Ezekiel 29:4

KJV

But I will put hooks in thy jaws, and I will cause the fish of thy rivers to stick unto thy scales, and I will bring thee up out of the midst of thy rivers, and all the fish of thy rivers shall stick unto thy scales.

KJV (with Strong's)

But I will put {H5414} hooks {H2397}{H2397} in thy jaws {H3895}, and I will cause the fish {H1710} of thy rivers {H2975} to stick {H1692} unto thy scales {H7193}, and I will bring thee up {H5927} out of the midst {H8432} of thy rivers {H2975}, and all the fish {H1710} of thy rivers {H2975} shall stick {H1692} unto thy scales {H7193}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But I will put hooks in your jaws and make your Nile fish stick to your scales. Yes, I will bring you up from your Nile, with all your Nile fish sticking to your scales,

Berean Standard Bible

But I will put hooks in your jaws and cause the fish of your streams to cling to your scales. I will haul you up out of your rivers, and all the fish of your streams will cling to your scales.

American Standard Version

And I will put hooks in thy jaws, and I will cause the fish of thy rivers to stick unto thy scales; and I will bring thee up out of the midst of thy rivers, with all the fish of thy rivers which stick unto thy scales.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 29:4 presents a powerful prophetic declaration from the Lord God against Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, portraying him as a colossal aquatic beast that Yahweh will decisively capture and remove from his domain. This vivid imagery underscores God's absolute and sovereign control over even the most formidable earthly powers, demonstrating His unmatched ability to humble the proud, dismantle their perceived sources of strength, and bring them into judgment along with all who cling to them.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a crucial component of a series of divine oracles delivered by the prophet Ezekiel specifically targeting the nation of Egypt and its reigning monarch, Pharaoh (see [Ezekiel 29:1-16](/ezekiel/29-1-16 "Ezekiel 29:1-16 - Prophecy Against Pharaoh and Egypt")). It immediately follows the striking metaphorical depiction in [Ezekiel 29:3](/ezekiel/29-3 "Ezekiel 29:3 - Pharaoh as a Great Dragon"), where Pharaoh is described as a "great dragon" or "monster" (Hebrew: *tannin*) lying arrogantly in the midst of his rivers, boasting of his self-sufficiency and claiming ownership of the life-giving Nile. The subsequent verses in this chapter detail the severe desolation that will befall Egypt, followed by its eventual, albeit humble, restoration as a "lowly kingdom" that will no longer serve as a deceptive source of hope or reliance for the nation of Israel. This particular oracle is situated within a broader collection of prophecies against foreign nations found in [Ezekiel 25-32](/ezekiel/25 "Ezekiel 25-32 - Oracles Against the Nations"), which collectively serve to powerfully assert Yahweh's universal dominion and His role as the sovereign judge over all earthly powers.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy recorded in [Ezekiel 29](/ezekiel/29 "Ezekiel 29 - Prophecy Against Egypt") is precisely dated to the tenth year of King Zedekiah's exile, placing its delivery around 587-586 BC. This was a profoundly critical period in Judah's history, immediately preceding the final, devastating destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonian empire. Pharaoh Hophra (also known as Apries), the reigning Egyptian monarch at this time, was a powerful ruler who had attempted to intervene in Judah's conflict with Babylon, offering a deceptive sense of security and military assistance to King Zedekiah, an intervention that ultimately proved futile and counterproductive, as documented in [Jeremiah 37:7](/jeremiah/37-7 "Jeremiah 37:7 - Jeremiah's Prophecy Against Pharaoh's Army"). Egypt, with its unparalleled wealth and agricultural abundance sustained by the mighty Nile River, was widely perceived as an unassailable bastion of strength and prosperity. The formidable crocodile (*tannin*), a dominant and fearsome creature inhabiting the Nile, served as a potent symbol of Egypt's power and Pharaoh's authority. The imagery of placing "hooks in thy jaws" would have resonated with profound impact upon an ancient audience, who were intimately familiar with the techniques used to control large, powerful animals or to capture fish, thereby powerfully emphasizing God's complete, humiliating, and inescapable control over even the mightiest of kings and nations.

