terms of the covenant he swore in the Lord's name. This dependency would become a crucial test of Judah's faithfulness. Lastly, the verse functions as a crucial setup for the theme of **Setting the Stage for Judgment**. While Nebuchadnezzar's act appears to be a benevolent establishment of a new king, it was a profound test of Judah's obedience. Zedekiah's subsequent rebellion against this divinely orchestrated covenant, detailed later in [Ezekiel 17:15](/ezekiel/17-15 "Ezekiel 17:15 - Zedekiah's Rebellion"), ultimately led to Jerusalem's final destruction and the complete Babylonian captivity, fulfilling God's prophetic warnings.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **seed (Hebrew, _zeraʻ'_):** From the root זָרַע, meaning "to sow." In this context, *zeraʻ* refers to the "offspring" or "posterity" of the land, specifically the native royal lineage. It signifies Mattaniah (Zedekiah), who was of the royal house of Judah, distinguishing him as a local appointment rather than a foreign transplant. The term emphasizes his origin from the land itself, making his subsequent disloyalty even more poignant.
* **planted (Hebrew, _nâthan'_):** A primitive root meaning "to give," but used with a vast latitude of application including "to put," "to place," "to set," or "to appoint." Here, *nâthan* conveys the intentional act of the eagle (Nebuchadnezzar) in establishing Zedekiah on the throne. It's not merely a passive placement but an active, deliberate installation, highlighting the foreign power's agency in determining Judah's leadership.
* **willow tree (Hebrew, _tsaphtsâphâh'_):** Derived from צוּף, referring to a tree that grows in overflowed places, specifically a willow. The *tsaphtsâphâh* is characterized by its need for abundant water and its rapid, often sprawling growth. Symbolically, it represents Zedekiah's kingdom, which was expected to flourish, but only if it remained deeply rooted in and dependent upon the "great waters" of Babylonian suzerainty. Its pliable nature also hints at the expected subservience.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"He took also of the seed of the land":** This clause describes the first action of the great eagle (Nebuchadnezzar). "The seed of the land" explicitly refers to Mattaniah (Zedekiah), who was a native of Judah and of the royal Davidic lineage, chosen by Nebuchadnezzar to replace his nephew, Jehoiachin. This highlights the Babylonian king's strategic decision to appoint a local ruler rather than a foreign governor, aiming for stability through a familiar face.
* **"and planted it in a fruitful field":** This signifies the establishment of Zedekiah's kingdom in Judah under Babylonian oversight. The "fruitful field" represents the territory of Judah itself, which, though ravaged by previous sieges, still held the potential for prosperity if it remained loyal to Babylon. It implies an environment designed for growth and sustenance, provided the conditions set by the "planter" were met.
* **"he placed [it] by great waters":** This further elaborates on the conditions for the "seed's" growth. "Great waters" symbolize the ample resources, protection, and power of the Babylonian empire. Zedekiah's reign was intended to be sustained and nourished by Babylon's might, emphasizing his complete dependency. The imagery suggests a deliberate act of ensuring the vassal kingdom's vitality, but only within the confines of the suzerain's control.
* **"and set it [as] a willow tree":** This final phrase defines the nature of the established kingdom. The "willow tree" (tsaphtsâphâh) is a metaphor for Zedekiah's reign. Willows are known for their rapid growth and their absolute reliance on abundant water. This symbolizes the expectation that Zedekiah's kingdom would thrive and expand, but only if it remained firmly rooted in and subservient to the "great waters" of Babylon. It also subtly hints at the tree's pliable nature, suggesting a kingdom expected to bend to the will of its overlord.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 17:5 is rich with literary devices, primarily **Allegory**, **Symbolism**, and **Metaphor**. The entire chapter functions as an **Allegory**, where the narrative of the two eagles and the vine represents actual historical events and characters. The "seed of the land" is a **symbol** for Mattaniah/Zedekiah, the native royal successor. The "fruitful field" and "great waters" are **symbols** of the land of Judah and the overarching power/resources of Babylon, respectively. The phrase "set it as a willow tree" is a powerful **metaphor** comparing Zedekiah's kingdom to a willow. This metaphor underscores the expected characteristics of his rule: rapid growth and apparent flourishing, but utterly dependent on the "waters" (Babylonian suzerainty) for its very existence. The choice of the willow also subtly foreshadows its ultimate weakness and inability to stand independently when faced with the "east wind" of God's judgment, as described later in the parable.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 17:5 profoundly illustrates God's active involvement in human history, even in the seemingly secular realm of political power and international relations. It underscores that no earthly kingdom, no matter how powerful, operates outside the divine will. Nebuchadnezzar's actions, though driven by imperial ambition, were ultimately instruments in God's hand to discipline Judah. This verse, therefore, serves as a powerful reminder of God's absolute sovereignty, orchestrating events to fulfill His purposes, whether through judgment or restoration. It also highlights the solemnity of covenants and the severe consequences of breaking them, especially when sworn in the Lord's name, as Zedekiah's oath to Babylon was. The imagery of dependency also points to a deeper theological truth: true flourishing, for individuals and nations, comes from relying on the true source of life and power, which is God Himself, not on shifting earthly alliances.

