Ezekiel 31:13

KJV

Upon his ruin shall all the fowls of the heaven remain, and all the beasts of the field shall be upon his branches:

KJV (with Strong's)

Upon his ruin {H4658} shall all the fowls {H5775} of the heaven {H8064} remain {H7931}, and all the beasts {H2416} of the field {H7704} shall be upon his branches {H6288}:

Complete Jewish Bible

All the birds will settle on his fallen trunk, and all the wild animals will be on his branches.

Berean Standard Bible

All the birds of the air nested on its fallen trunk, and all the beasts of the field lived among its boughs.

American Standard Version

Upon his ruin all the birds of the heavens shall dwell, and all the beasts of the field shall be upon his branches;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 31:13 presents a stark, post-judgment scene, vividly depicting the complete and irreversible desolation of a once-majestic cedar, symbolic of a proud, self-exalting nation. This verse portrays the immediate aftermath of its catastrophic fall, where its ruin becomes a grim spectacle, attracting scavengers—the fowls of the heaven and beasts of the field—who settle upon its fallen trunk and branches. This imagery powerfully communicates utter abandonment, decay, and the profound finality of God's judgment upon human arrogance and defiance.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezekiel 31 is a profound prophetic allegory, part of a series of oracles against Egypt (Ezekiel 29-32), emphasizing God's sovereign judgment over all earthly powers. The chapter opens with God's command to Ezekiel to lament over Pharaoh, King of Egypt, likening him to a magnificent cedar of Lebanon (Ezekiel 31:2-3). Verses 4-9 meticulously detail the cedar's unparalleled stature, beauty, and global influence, highlighting its immense pride and self-exaltation. Verses 10-12 then pivot to God's decisive judgment, declaring that because of its pride, the tree would be handed over to a "mighty one of the nations" (likely Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon) to be cut down, leading to the scattering of all who once found shelter under its boughs. Verse 13, therefore, serves as the immediate, grim consequence of this felling, illustrating the complete reversal of fortune and the desolation that follows the collapse of such a formidable, yet prideful, entity. It functions as a stark visual of the ultimate and irreversible end of self-exalted power, setting the stage for the cedar's descent into Sheol described in subsequent verses.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, cedars of Lebanon were highly prized for their immense size, durability, and aromatic wood, making them a natural and potent symbol for powerful empires and their rulers. Nations like Egypt and Assyria, with their vast armies and extensive reach, often saw themselves as supreme and unchallengeable, embodying a similar grandeur and perceived invincibility as these mighty trees. The imagery of birds and beasts gathering upon a carcass or a fallen tree was a common prophetic motif signifying utter desolation, divine judgment, and a complete lack of human presence or care. This was not merely a natural occurrence but a divinely ordained consequence, indicating that the land or entity was cursed and abandoned by God. The prophecy served as a direct and severe warning to Pharaoh, who, like the Assyrian king before him (implicitly referenced as the cedar's antecedent in Ezekiel 31:3), was prone to pride and self-deification, forgetting that all power ultimately derives from and is subject to the sovereign God of Israel.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Ezekiel and the broader prophetic literature. Primarily, it underscores **Divine Judgment and Desolation**, demonstrating the completeness and inevitability of God's wrath against pride and rebellion. The once-glorious cedar, a symbol of national might, is reduced to a decaying carcass, illustrating that no earthly power, however grand, is immune to God's reckoning. This resonates with the biblical principle that "[pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Goes Before Destruction")". Secondly, it highlights the **Fall of Mighty Powers**, serving as a sobering reminder of the impermanence of worldly glory and the swiftness with which God can bring down the proud. The imagery of scavengers feasting on the ruin is a recurring motif for severe judgment and abandonment, as seen in passages like [Jeremiah 7:33](/jeremiah/7-33 "Jeremiah 7:33 - Bodies as Food for Birds and Beasts"), where the bodies of the slain are consumed by birds and beasts. Finally, the verse speaks to the theme of **Reversal of Fortune**, where what once offered shelter and security now lies prostrate, becoming a mere perch for those who consume the dead, vividly portraying the dramatic consequences of forgetting God's ultimate sovereignty and the transient nature of all human achievements.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **ruin (Hebrew, _mappeleth'_):** From the root `naphal` (to fall), this term (H4658) literally means "a fall" or "that which is fallen." In this context, it concretely refers to a "ruin" or "carcass," emphasizing the state of decay, lifelessness, and utter destruction. It signifies not just a collapse, but the resulting heap of debris or a dead body, highlighting the complete devastation and loss of vitality of the once-mighty entity.
* **fowls (Hebrew, _ʻôwph'_):** This word (H5775) refers to "a bird" or "flying creature," often used collectively as "fowl." In prophetic imagery, birds of prey frequently symbolize scavengers that gather to consume the dead, representing desolation, divine judgment, and the abandonment of a place or people by human inhabitants. Their presence signifies a scene of death and decay, far from the life and vibrancy the cedar once embodied.
* **remain (Hebrew, _shâkan'_):** This primitive root (H7931) means "to reside or permanently stay" or "to dwell." The use of "remain" here is poignant. While the cedar once provided a dwelling for all creatures (Ezekiel 31:6), now, in its fallen state, it becomes a permanent dwelling or resting place for scavengers. It denotes a settled, enduring presence of these creatures, underscoring the finality and completeness of the desolation; there is no recovery, only a new, grim reality of decay and consumption.
* **branches (Hebrew, _pᵉʼôrâh'_):** This term (H6288) refers to "ornamentation" or, in this context, "foliage" or "limbs" of a tree, particularly the bright green, flourishing parts. The fact that the beasts are "upon his branches" highlights the complete reversal of function: what once provided beautiful shade and shelter now serves merely as a platform for scavengers, emphasizing the total degradation and loss of the tree's former glory and purpose.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Upon his ruin shall all the fowls of the heaven remain":** This clause immediately establishes the scene of utter desolation. The "ruin" (the fallen, decaying cedar) is the focal point, indicating the complete collapse and lifelessness of the once-proud entity. "All the fowls of the heaven" (birds, specifically scavengers) are depicted not just passing by, but "remaining" or dwelling upon it. This signifies a permanent state of abandonment and consumption, where what was once a majestic, life-giving structure is now a lifeless corpse, attracting those that feed on decay and death.
* **"and all the beasts of the field shall be upon his branches":** This second clause reinforces and amplifies the imagery of the first, adding another dimension to the scene of judgment. Not only aerial scavengers, but "all the beasts of the field" (wild animals, typically predators or scavengers) are also present, settling "upon his branches." The branches, which once offered shelter, beauty, and protection to other creatures, are now merely a platform for these creatures, further emphasizing the complete destruction and the transformation of a place of life into a scene of death and consumption. The dual presence of aerial and terrestrial scavengers underscores the totality of the judgment and the irreversible nature of the fall.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 31:13 is profoundly rich in **Imagery**, painting a vivid and disturbing picture of a once-magnificent tree reduced to a decaying carcass. The specific details of "fowls of the heaven" and "beasts of the field" settling on its "ruin" and "branches" evoke a strong sense of desolation, abandonment, and the grim aftermath of divine judgment. This imagery functions as powerful **Symbolism**, where the cedar represents a proud, self-exalting nation (specifically Egypt, but also echoing Assyria), and the scavenging animals symbolize the complete degradation, consumption, and irreversible loss of its former glory and power. The verse is an integral part of an extended **Allegory** that runs throughout Ezekiel 31, where the natural life cycle of a tree—its growth, pride, felling, and decay—mirrors the rise and fall of human empires under God's sovereign hand. The dramatic **Juxtaposition** between the cedar's former unparalleled glory (meticulously described in the preceding verses) and its current state of ruin amplifies the shock and finality of its downfall, underscoring the severe consequences of pride.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 31:13 serves as a profound theological statement on God's absolute sovereignty over all earthly powers and the inevitable consequences of human pride and self-exaltation. It underscores that no nation, however mighty, beautiful, or self-sufficient, can escape divine judgment when it exalts itself against the Creator. The imagery of the fallen cedar, consumed by scavengers, is a stark reminder that worldly glory is fleeting and that true security lies not in human strength, dominion, or accumulated achievements, but in humble submission to God. This passage aligns with the consistent biblical narrative that God "brings princes to nothing and makes the rulers of the earth as emptiness," ultimately revealing His supreme authority over all creation and human history. It is a powerful testament to the truth that God will not share His glory with another, and those who seek to usurp it will inevitably face His righteous reckoning.

