Ezekiel 30:22

KJV

Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I [am] against Pharaoh king of Egypt, and will break his arms, the strong, and that which was broken; and I will cause the sword to fall out of his hand.

KJV (with Strong's)

Therefore thus saith {H559} the Lord {H136} GOD {H3069}; Behold, I am against Pharaoh {H6547} king {H4428} of Egypt {H4714}, and will break {H7665} his arms {H2220}, the strong {H2389}, and that which was broken {H7665}; and I will cause the sword {H2719} to fall {H5307} out of his hand {H3027}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Therefore Adonai ELOHIM says this: 'I am against Pharaoh king of Egypt. I will break his arms, both the sound one and the broken one, and I will make the sword fall from his hand.

Berean Standard Bible

Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: Behold, I am against Pharaoh king of Egypt. I will break his arms, both the strong one and the one already broken, and will make the sword fall from his hand.

American Standard Version

Therefore thus saith the Lord Jehovah: Behold, I am against Pharaoh king of Egypt, and will break his arms, the strong arm, and that which was broken; and I will cause the sword to fall out of his hand.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 30:22 delivers a powerful divine indictment against Pharaoh, king of Egypt, declaring God's intent to decisively dismantle Egypt's military and political might. Through vivid metaphorical language, the Lord GOD announces His direct opposition to Pharaoh, vowing to "break his arms"—both his present strength and any potential for recovery—and to disarm him completely by causing the sword, the symbol of his power, to fall from his hand. This prophecy underscores God's absolute sovereignty over nations and His impending judgment upon Egypt for its pride and unreliability.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a series of prophecies against Egypt, spanning [Ezekiel chapters 29-32](/ezekiel/29 "Ezekiel's Prophecies Against Egypt"). These oracles detail God's judgment on Egypt, often personified by its king, Pharaoh, for its arrogance, its self-reliance, and its treacherous role as an unreliable ally to Israel. Specifically, [Ezekiel 30](/ezekiel/30 "Ezekiel 30 - The Day of the Lord Against Egypt") describes the "Day of the Lord" against Egypt, a time of widespread devastation and humiliation. Verse 22 immediately follows a declaration in [Ezekiel 30:21](/ezekiel/30-21 "Ezekiel 30:21 - Pharaoh's Broken Arm") that Pharaoh's arm has already been broken, but not bound up for healing. Verse 22 intensifies this by stating God's direct action to break *both* arms, ensuring no recovery, and to disarm him completely, setting the stage for the subsequent verses that describe the desolation of Egypt and the scattering of its people.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** At the time of Ezekiel's prophecy (early 6th century BCE), Egypt was a formidable regional power, though its influence was waning. It frequently served as a tempting but ultimately unreliable ally for Judah against the rising power of Babylon. Pharaoh Hophra (Apries) was the reigning king of Egypt during part of Ezekiel's ministry, known for his pride and attempts to assert Egyptian dominance. The "arms" of Pharaoh would have represented the strength of his army, particularly his infantry and chariotry, which were renowned in the ancient world. The "sword" was the quintessential symbol of military might and sovereign power. God's declaration to break these symbols was a direct challenge to Egypt's self-perception as an invincible force and a clear statement that its destiny was not in its own hands but in the hands of the sovereign Lord. Israel's historical tendency to rely on Egypt for protection, rather than trusting in God, as condemned in [Isaiah 30:1-7](/isaiah/30-1 "Isaiah 30:1-7 - Woe to Rebellious Children"), further highlights the significance of God's judgment against Egypt.
* **Key Themes:** The overarching theme in this verse and the surrounding chapters is **Divine Sovereignty and Judgment**. God asserts His absolute control over all nations and their rulers, demonstrating that even the most powerful human empires are subject to His will. This directly challenges the widespread ancient Near Eastern belief in the invincibility of great kings and their gods. Another prominent theme is the **Dismantling of Human Pride and Self-Reliance**. Pharaoh, a symbol of national arrogance and reliance on military strength, is depicted as being utterly stripped of his power, illustrating the futility of trusting in human might over divine power. The imagery of broken arms and a fallen sword powerfully conveys **Complete Incapacitation and Humiliation**, signifying not just defeat but a total loss of ability to act or defend. This prophecy also subtly highlights the **Unreliability of Earthly Alliances**, particularly for Israel, who repeatedly sought refuge in Egypt's strength instead of God's.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **arms (Hebrew, _zᵉrôwaʻ'_):** This word, derived from a root meaning "to stretch out," refers literally to the arm or foreleg. Figuratively, as used here, it powerfully represents strength, power, and military might. When God declares He will "break his arms," it signifies the complete shattering of Egypt's national and military capability, rendering it unable to act or defend itself. This is not merely a physical injury but a total incapacitation of its influence and dominion.
