Ezekiel 31:16

KJV

I made the nations to shake at the sound of his fall, when I cast him down to hell with them that descend into the pit: and all the trees of Eden, the choice and best of Lebanon, all that drink water, shall be comforted in the nether parts of the earth.

KJV (with Strong's)

I made the nations {H1471} to shake {H7493} at the sound {H6963} of his fall {H4658}, when I cast him down {H3381} to hell {H7585} with them that descend {H3381} into the pit {H953}: and all the trees {H6086} of Eden {H5731}, the choice {H4005} and best {H2896} of Lebanon {H3844}, all that drink {H8354} water {H4325}, shall be comforted {H5162} in the nether parts {H8482} of the earth {H776}.

Complete Jewish Bible

At the sound of his fall I made the nations shake, when I hurled him down to Sh'ol with those who descend to the pit. All the trees of 'Eden, the pick of the best in the L'vanon, all that take up water, were consoled in the underworld.

Berean Standard Bible

I made the nations quake at the sound of its downfall, when I cast it down to Sheol with those who descend to the Pit. Then all the trees of Eden, the choicest and best of Lebanon, all the well-watered trees, were consoled in the earth below.

American Standard Version

I made the nations to shake at the sound of his fall, when I cast him down to Sheol with them that descend into the pit; and all the trees of Eden, the choice and best of Lebanon, all that drink water, were comforted in the nether parts of the earth.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 31:16 concludes a powerful prophetic lament against Pharaoh, king of Egypt, likening him to a magnificent, proud cedar of Lebanon that God has brought low. This verse vividly portrays the cosmic impact of Egypt's downfall, describing how other nations and even the "trees of Eden"—symbolizing previously humbled powers in the realm of the dead—are shaken by the sound of its collapse. The verse culminates in a striking image of these fallen entities finding a peculiar "comfort" as Egypt, once the epitome of earthly might, joins them in the "nether parts of the earth," thereby leveling all earthly pride in the face of divine judgment.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezekiel 31:16 is the concluding verse of a prophetic oracle (Ezekiel 31:1-18) delivered to Pharaoh, king of Egypt. This chapter employs an extended metaphor, comparing Egypt to a majestic cedar of Lebanon, renowned for its height, beauty, and extensive branches, symbolizing its immense power and influence over other nations. The preceding verses detail the cedar's ascent to unparalleled glory, its pride, and God's subsequent decree to cut it down. Verse 15 specifically describes the mourning of the deep and the withholding of its streams as the cedar falls, setting the stage for the far-reaching repercussions described in verse 16. The entire chapter serves as a stark warning to Egypt, demonstrating God's absolute sovereignty over all earthly kingdoms and His determination to humble the proud, ultimately leading into the final lament over Egypt in [Ezekiel 32](/ezekiel/32 "Ezekiel 32 - A Lament for Pharaoh").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy against Egypt in Ezekiel 31 was delivered during a period of intense geopolitical flux in the ancient Near East, likely around 587 BC, shortly before the final fall of Jerusalem to Babylon. Egypt, though past its imperial peak, remained a significant regional power, often sought as an ally by smaller nations (including Judah) against the rising Babylonian empire. The imagery of the "cedar of Lebanon" was culturally potent, as these trees were highly prized for their grandeur, strength, and use in monumental construction, symbolizing national power and pride. The concept of the "nether parts of the earth" or "pit" (Sheol) was the common ancient Israelite understanding of the grave, a shadowy realm where all the dead, regardless of their earthly status, resided. The "trees of Eden" and "choice and best of Lebanon" likely refer to other great nations or rulers who had already been humbled and descended into Sheol, awaiting the arrival of new, equally humbled, powerful figures.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Ezekiel and the broader prophetic literature. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Judgment**, emphasizing that no earthly power, however mighty, can withstand the judgment of God. The "shaking of nations" at Egypt's fall underscores the universal impact of God's righteous decrees, a theme also seen in [Isaiah 14:12-15](/isaiah/14-12-15 "Isaiah 14:12-15 - The Fall of Lucifer"). Another key theme is the **Humbling of Pride**. Pharaoh's magnificent "cedar" is cast down, illustrating the inevitable consequences of arrogance and self-exaltation before God, echoing the principle found in [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Precedes Destruction"). Finally, the verse explores the **Universal Nature of Death and Sheol**, portraying the underworld as the ultimate equalizer where all, from the mightiest king to the lowliest subject, eventually descend, finding a strange, ironic "comfort" in shared humility.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **nations (Hebrew, _gôwy'_):** This term (H1471) refers to foreign nations or Gentiles. In this context, it emphasizes the global impact of Egypt's fall, indicating that its collapse would send shockwaves throughout the geopolitical landscape, causing widespread fear and instability among other kingdoms. It highlights the far-reaching consequences of divine judgment.
* **fall (Hebrew, _mappeleth'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to fall," this word (H4658) signifies decadence, ruin, or a carcass. Here, it vividly describes the utter collapse and destruction of Egypt's power, transforming it from a towering, living entity into a lifeless ruin, a testament to its complete overthrow by divine decree.
