Ezekiel 31:14

KJV

To the end that none of all the trees by the waters exalt themselves for their height, neither shoot up their top among the thick boughs, neither their trees stand up in their height, all that drink water: for they are all delivered unto death, to the nether parts of the earth, in the midst of the children of men, with them that go down to the pit.

KJV (with Strong's)

To the end that none of all the trees {H6086} by the waters {H4325} exalt {H1361} themselves for their height {H6967}, neither shoot up {H5414} their top {H6788} among the thick boughs {H5688}, neither their trees {H352} stand up {H5975} in their height {H1363}, all that drink {H8354} water {H4325}: for they are all delivered {H5414} unto death {H4194}, to the nether parts {H8482} of the earth {H776}, in the midst {H8432} of the children {H1121} of men {H120}, with them that go down {H3381} to the pit {H953}.

Complete Jewish Bible

This is to warn all the trees growing near water not to grow so tall, not to lift their crowns above the leafy boughs, and all that take up water not to reach up in their height. For they are all given over to death, to the depths of the underworld, along with human beings, with those who descend to the pit.'

Berean Standard Bible

This happened so that no other trees by the waters would become great in height and set their tops among the clouds, and no other well-watered trees would reach them in height. For they have all been consigned to death, to the depths of the earth, among the mortals who descend to the Pit.’

American Standard Version

to the end that none of all the trees by the waters exalt themselves in their stature, neither set their top among the thick boughs, nor that their mighty ones stand up in their height, even all that drink water: for they are all delivered unto death, to the nether parts of the earth, in the midst of the children of men, with them that go down to the pit.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 31:14 serves as the profound moral of a vivid parable, delivered by God through the prophet Ezekiel to Pharaoh, king of Egypt. It encapsulates the universal truth that all earthly powers, no matter how magnificent or seemingly invincible, are destined for judgment and death if they succumb to pride and self-exaltation. The verse underscores that God's judgment on the proud Assyrian empire, likened to a towering cedar, was a deliberate act to humble all other nations, including Egypt, preventing them from similarly exalting themselves above divine sovereignty, for all are ultimately subject to the grave.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezekiel 31 is part of a series of prophecies against foreign nations, specifically targeting Egypt. The chapter employs an elaborate **allegory** where Assyria, a recently fallen superpower, is depicted as a majestic cedar tree in Lebanon, unparalleled in its height and beauty, symbolizing its immense power and influence. This tree, however, grew proud of its stature, overshadowing all other "trees" (representing other nations). God, in His sovereign judgment, allowed this magnificent tree to be cut down and cast into Sheol, the realm of the dead, among the uncircumcised and those who "go down to the pit." Verse 14 functions as the explicit theological conclusion and warning derived from this parable, directly addressing Egypt's potential for similar hubris. It clarifies that Assyria's downfall was a divine object lesson, intended to prevent other nations, particularly Egypt, from succumbing to the same destructive pride. The preceding verses (Ezekiel 31:10-13) detail the cedar's rise and fall, setting the stage for this concluding moral.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy in Ezekiel 31 was delivered around 587 BC, a pivotal time when the Babylonian Empire was ascendant, having already conquered Assyria and preparing to besiege Jerusalem. Egypt, though still a significant power, was also a contender for regional dominance and often sought to influence Judah. The imagery of "cedars of Lebanon" was deeply significant in the ancient Near East, symbolizing strength, majesty, and royal power. Kings often boasted of their cedar constructions, associating themselves with this noble tree (e.g., Solomon's temple and palace utilized cedars extensively). The "waters" from which these trees drew sustenance represent the prosperity, resources, and strategic advantages that allowed nations to flourish. The fall of Assyria, once the dominant empire, served as a stark, recent historical precedent for the transient nature of earthly power. Ezekiel's message to Pharaoh was a direct challenge to Egypt's pride and a warning against trusting in its own might rather than acknowledging God's ultimate sovereignty, a theme also explored in prophecies against Egypt in [Ezekiel 29](/ezekiel/29 "Ezekiel 29 - Prophecy Against Egypt").
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Ezekiel and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it emphasizes **Divine Judgment on Pride**. The downfall of the "great tree" (Assyria) serves as a potent example that no earthly power, no matter how grand or deeply rooted, can stand against the Lord when it becomes filled with arrogance and self-exaltation. This resonates deeply with the principle that [pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Precedes Destruction"). Secondly, it highlights the **Sovereignty of God over Nations**. The passage unequivocally declares that God is the ultimate ruler over all earthly kingdoms, raising up and bringing down nations according to His divine will. No human entity can truly exalt itself above Him, for He is the one who determines their fate. Finally, the verse underscores the **Mortality and Universality of Death**. The phrase "for they are all delivered unto death, to the nether parts of the earth, in the midst of the children of men, with them that go down to the pit" emphasizes the inescapable fate of all mortals, regardless of their earthly power or stature. Even the most formidable kings and empires are subject to death, a leveling agent that strips away all earthly glory and brings them to the common grave, echoing the sentiment found in [Isaiah 40:6-7](/isaiah/40-6 "Isaiah 40:6-7 - The Fleeting Nature of Humanity") that "all flesh is grass, and all its beauty is like the flower of the field."