* **strong (Hebrew, _châzâq'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to be strong, firm, or bold," this adjective describes something that is mighty, powerful, or vehement. In the context of Pharaoh's arms, it refers to the existing, formidable military and political power of Egypt. The declaration to break "the strong" arm emphasizes that even Egypt's current, robust capabilities will be utterly crushed by divine intervention.
* **hand (Hebrew, _yâd'_):** A primitive word, "hand" is used with vast literal and figurative applications. Beyond its physical meaning, it frequently denotes power, means, direction, possession, and control. For the sword to fall out of Pharaoh's "hand" symbolizes not just disarmament but the complete loss of control, authority, and the ability to wield power. It signifies a profound state of helplessness and humiliation, as the instrument of his might is removed from his grasp.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I [am] against Pharaoh king of Egypt":** This opening clause establishes the divine authority and direct nature of the judgment. "The Lord GOD" (Adonai YHWH) emphasizes God's absolute sovereignty and covenant faithfulness. The declaration "I am against Pharaoh" signifies a direct, personal, and decisive confrontation between the Almighty God and the earthly ruler, setting the stage for the inevitable downfall of Egypt's power.
* **"and will break his arms, the strong, and that which was broken":** This is the core of the prophetic action. The "arms" symbolize military and political strength. God promises to break both the "strong" arm, representing Egypt's current, formidable power, and "that which was broken," which can be interpreted as either the arm already weakened (as mentioned in [Ezekiel 30:21](/ezekiel/30-21 "Ezekiel 30:21 - Pharaoh's Broken Arm")) or any potential for future recovery or previously diminished strength. This dual breaking signifies a comprehensive, irreversible destruction of Egypt's capacity to exert power or defend itself, ensuring no possibility of resurgence.
* **"and I will cause the sword to fall out of his hand":** This final clause vividly portrays the consequence of the broken arms. The "sword" is the ultimate symbol of military might, aggression, and sovereign authority. For it to "fall out of his hand" means Pharaoh is disarmed, humiliated, and rendered utterly powerless. It underscores his inability to fight, defend, or maintain control, signifying the complete dismantling of his military apparatus and the end of his effective reign.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 30:22 is rich in **Metaphor** and **Symbolism**, which are central to conveying its powerful message. Pharaoh's "arms" are a clear **metaphor** for Egypt's military and political strength, and their "breaking" symbolizes the complete incapacitation of that power. The "sword" is a potent **symbol** of military might, sovereignty, and the ability to wage war; its falling from Pharaoh's hand vividly symbolizes disarming, defeat, and profound humiliation. The phrase "the strong, and that which was broken" employs a form of **merism**, encompassing the entirety of Egypt's power—both its current might and any past or potential future strength—to emphasize the comprehensive nature of God's judgment. Furthermore, the entire declaration is an example of **Divine Anthropomorphism**, where God is described as directly acting upon Pharaoh (breaking arms, causing the sword to fall), emphasizing His personal and active involvement in human history and the affairs of nations.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly reinforces the biblical truth of God's absolute sovereignty over all earthly powers. No nation, no matter how mighty or self-assured, can withstand the judgment of the Lord GOD. Pharaoh, the embodiment of Egyptian pride and military might, serves as a stark example that human strength and strategic alliances are ultimately futile when they stand against God's purposes. The imagery of broken arms and a fallen sword speaks to the divine dismantling of human arrogance and self-reliance, demonstrating that true power resides only with the Creator. It also highlights God's justice, as He brings low those who oppress and who trust in their own might rather than acknowledging His supreme authority.