* **Key Themes:** A central and overarching theme in this verse is **Divine Sovereignty and Judgment**, which unequivocally asserts that God, not Pharaoh or any other earthly power, is the ultimate and unchallenged ruler of history and nations. The Lord's emphatic declaration, "I will put hooks in thy jaws," serves as a potent illustration of His undisputed authority to humble the proud, bring down seemingly impregnable empires that defy Him, and execute His righteous judgment, a truth consistently affirmed throughout the book of Ezekiel and other prophetic literature (e.g., [Psalm 33:10](/psalms/33-10 "Psalm 33:10 - God Frustrates the Counsel of Nations")). Another significant theme is the **Downfall of Pride**, as Pharaoh's arrogant self-exaltation and his blasphemous claim of self-creation are met with God's decisive and humiliating intervention, forcibly removing him from his perceived source of strength and dominion. Finally, the stark imagery of "all the fish of thy rivers shall stick unto thy scales" vividly highlights the **Consequences for Allies and Dependents**, signifying that those who rely upon, align with, or are associated with a condemned power will inevitably share in its judgment and precipitous downfall, utterly unable to detach themselves or escape the divine reckoning that awaits.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **hooks (Hebrew, _châch'_):** From H2397, meaning "a ring for the nose (or lips); bracelet, chain, hook." In this prophetic context, "hooks" refers to a powerful device used to control or capture large, formidable animals, akin to a massive fish hook or a nose ring employed to subdue a wild beast. Its application here profoundly emphasizes God's absolute power to lead, manipulate, and ultimately subdue Pharaoh, treating him as a mere animal to be forcibly dragged out of his self-proclaimed domain. This imagery conveys a sense of inescapable capture and humiliation.
* **stick (Hebrew, _dâbaq'_):** From H1692, a primitive root meaning "to impinge, i.e. cling or adhere; figuratively, to catch by pursuit; abide fast, cleave (fast together), follow close (hard after), be joined (together), keep (fast), overtake, pursue hard, stick, take." This verb powerfully describes the inseparable and tenacious attachment of Egypt's allies, subjects, and dependencies to Pharaoh. It vividly portrays their shared, unavoidable fate in his impending downfall, indicating that they will cling to him even in defeat, unable to separate themselves from his ruin.
* **scales (Hebrew, _qasqeseth'_):** From H7193, meaning "a scale (of a fish); hence a coat of mail (as composed of or covered with jointed plates of metal); mail, scale." This term reinforces the central metaphor of Pharaoh as a great fish or crocodile, whose protective, armored covering paradoxically becomes the very means by which his dependents cling as he is dragged to judgment. It simultaneously suggests his reptilian, monstrous nature and his armored, seemingly invulnerable strength, which ultimately proves futile against divine power.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But I will put hooks in thy jaws":** This opening declaration immediately establishes God's direct, active, and forceful intervention against Pharaoh. The "hooks" are a potent symbol of absolute control, humiliation, and inescapable capture. Pharaoh, who arrogantly perceived himself as an untamable, self-sufficient deity, is here reduced to the status of a captured beast, utterly at the mercy of the divine Fisherman. His "jaws," typically a symbol of power, aggression, and the ability to devour, are rendered completely impotent and controlled by God's direct and decisive action.
* **"and I will cause the fish of thy rivers to stick unto thy scales":** This vivid imagery expands the scope of divine judgment beyond Pharaoh alone to encompass his entire domain and all who depend on him. The "fish of thy rivers" represent the people, the various allied nations, and all dependencies of Egypt. Their "sticking unto thy scales" powerfully signifies their inescapable and tenacious attachment to Pharaoh's fate, portraying a collective downfall where they are dragged out of their perceived security along with their leader, utterly unable to detach themselves or escape the impending divine judgment.
* **"and I will bring thee up out of the midst of thy rivers":** This clause describes the physical act of removal, exposure, and ultimate disempowerment. The "rivers" (specifically the Nile) symbolize the very source of Egypt's power, wealth, perceived security, and Pharaoh's pride. To be "brought up out" means to be forcibly and humiliatingly removed from this place of strength and comfort, exposed to vulnerability, shame, and judgment. This signifies the complete dismantling of Egypt's influence, the end of its self-proclaimed dominion, and its public disgrace.
* **"and all the fish of thy rivers shall stick unto thy scales":** This phrase serves as a powerful and emphatic repetition, underscoring the certainty, totality, and comprehensive nature of the collective judgment. The reiteration forcefully impresses upon the audience that not only will Pharaoh himself be brought low in a humiliating manner, but all those who relied upon him, were part of his system, or were associated with his power will inevitably share in his ignominious defeat, clinging to him even as he is dragged to his ruin.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 29:4 is profoundly rich in **Metaphor** and **Symbolism**. Pharaoh is metaphorically depicted as a colossal aquatic creature, a "great dragon" or "monster" (from the preceding verse, implicitly extended here), and this verse elaborates on the metaphor by portraying him as a massive fish or crocodile. The "hooks in thy jaws" function as a potent metaphor for God's absolute and inescapable control, signifying the humiliating subjugation of Pharaoh. The "rivers" (primarily the Nile) are deeply **Symbolic** of Egypt's lifeblood, its immense wealth, its political power, and the very foundation of Pharaoh's arrogant pride. The "fish of thy rivers" symbolize the diverse populace, the allied nations, and all the dependent territories associated with Egypt. The "scales" symbolize Pharaoh's protective strength and formidable defenses, which paradoxically become the very means by which his followers are drawn into his judgment. The emphatic **Repetition** of "and all the fish of thy rivers shall stick unto thy scales" at the conclusion of the verse serves to profoundly emphasize the certainty, inevitability, and comprehensive scope of the divine judgment, reinforcing the truth that the downfall of Pharaoh will inexorably entail the downfall of all who are inextricably connected to him. The vivid, almost grotesque imagery employed throughout the verse creates a powerful and visceral sense of divine power and the inescapable nature of God's righteous judgment.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse powerfully asserts the profound theological truth of God's absolute, unchallengeable, and universal sovereignty over all nations and their rulers. No earthly power, however mighty, self-sufficient, or seemingly invincible, stands outside the purview and ultimate control of the Almighty Yahweh. Pharaoh's audacious pride, which led him to boast of owning and even creating the Nile, is met with a divine demonstration that true power and dominion belong solely to the Lord. This passage serves as a stark and enduring reminder that human arrogance, self-exaltation, and defiance against God will inevitably be met with divine humbling and judgment. It highlights that God sovereignly uses even the most formidable empires as instruments for His overarching purposes, and when their pride or opposition to His divine will becomes too great, He brings them low, often in a humiliating and public manner, to reveal His glory and supremacy to all nations. The fate of Egypt's "fish" also underscores the crucial biblical principle of corporate solidarity in judgment; those who align themselves with powers opposed to God's righteous rule will inevitably share in their ultimate reckoning.