* [Daniel 2:21](/daniel/2-21 "Daniel 2:21 - God Changes Times and Seasons, Removes and Sets Up Kings")
* [Proverbs 21:1](/proverbs/21-1 "Proverbs 21:1 - The King's Heart is a Stream in the Hand of the Lord")
* [Isaiah 30:1-3](/isaiah/30-1 "Isaiah 30:1-3 - Woe to Rebellious Children Who Go Down to Egypt for Help")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 17:5 offers profound insights for contemporary reflection. It challenges us to look beyond immediate circumstances and human actors to discern the hand of God at work, even in complex geopolitical situations or personal trials. Just as Zedekiah's kingdom was entirely dependent on the "great waters" of Babylon, our lives, ministries, and endeavors are utterly dependent on God's sustaining grace and provision. Any attempt to seek security or prosperity apart from Him, or to break covenants made with Him, inevitably leads to spiritual barrenness and judgment. This verse calls us to cultivate a deep and abiding trust in God's sovereignty, recognizing that He is always at work, even when His methods are mysterious or involve difficult circumstances. It also serves as a potent reminder of the sanctity of oaths and commitments, urging us to be people of integrity whose word is trustworthy, reflecting the faithfulness of God Himself.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you tempted to rely on "great waters" (worldly resources, human strength, fleeting alliances) rather than on God alone?**
* **How does understanding God's sovereignty in historical events like Zedekiah's appointment impact your perspective on current global or personal challenges?**
* **What "covenants" or commitments (to God, family, community) have you made, and how can you ensure you remain faithful to them, understanding the spiritual implications of your integrity?**

### FAQ
**Who do the "seed of the land" and the "willow tree" represent in Ezekiel 17:5?**

Answer: In Ezekiel 17:5, the "seed of the land" specifically represents Mattaniah, who was the uncle of King Jehoiachin. Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, appointed Mattaniah as the new king of Judah after deporting Jehoiachin and many prominent citizens to Babylon following the first siege of Jerusalem in 597 BC. Nebuchadnezzar renamed Mattaniah to Zedekiah (as detailed in [2 Kings 24:17](/2_kings/24-17 "2 Kings 24:17 - Zedekiah Appointed King")). The "willow tree" is a metaphor for Zedekiah's kingdom, symbolizing its intended nature: a kingdom that would flourish and grow, but only if it remained completely dependent upon and subservient to the "great waters" of Babylonian power and authority. This imagery highlights the vassal relationship and the expectation of loyalty from Judah to Babylon.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 17:5, while detailing a historical moment of political maneuvering and judgment, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in profound ways. The "seed of the land" that was planted and expected to flourish under a foreign power ultimately failed due to disloyalty. This earthly "seed" foreshadows the true and righteous "Branch" or "Seed" who would come from the root of Jesse, Jesus Christ (cf. [Isaiah 11:1](/isaiah/11-1 "Isaiah 11:1 - The Branch from Jesse")). Unlike Zedekiah, who sought alliances with other earthly powers, Jesus perfectly embodied absolute dependence on God the Father, stating, "I can do nothing on my own" ([John 5:19](/john/5-19 "John 5:19 - Jesus Does What the Father Does")). He is the true King, not established by human decree or dependent on "great waters" of worldly power, but rooted in the eternal power of God (cf. [Hebrews 7:16](/hebrews/7-16 "Hebrews 7:16 - Power of an Indestructible Life")). The "fruitful field" and "great waters" that were meant to sustain Zedekiah's fragile kingdom find their spiritual reality in Christ, who is the true source of living water ([John 4:14](/john/4-14 "John 4:14 - Living Water")) and the one who plants His people in fertile ground, causing them to bear much fruit through the Holy Spirit (cf. [John 15:5](/john/15-5 "John 15:5 - I Am the Vine, You Are the Branches")). The temporary, dependent kingdom of Zedekiah points to the eternal, unshakable kingdom established by Christ, which will never be destroyed or given to another people (cf. [Daniel 2:44](/daniel/2-44 "Daniel 2:44 - God's Kingdom Will Never Be Destroyed")). Thus, while Ezekiel 17:5 speaks of a failed human attempt at stability, it ultimately magnifies the perfect sovereignty and enduring reign of Christ, the true King and the source of all true life and flourishing.

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.

Cross-References

Isaiah 44:4

And they shall spring up [as] among the grass, as willows by the water courses.

Deuteronomy 8:7

For the LORD thy God bringeth thee into a good land, a land of brooks of water, of fountains and depths that spring out of valleys and hills;

Deuteronomy 8:9

A land wherein thou shalt eat bread without scarceness, thou shalt not lack any [thing] in it; a land whose stones [are] iron, and out of whose hills thou mayest dig brass.

Ezekiel 17:13

And hath taken of the king's seed, and made a covenant with him, and hath taken an oath of him: he hath also taken the mighty of the land:

2 Kings 24:17

And the king of Babylon made Mattaniah his father's brother king in his stead, and changed his name to Zedekiah.

Isaiah 15:7

Therefore the abundance they have gotten, and that which they have laid up, shall they carry away to the brook of the willows.

Ezekiel 19:11

And she had strong rods for the sceptres of them that bare rule, and her stature was exalted among the thick branches, and she appeared in her height with the multitude of her branches.