* [Psalm 33:10-11](/psalm/33-10 "Psalm 33:10-11 - The Lord Frustrates the Plans of Nations"): "The LORD frustrates the plans of the nations; he thwarts the purposes of the peoples. But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations."
* [Jeremiah 17:5](/jeremiah/17-5 "Jeremiah 17:5 - Curse on Trusting in Man"): "This is what the LORD says: 'Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who draws strength from mere flesh and whose heart turns away from the LORD.'"
* [Daniel 4:34-35](/daniel/4-34 "Daniel 4:34-35 - Nebuchadnezzar's Praise of God's Sovereignty"): "His dominion is an eternal dominion; his kingdom endures from generation to generation. All the peoples of the earth are regarded as nothing. He does as he pleases with the powers of heaven and the peoples of the earth. No one can hold back his hand or say to him: 'What have you done?'"

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 30:22 serves as a timeless reminder that all earthly power is temporary and ultimately subject to the will of the Almighty God. In a world often dominated by political maneuvering, military might, and economic prowess, this verse calls believers to place their trust not in the strength of nations or leaders, but in the unwavering sovereignty of the Lord. It challenges us to examine where our ultimate security lies—is it in human institutions, financial stability, or personal influence, or is it in the God who can break the arms of the mightiest empires with a word? This passage also offers profound comfort to those who feel oppressed or overwhelmed by powerful systems, assuring them that God sees injustice and will ultimately bring down those who defy His righteous standards and oppress His people. It encourages humility, reminding us that pride precedes a fall, and true strength is found in dependence on God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **Where do I tend to place my trust for security and stability in life—in human systems and strengths, or in God's sovereign power?**
* **How does the knowledge of God's ultimate control over nations and leaders impact my perspective on current global events?**
* **In what areas of my life might I be relying on my "strong arms" (my own abilities, resources, or pride) rather than surrendering to God's will?**

### FAQ
**Who is Pharaoh in this context, and why is God "against" him?**

Answer: In the book of Ezekiel, "Pharaoh" is a general title for the king of Egypt. While the specific Pharaoh during Ezekiel's ministry was Hophra (Apries), the prophecy often addresses Pharaoh as the personification of the entire nation of Egypt. God is "against" Pharaoh and Egypt primarily for their pride, their self-reliance on their own military strength, and their history of being an unreliable and deceitful ally to Israel. Egypt's broken promises and its tendency to draw Israel away from trusting Yahweh provoked God's righteous judgment, as seen throughout the prophetic books (e.g., [Isaiah 30:1-7](/isaiah/30-1 "Isaiah 30:1-7 - Woe to Rebellious Children") and [Jeremiah 37:5-10](/jeremiah/37-5 "Jeremiah 37:5-10 - Jeremiah's Prophecy Against Egypt")).

**What does "break his arms, the strong, and that which was broken" specifically mean?**

Answer: This vivid imagery signifies a complete and irreversible dismantling of Egypt's power. The "arms" are a metaphor for military and political strength. "The strong" refers to Egypt's current, formidable might, while "that which was broken" can be interpreted in a few ways: it could refer to the arm already weakened or injured (as mentioned in [Ezekiel 30:21](/ezekiel/30-21 "Ezekiel 30:21 - Pharaoh's Broken Arm")), or it could encompass any previously diminished power or potential for future recovery. The phrase effectively means that God will destroy *all* of Egypt's power, both its existing strength and any capacity it might have had to recover or rebuild. It ensures total incapacitation and humiliation, leaving no room for resurgence.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 30:22, with its declaration of God's judgment on earthly power, finds its ultimate fulfillment and spiritual depth in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the prophecy directly concerns the literal breaking of Pharaoh's power, it points to a greater reality: the triumph of God's kingdom over all opposing forces, both temporal and spiritual. Just as God disarmed Pharaoh, Christ, through His death and resurrection, "disarmed the powers and authorities" (see [Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")). The "arms" of Satan, sin, and death—the very forces that held humanity captive—were decisively broken at the cross. The "sword" of their dominion was caused to fall from their hand, rendering them powerless against those who are in Christ. Furthermore, this passage foreshadows the ultimate reign of Christ, who alone possesses all authority in heaven and on earth (cf. [Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - The Great Commission")). Earthly kings and empires, no matter how "strong," are temporary and will ultimately bow before the King of Kings (see [Revelation 19:16](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords")). Believers are called to trust not in the fleeting strength of human institutions or their own abilities, but in the invincible power of Christ, who has already overcome the world (cf. [John 16:33](/john/16-33 "John 16:33 - Christ Overcomes the World")). The breaking of Pharaoh's arms serves as a powerful testament to the truth that all earthly dominion is subordinate to the sovereign will of God, fully revealed and perfectly executed in His Son, Jesus Christ, who reigns eternally.

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

Psalms 37:17

For the arms of the wicked shall be broken: but the LORD upholdeth the righteous.

2 Kings 24:7

And the king of Egypt came not again any more out of his land: for the king of Babylon had taken from the river of Egypt unto the river Euphrates all that pertained to the king of Egypt.

Jeremiah 37:7

Thus saith the LORD, the God of Israel; Thus shall ye say to the king of Judah, that sent you unto me to enquire of me; Behold, Pharaoh's army, which is come forth to help you, shall return to Egypt into their own land.

Ezekiel 29:3

Speak, and say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I [am] against thee, Pharaoh king of Egypt, the great dragon that lieth in the midst of his rivers, which hath said, My river [is] mine own, and I have made [it] for myself.

Jeremiah 46:21

Also her hired men [are] in the midst of her like fatted bullocks; for they also are turned back, [and] are fled away together: they did not stand, because the day of their calamity was come upon them, [and] the time of their visitation.

Jeremiah 46:25

The LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, saith; Behold, I will punish the multitude of No, and Pharaoh, and Egypt, with their gods, and their kings; even Pharaoh, and [all] them that trust in him:

Jeremiah 46:1

¶ The word of the LORD which came to Jeremiah the prophet against the Gentiles;