* [Isaiah 37:29](/isaiah/37-29 "Isaiah 37:29 - God's Control Over Assyria")
* [Psalm 74:13-14](/psalms/74-13-14 "Psalm 74:13-14 - God Crushing the Heads of the Dragon")
* [Job 41:1-2](/job/41-1-2 "Job 41:1-2 - Can You Draw Out Leviathan with a Hook?")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 29:4 offers profound and timeless lessons for contemporary believers navigating a world often dominated by powerful political figures, immense economic giants, and rapidly advancing technological innovations. This verse serves as a crucial reminder that no human institution, leader, or perceived source of strength is ultimately in control. God remains sovereign over all, possessing the undisputed power to humble the proud and dismantle even the seemingly unshakeable. This truth should cultivate a deep and abiding sense of humility within us, preventing us from placing our ultimate trust or security in fleeting earthly powers, our own self-sufficiency, or the strength of our nation. It calls us to soberly examine where our true security and hope ultimately reside: is it in our wealth, our influence, our nation's military might, or in the Almighty God who can effortlessly put "hooks in the jaws" of any perceived leviathan? Furthermore, this passage encourages us to faithfully pray for our leaders, recognizing that God can supernaturally turn their hearts and direct their paths according to His will. It also empowers us to stand firm in our faith, knowing with certainty that even in times of global upheaval, political instability, or societal unrest, God's eternal purposes will ultimately prevail.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **Where do I tend to place my ultimate trust and security: in human power, material resources, or God's absolute sovereignty?**
* **How does the vivid imagery of God putting "hooks in the jaws" of a powerful ruler challenge and reshape my understanding of control and authority in the world today?**
* **In what specific ways might I, like Pharaoh, exhibit pride, self-sufficiency, or an inflated sense of my own capabilities, and how can I cultivate greater humility and consistent dependence on God?**