* **comforted (Hebrew, _nâcham'_):** This word (H5162) typically means to sigh, pity, or console. In the context of Ezekiel 31:16, its usage is deeply ironic and chilling. The "comfort" experienced by the other "trees of Eden" in Sheol is not one of genuine solace but a grim satisfaction that the once-feared and dominant power of Egypt has now been brought to their level of humiliation and death, no longer a threat but a fellow resident of the underworld.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"I made the nations to shake at the sound of his fall":** This clause emphasizes the profound and terrifying impact of God's judgment on Egypt. The "sound of his fall" is not merely a literal noise but a metaphorical tremor that reverberates across the geopolitical landscape, causing widespread fear and instability among other nations who witnessed or were affected by Egypt's immense power. It underscores God's ultimate sovereignty over all earthly kingdoms, demonstrating that His actions have universal repercussions.
* **"when I cast him down to hell with them that descend into the pit":** This phrase directly attributes Egypt's downfall to God's active intervention. "Hell" (Hebrew: _Sheol_) and "the pit" (Hebrew: _bôwr_) are synonymous terms for the realm of the dead, the grave. It signifies that Egypt, personified as the cedar, is not merely defeated but utterly destroyed and consigned to the underworld, joining the ranks of other previously mighty, now fallen, rulers and nations. This highlights the finality and totality of God's judgment.
* **"and all the trees of Eden, the choice and best of Lebanon, all that drink water, shall be comforted in the nether parts of the earth":** This final clause presents a powerful, ironic image. The "trees of Eden" and "choice and best of Lebanon" represent other great nations or rulers who had already been humbled and sent to Sheol. Their "comfort" is not solace but a grim satisfaction or relief that Egypt, once the most formidable and arrogant power, has now joined them in their humbled state in the "nether parts of the earth" (the depths of Sheol). The phrase "all that drink water" likely refers to all living things sustained by life-giving water, here ironically applied to those who once flourished but are now in the dry, desolate realm of the dead, emphasizing the universal leveling effect of death and judgment.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 31:16 is rich with **Symbolism**, particularly the extended metaphor of Egypt as a majestic cedar of Lebanon, representing national pride, power, and influence. The "trees of Eden" and "best of Lebanon" symbolize other great, fallen nations and their rulers, now residing in Sheol, the common grave. The **Personification** of nations as trees allows for a vivid depiction of their rise and fall, making the abstract concept of national power tangible. **Hyperbole** is evident in the "shaking of nations," emphasizing the overwhelming scale and terrifying impact of God's judgment across the known world. Most strikingly, the verse employs profound **Irony** in the phrase "shall be comforted." This is not genuine comfort but a chilling, almost sarcastic relief felt by the already humbled dead, as the once-feared Egypt is brought down to their level, demonstrating the ultimate equalizer of death and divine judgment. The imagery of descent into the "pit" and "nether parts of the earth" uses **Metonymy** to refer to the state of death and the underworld itself.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 31:16 powerfully articulates the theological truth of God's absolute sovereignty over all earthly powers and His unwavering commitment to humble the proud. It serves as a stark reminder that no nation, however great its military might, economic prowess, or cultural influence, can ultimately stand against the divine will. The descent of the mighty cedar into Sheol underscores the transient nature of all human glory and the inevitability of death as the great equalizer. This passage teaches that true security and lasting peace are not found in the strength of empires but in submission to the Lord of Hosts, who raises up and casts down kingdoms according to His righteous purposes, ensuring that His justice will prevail over all human arrogance.
* [Psalm 75:6-7](/psalm/75-6-7 "Psalm 75:6-7 - God Judges the Earth")
* [Isaiah 2:12-17](/isaiah/2-12-17 "Isaiah 2:12-17 - The Day of the Lord Against Pride")
* [Revelation 18:9-10](/revelation/18-9-10 "Revelation 18:9-10 - Lament over Babylon's Fall")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 31:16 offers profound lessons for both individuals and nations in every age. It challenges us to examine where we place our ultimate trust and derive our sense of security and significance. If we, like ancient Egypt, build our identity and pride on fleeting earthly achievements, power, or possessions, we are vulnerable to the same humbling judgment. This verse calls us to cultivate humility, recognizing that all our abilities and successes are gifts from God, and that true strength lies not in self-exaltation but in dependence on Him. For nations, it serves as a perpetual warning against imperialistic pride and the illusion of invincibility, reminding leaders and citizens alike that divine justice will ultimately prevail. Understanding God's sovereignty over the rise and fall of empires provides a comforting perspective amidst global turmoil, assuring us that God remains on the throne, orchestrating history toward His ultimate redemptive purposes.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I be prone to pride, relying on my own strength or achievements rather than God's sovereignty?**
* **How does the transient nature of earthly power, as depicted in this verse, shape my prayers and my engagement with current global events?**
* **What "comfort" do I seek, and how does the ironic comfort of Sheol in this verse challenge my understanding of true solace?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the "trees of Eden" and "best of Lebanon" in this verse?**