* [Isaiah 14:12-15](/isaiah/14-12-15 "Isaiah 14:12-15 - The Fall of the Morning Star")
* [Daniel 4:20-27](/daniel/4-20-27 "Daniel 4:20-27 - Nebuchadnezzar's Dream and Humiliation")
* [Revelation 18:2](/revelation/18-2 "Revelation 18:2 - Babylon the Great Has Fallen")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 31:13 offers a timeless and sobering reflection on the impermanence of all earthly power and the ultimate futility of pride. For individuals and nations alike, it serves as a potent warning: self-exaltation inevitably leads to a fall, and what once seemed invincible can quickly become a desolate ruin. This verse calls us to cultivate profound humility, recognizing that all our strength, achievements, influence, and even our very existence are gifts from God, not grounds for arrogance or self-sufficiency. It compels us to shift our focus from building earthly empires—whether personal empires of wealth and status or national empires of dominion—that are destined to decay, to investing in eternal values and aligning our lives with God's righteous and enduring purposes. Understanding God's absolute sovereignty over all kingdoms provides both a deep comfort in times of oppression and a clarion call to repentance for those who might be tempted to trust in their own might or to forget their Creator. It reminds us that true flourishing comes not from towering over others, but from humbly abiding in the one true God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I be prone to pride or self-exaltation, similar to the cedar in this allegory, and how can I cultivate greater humility?**
* **How does the vivid imagery of the fowls and beasts on the ruin challenge my perception of worldly success, power, and the pursuit of earthly glory?**
* **What enduring "treasures" or "foundations" am I building my life upon, given the impermanence and ultimate decay of all earthly glory and human achievement?**
* **How can recognizing God's absolute and unchallengeable sovereignty over all nations and individuals impact my daily walk, my prayers for the world, and my trust in His ultimate plan?**