### FAQ
**Who is the 'great dragon' mentioned in this prophecy?**

Answer: While not explicitly named as "dragon" in Ezekiel 29:4 itself, the preceding verse, [Ezekiel 29:3](/ezekiel/29-3 "Ezekiel 29:3 - Pharaoh as a Great Dragon"), clearly identifies Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, as the "great dragon" or "monster" (Hebrew: *tannin*). This powerful imagery likely refers to a crocodile, a dominant, fearsome, and awe-inspiring creature of the Nile River, symbolizing Pharaoh's immense political and military power, his self-proclaimed divinity, and his oppressive nature towards other nations, including Israel.

**What do the 'hooks in thy jaws' symbolize?**

Answer: The "hooks in thy jaws" symbolize God's absolute, inescapable, and profoundly humiliating control over Pharaoh. Just as a fisherman uses a hook to capture, control, and pull in a large, powerful fish or crocodile, God declares His undisputed power to subdue, lead, and bring judgment upon Pharaoh and the entire nation of Egypt. This vivid imagery emphasizes that despite Pharaoh's perceived strength, arrogance, and self-sufficiency, he is utterly powerless before the divine will, destined to be dragged out of his domain against his will, exposed and disgraced.

**What does it mean for 'all the fish of thy rivers to stick unto thy scales'?**

Answer: This vivid and somewhat grotesque imagery signifies the complete, certain, and inescapable downfall of all those associated with or dependent upon Pharaoh and the nation of Egypt. The "fish of thy rivers" represent the people of Egypt, its various allied nations, and all the dependent territories that relied on Egypt's strength and protection. Their "sticking unto thy scales" means they are inextricably linked to Pharaoh's fate; as he is dragged to judgment and ruin, they too will be caught up in his demise, unable to detach themselves or escape the divine reckoning. It powerfully illustrates a principle of corporate judgment where the fate of the proud and defiant leader determines the fate of his followers and dependents.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 29:4, with its stark depiction of God's absolute sovereignty over a proud earthly king and his seemingly invincible kingdom, finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. While Pharaoh boasted of his power and self-sufficiency, Christ, though truly God, "emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Humility")). He did not cling to divine prerogatives or worldly power, but humbly submitted Himself to the Father's will, even to the ignominious death on a cross. Yet, it was precisely through His humble obedience and sacrificial death that Christ utterly defeated the true "dragon" – Satan and the spiritual powers of darkness – disarming them and triumphing over them decisively ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Principalities and Powers")). The "hooks in the jaws" of Pharaoh foreshadow the ultimate and universal control Christ exercises over all earthly and spiritual authorities. He is the true King of Kings and Lord of Lords, before whom every knee will ultimately bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth ([Philippians 2:10-11](/philippians/2-10-11 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow to Jesus")). Christ will ultimately judge all nations and rulers, bringing to completion the divine sovereignty proclaimed in Ezekiel. His kingdom is not of this world, yet it will ultimately encompass and subdue all earthly powers, fulfilling the glorious promise that all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Him ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus")).

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

Ezekiel 38:4

And I will turn thee back, and put hooks into thy jaws, and I will bring thee forth, and all thine army, horses and horsemen, all of them clothed with all sorts [of armour, even] a great company [with] bucklers and shields, all of them handling swords:

2 Kings 19:28

Because thy rage against me and thy tumult is come up into mine ears, therefore I will put my hook in thy nose, and my bridle in thy lips, and I will turn thee back by the way by which thou camest.

Isaiah 37:29

Because thy rage against me, and thy tumult, is come up into mine ears, therefore will I put my hook in thy nose, and my bridle in thy lips, and I will turn thee back by the way by which thou camest.

Amos 4:2

The Lord GOD hath sworn by his holiness, that, lo, the days shall come upon you, that he will take you away with hooks, and your posterity with fishhooks.

Habakkuk 1:14

And makest men as the fishes of the sea, as the creeping things, [that have] no ruler over them?

Habakkuk 1:15

They take up all of them with the angle, they catch them in their net, and gather them in their drag: therefore they rejoice and are glad.

Job 41:1

¶ Canst thou draw out leviathan with an hook? or his tongue with a cord [which] thou lettest down?