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **trees (Hebrew, _ʻêts'_):** This word (H6086) primarily refers to a "tree" (from its firmness) or "wood." In Ezekiel 31, it is used symbolically to represent nations and their rulers. The "trees by the waters" symbolize nations that are well-resourced and flourishing, often due to their geographical advantages or military strength. The use of "trees" throughout the chapter personifies these nations, allowing the allegory to vividly portray their growth, pride, and eventual demise.
* **exalt (Hebrew, _gâbahh'_):** This verb (H1361) means "to soar," "be lofty," or figuratively, "to be haughty." It conveys the idea of rising to a great height, but more importantly, it carries the negative connotation of arrogance, pride, and self-exaltation. In this context, it describes the sinful ambition of nations or rulers who, due to their power and prosperity, lift themselves up in defiance of God's sovereignty, believing themselves to be unchallengeable.
* **pit (Hebrew, _bôwr'_):** This noun (H953) refers to a "pit hole," often a cistern or a prison. In a metaphorical and theological sense, as used here, it signifies the grave or Sheol, the realm of the dead. It represents a place of darkness, decay, and finality, where all earthly glory and power are stripped away. Its inclusion emphasizes the ultimate and universal fate awaiting all who exalt themselves, regardless of their earthly stature.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"To the end that none of all the trees by the waters exalt themselves for their height":** This opening clause states the divine purpose behind the judgment of Assyria. God's action is not arbitrary but pedagogical. The "trees by the waters" represent all nations that have flourished and grown powerful, drawing their strength from abundant resources. The phrase "exalt themselves for their height" speaks to the pride and arrogance that often accompany power and prosperity, where nations attribute their success to their own might rather than to divine providence. The judgment serves as a deterrent against such hubris.
* **"neither shoot up their top among the thick boughs, neither their trees stand up in their height, all that drink water":** This continues to elaborate on the nature of the forbidden self-exaltation. "Shoot up their top among the thick boughs" signifies a desire for preeminence and dominance over others, to overshadow and suppress rival nations. The repetition of "neither their trees stand up in their height" reinforces the idea of an excessive, ungodly pride in one's stature. The phrase "all that drink water" broadens the application to include every nation that has enjoyed prosperity and strength, making the warning universally applicable to all who are sustained and nourished by the world's resources.
* **"for they are all delivered unto death, to the nether parts of the earth, in the midst of the children of men, with them that go down to the pit":** This final clause provides the inescapable reason and consequence for the divine judgment. It declares the universal mortality of all earthly powers. "Delivered unto death" signifies a divinely ordained fate. "Nether parts of the earth" and "go down to the pit" are euphemisms for Sheol (Hades), the common grave where all humanity, regardless of status, eventually descends. The phrase "in the midst of the children of men" (H1121, _bên_, "son" + H120, _ʼâdâm_, "human being") emphasizes that even the mightiest rulers and nations are ultimately just "sons of men," subject to the same human limitations and the same ultimate fate as the common person. This underscores the leveling effect of death, stripping away all earthly distinctions.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 31:14 employs several powerful literary devices. The primary device is **Allegory**, where the entire chapter uses the imagery of a magnificent cedar tree to represent the Assyrian empire, with its felling symbolizing its downfall. This allegory is explicitly applied to Pharaoh and Egypt, making the moral universal. **Symbolism** is pervasive, with "trees by the waters" symbolizing flourishing nations, "height" representing power and pride, and "thick boughs" denoting dominance over others. The "pit" and "nether parts of the earth" are potent symbols for Sheol, the realm of the dead, emphasizing the finality of judgment. **Personification** is evident as the trees are described as "exalting themselves" and "shooting up their top," attributing human actions and motivations (pride, ambition) to inanimate objects (trees) and, by extension, to the nations they represent. The stark contrast between the initial "height" and the ultimate descent "to the pit" creates a powerful sense of **Irony** and serves as a dramatic warning against the fleeting nature of earthly glory when confronted with divine judgment.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 31:14 stands as a profound theological statement on divine sovereignty, human pride, and the inevitability of death. It asserts that God is the ultimate arbiter of the destiny of nations, actively intervening to humble the arrogant and uphold His supreme authority. The verse teaches that earthly power, wealth, and influence, when not properly stewarded or when they lead to self-exaltation, become a snare and a catalyst for divine judgment. The universal descent "to the pit" serves as a stark reminder that all human glory is transient and that death is the great equalizer, stripping away all earthly distinctions and revealing the commonality of humanity before God. This truth calls for humility, a recognition of God's absolute dominion, and a proper perspective on the fleeting nature of temporal achievements.

