30:6 30:6

Ezekiel 30:7

30:8 30:8

Bible Versions

And they shall be desolate in the midst of the countries [that are] desolate, and her cities shall be in the midst of the cities [that are] wasted.
And they shall be desolate {H8074} in the midst {H8432} of the countries {H776} that are desolate {H8074}, and her cities {H5892} shall be in the midst {H8432} of the cities {H5892} that are wasted {H2717}.
"They will be desolate even when compared with other desolate countries, likewise her cities in comparison with other ruined cities.
They will be desolate among desolate lands, and their cities will lie among ruined cities.
And they shall be desolate in the midst of the countries that are desolate; and her cities shall be in the midst of the cities that are wasted.

Ezekiel 30:7 is a stark declaration of the severe judgment awaiting Egypt, emphasizing the complete and utter desolation that will befall the nation. This verse paints a vivid picture of a once-proud civilization brought low, mirroring the ruin of other nations that have incurred God's wrath.

Historical and Cultural Context

This verse is part of a series of prophecies in Ezekiel (chapters 29-32) specifically directed against Egypt and its Pharaoh. At the time of this prophecy (early 6th century BC), Egypt was a significant regional power, often sought as an unreliable ally by Judah against the rising Babylonian empire. God's judgment on Egypt was a demonstration of His sovereignty over all nations, including those considered powerful. The prophecy here foretells the devastation of Egypt by Nebuchadnezzar, King of Babylon, who was God's chosen instrument of judgment, as seen in Ezekiel 29:19-20.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Judgment: The verse underscores God's absolute authority to bring judgment upon nations for their pride, idolatry, and opposition to His will. Egypt's desolation serves as a powerful testament to the consequences of defying the Almighty.
  • Total Desolation: The repetition of "desolate" and "wasted" highlights the comprehensive nature of the destruction. Egypt would not merely suffer a setback but would be utterly laid waste, its cities ruined and its land empty, much like other lands that had faced divine wrath.
  • Shared Fate: Egypt, despite its perceived strength, would not be exempt from the patterns of judgment seen elsewhere. It would join the ranks of "countries that are desolate," indicating a universal principle of divine justice.
  • Prophetic Fulfillment: This prophecy, like many in Ezekiel, found historical fulfillment, demonstrating the reliability and truthfulness of God's word.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "desolate" is shamem (שָׁמֵם), which conveys a sense of being astonished, appalled, or laid waste. It speaks to an utter emptiness and ruin. The word "wasted" is from charev (חָרֵב), meaning to be dry, ruined, or annihilated. The use of these two potent words together emphasizes the profound and irreversible nature of the destruction God declared upon Egypt, signifying a complete loss of life and prosperity.

Practical Application

Ezekiel 30:7 serves as a timeless reminder that God is sovereign over all earthly powers. No nation, however mighty, can escape His righteous judgment if it persists in pride, idolatry, or stands against His purposes. For believers, this verse reinforces the importance of putting our trust in God alone, rather than in worldly alliances or strength. It also encourages us to consider the ultimate consequences of rebellion against God, urging repentance and reliance on His divine mercy, which is offered through faith in Jesus Christ.

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 29:12

    And I will make the land of Egypt desolate in the midst of the countries [that are] desolate, and her cities among the cities [that are] laid waste shall be desolate forty years: and I will scatter the Egyptians among the nations, and will disperse them through the countries.
  • Jeremiah 25:18

    [To wit], Jerusalem, and the cities of Judah, and the kings thereof, and the princes thereof, to make them a desolation, an astonishment, an hissing, and a curse; as [it is] this day;
  • Jeremiah 25:26

    And all the kings of the north, far and near, one with another, and all the kingdoms of the world, which [are] upon the face of the earth: and the king of Sheshach shall drink after them.
  • Ezekiel 32:18

    Son of man, wail for the multitude of Egypt, and cast them down, [even] her, and the daughters of the famous nations, unto the nether parts of the earth, with them that go down into the pit.
  • Ezekiel 32:32

    For I have caused my terror in the land of the living: and he shall be laid in the midst of the uncircumcised with [them that are] slain with the sword, [even] Pharaoh and all his multitude, saith the Lord GOD.
  • Jeremiah 46:1

    ¶ The word of the LORD which came to Jeremiah the prophet against the Gentiles;
  • Jeremiah 46:28

    Fear thou not, O Jacob my servant, saith the LORD: for I [am] with thee; for I will make a full end of all the nations whither I have driven thee: but I will not make a full end of thee, but correct thee in measure; yet will I not leave thee wholly unpunished.
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