### FAQ
**Who does the "cedar" in Ezekiel 31 represent, and what is the significance of its fall?**

Answer: The magnificent cedar in Ezekiel 31 primarily represents Pharaoh, King of Egypt, and by extension, the nation of Egypt itself. However, the allegory is also implicitly linked to the Assyrian empire, which had previously dominated the region and fallen, serving as a cautionary tale for Egypt. The cedar's fall signifies the inevitable and complete judgment of God upon proud, self-exalting earthly powers. It illustrates that no nation, regardless of its strength, beauty, or influence, can stand against the sovereign will of God when it succumbs to arrogance and forgets its dependence on Him. The fall is not just a defeat but a total desolation, transforming a source of life and shelter into a scene of decay and abandonment, as vividly portrayed in [Ezekiel 31:13](/ezekiel/31-13 "Ezekiel 31:13 - The Desolation of the Fallen Cedar").

**What is the symbolic meaning of the "fowls of the heaven" and "beasts of the field" in this verse?**

Answer: The "fowls of the heaven" and "beasts of the field" in Ezekiel 31:13 are powerful symbols of desolation, divine judgment, and utter abandonment. In biblical prophecy, these creatures, particularly scavengers, gathering upon a fallen entity or a carcass, signify that the place or person has been cursed, is devoid of human presence, and is given over to decay and consumption. They are not there for shelter or life, but to consume the dead, emphasizing the complete and irreversible destruction of the once-mighty cedar (representing Egypt). This imagery is common in prophetic warnings of severe judgment, such as when the bodies of the slain become "[food for the birds of the air and for the beasts of the earth](/jeremiah/7-33 "Jeremiah 7:33 - Bodies as Food for Birds and Beasts")". Their presence underscores the finality of the judgment and the grim reality of the fallen empire, highlighting that what once offered life now only offers death.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Ezekiel 31:13 vividly portrays the desolation resulting from the fall of a proud earthly power, its Christ-centered fulfillment lies in the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom over all human arrogance and the establishment of an eternal reign through Jesus Christ. The "ruin" of the cedar foreshadows the dismantling of all human systems and powers that exalt themselves against God. Yet, unlike the permanent desolation depicted here, Christ's "fall" on the cross was not one of defeat but of ultimate victory, leading to the definitive "ruin" of sin, death, and the devil's dominion. He is the true and eternal "tree of life," not subject to decay or judgment, but offering everlasting life to all who come to Him. Where the cedar's branches became a place for scavengers, Christ invites all to abide in Him as the true Vine, bearing fruit for eternal life, as He declares in [John 15:5](/john/15-5 "John 15:5 - Jesus is the True Vine"). The judgment on prideful empires culminates in Christ's return, when He will finally put all enemies under His feet and establish a kingdom that will never be destroyed, a kingdom where there is no "ruin" but only everlasting glory and peace. This is powerfully anticipated in [Revelation 19:17-18](/revelation/19-17-18 "Revelation 19:17-18 - The Great Supper of God"), where the birds are invited to the great supper of God, feasting on the enemies of God, signifying Christ's ultimate triumph over all opposing forces. Thus, the desolation of the fallen cedar ultimately points to the necessity of Christ's perfect reign, which alone can bring true and lasting peace, replacing the transient and prideful kingdoms of this world with His eternal, unshakeable dominion.

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 32:4

Then will I leave thee upon the land, I will cast thee forth upon the open field, and will cause all the fowls of the heaven to remain upon thee, and I will fill the beasts of the whole earth with thee.

Ezekiel 29:5

And I will leave thee [thrown] into the wilderness, thee and all the fish of thy rivers: thou shalt fall upon the open fields; thou shalt not be brought together, nor gathered: I have given thee for meat to the beasts of the field and to the fowls of the heaven.

Isaiah 18:6

They shall be left together unto the fowls of the mountains, and to the beasts of the earth: and the fowls shall summer upon them, and all the beasts of the earth shall winter upon them.

Revelation 19:17

And I saw an angel standing in the sun; and he cried with a loud voice, saying to all the fowls that fly in the midst of heaven, Come and gather yourselves together unto the supper of the great God;

Revelation 19:18

That ye may eat the flesh of kings, and the flesh of captains, and the flesh of mighty men, and the flesh of horses, and of them that sit on them, and the flesh of all [men, both] free and bond, both small and great.