* [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Precedes Destruction")
* [James 4:6](/james/4-6 "James 4:6 - God Opposes the Proud")
* [Psalm 49:10-12](/psalm/49-10 "Psalm 49:10-12 - The Mortality of All People")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 31:14 offers a timeless and sobering reflection for both individuals and nations. In a world that often celebrates self-made success and encourages the pursuit of power and recognition, this verse serves as a crucial counter-narrative. It reminds us that true strength and lasting significance do not come from human achievements or earthly stature, but from a humble acknowledgment of God's ultimate sovereignty. Whether we are individuals striving for personal success or leaders guiding organizations and nations, the temptation to "exalt ourselves for our height" is ever-present. This passage calls us to cultivate a spirit of humility, recognizing that all blessings, talents, and opportunities are gifts from God. It warns against the dangers of pride, which blinds us to our dependence on the Creator and inevitably leads to a fall. Instead, our focus should be on living in accordance with God's will, understanding that our earthly lives, no matter how grand, are temporary, and our ultimate destination is a common one.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life do I tend to "exalt myself" or take undue pride in my achievements or status?**
* **How does the universal reality of death, as described in this verse, reorient my priorities and perspective on earthly pursuits?**
* **What practical steps can I take to cultivate greater humility and acknowledge God's sovereignty in my daily life?**
* **How can this warning against national pride inform my prayers and actions regarding the leaders and nations of the world today?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of the "trees by the waters" imagery in Ezekiel 31?**

Answer: The "trees by the waters" symbolize nations or rulers that are prosperous, powerful, and well-resourced. In the ancient Near East, access to water was crucial for life and flourishing, so trees growing by abundant water sources would naturally be robust and tall. This imagery conveys the idea of nations that have achieved great strength and influence due to their strategic advantages, fertile lands, or economic prosperity. The warning in Ezekiel 31:14 is directed at all such flourishing entities, cautioning them not to let their success lead to pride and self-exaltation, as even the most well-nourished "tree" is subject to God's judgment and the common fate of death. The parable of the cedar in [Ezekiel 31:3-9](/ezekiel/31-3 "Ezekiel 31:3-9 - The Majesty of the Cedar") vividly describes the growth and beauty of such a tree.

**Does this prophecy mean that God always punishes powerful nations with destruction?**

Answer: Not necessarily with immediate or complete destruction, but it does mean that God consistently opposes and judges national or individual pride and self-exaltation. Ezekiel 31:14 highlights a principle of divine justice: when nations become arrogant and forget their dependence on God, they invite His judgment. While the specific outcome for Assyria was destruction, the purpose of the warning to Egypt (and by extension, all nations) is to prevent such a fate by fostering humility. God's ultimate desire is for nations to acknowledge His sovereignty and live righteously, as seen in His calls for repentance throughout the prophetic books. The Lord is sovereign over all kingdoms, as [Daniel 2:21](/daniel/2-21 "Daniel 2:21 - God Changes Times and Seasons") affirms, "He changes times and seasons; he removes kings and sets up kings."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 31:14, with its stark warning against pride and its declaration of universal mortality, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the profound humility and exalting of Jesus Christ. While the "trees" of the world strive to "exalt themselves for their height," Christ, who is God incarnate, did the exact opposite. As Philippians 2:5-8 beautifully describes, Jesus, "though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross" ([Philippians 2:6-8](/philippians/2-6 "Philippians 2:6-8 - Christ's Humility")). He did not seek to "shoot up his top among the thick boughs" of earthly power but descended to the "nether parts of the earth," not as a victim of pride, but as a willing sacrifice to conquer the very "death" that consumes all proud human endeavors. His descent into death, and subsequent resurrection, demonstrates God's ultimate triumph over the "pit" (Sheol) and its power, a victory that no proud king or empire could ever achieve. Through His humility and sacrifice, Jesus became the one "delivered unto death" not for His own pride, but to deliver humanity from the power of death and the judgment that pride incurs, offering eternal life to all who believe in Him ([Hebrews 2:14-15](/hebrews/2-14 "Hebrews 2:14-15 - Christ's Victory Over Death")). He is the true and everlasting "tree of life," whose branches offer healing and sustenance, not the fleeting glory of earthly power ([Revelation 22:2](/revelation/22-2 "Revelation 22:2 - The Tree of Life")).

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 63:9

But those [that] seek my soul, to destroy [it], shall go into the lower parts of the earth.

Psalms 63:10

They shall fall by the sword: they shall be a portion for foxes.

2 Peter 2:6

And turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha into ashes condemned [them] with an overthrow, making [them] an ensample unto those that after should live ungodly;

Nehemiah 13:18

Did not your fathers thus, and did not our God bring all this evil upon us, and upon this city? yet ye bring more wrath upon Israel by profaning the sabbath.

Ezekiel 26:20

When I shall bring thee down with them that descend into the pit, with the people of old time, and shall set thee in the low parts of the earth, in places desolate of old, with them that go down to the pit, that thou be not inhabited; and I shall set glory in the land of the living;

Psalms 82:7

But ye shall die like men, and fall like one of the princes.

1 Corinthians 10:11

Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.