Answer: The "trees of Eden" and "best of Lebanon" are symbolic representations of other powerful nations or rulers who had previously been brought low and sent to Sheol, the realm of the dead. The "cedar of Lebanon" itself is the primary metaphor for Egypt's grandeur. By referencing the "trees of Eden," the prophet evokes the idea of primeval perfection and ultimate downfall, linking Egypt's fate to a universal pattern of divine judgment against pride. These phrases collectively represent the assembly of the humbled mighty in the underworld, who now witness and find a grim "comfort" in the arrival of another once-dominant power like Egypt. This imagery reinforces the idea that no earthly power is exempt from God's judgment and the leveling effect of death.

**Does "hell" in this verse refer to the New Testament concept of eternal punishment?**

Answer: No, the Hebrew word translated "hell" in the King James Version is `shᵉʼôwl` (Sheol), which refers to the common grave or the realm of the dead in ancient Israelite understanding. It is a shadowy place where all deceased individuals, regardless of their moral standing, were believed to go. Similarly, "pit" (`bôwr`) and "nether parts of the earth" (`tachtîy ʼerets`) are synonymous terms for this subterranean abode of the dead. This is distinct from the New Testament concept of Gehenna or Hades, which often carries connotations of eternal punishment for the wicked, as seen in passages like [Matthew 25:41](/matthew/25-41 "Matthew 25:41 - Eternal Fire for the Wicked"). In Ezekiel 31:16, the emphasis is on the humbling and equalizing effect of death for all earthly powers.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Ezekiel 31:16 directly addresses the judgment of a proud earthly kingdom, its themes find profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the ultimate humbling and exalting work of Jesus Christ. The "fall" of the mighty cedar foreshadows the necessary descent of the Son of God, not into a pit of judgment for His own pride, but into the "nether parts of the earth" through His death and burial. Yet, unlike the proud cedar, Christ's descent was not an end but a means to ultimate victory. His resurrection from the grave (cf. [Acts 2:27-31](/acts/2-27-31 "Acts 2:27-31 - Peter's Sermon on Christ's Resurrection")), and subsequent ascension (cf. [Ephesians 4:9-10](/ephesians/4-9-10 "Ephesians 4:9-10 - Christ's Descent and Ascent")), demonstrate God's power to raise up the truly humble and righteous. The "shaking of nations" at the cedar's fall points to the cosmic impact of Christ's cross and resurrection, which shook the foundations of sin and death, establishing a new kingdom that will never fall (cf. [Hebrews 12:26-28](/hebrews/12-26-28 "Hebrews 12:26-28 - A Kingdom That Cannot Be Shaken")). Ultimately, the irony of the "comforted" dead in Sheol is transformed by Christ, who, by conquering death, offers true and eternal comfort to all who believe, delivering them from the fear of the pit and granting them eternal life in His presence (cf. [John 11:25-26](/john/11-25-26 "John 11:25-26 - Jesus, the Resurrection and the 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

Isaiah 14:15

Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit.

Isaiah 14:8

Yea, the fir trees rejoice at thee, [and] the cedars of Lebanon, [saying], Since thou art laid down, no feller is come up against us.

Ezekiel 26:15

¶ Thus saith the Lord GOD to Tyrus; Shall not the isles shake at the sound of thy fall, when the wounded cry, when the slaughter is made in the midst of thee?

Ezekiel 31:9

I have made him fair by the multitude of his branches: so that all the trees of Eden, that [were] in the garden of God, envied him.

Habakkuk 2:17

For the violence of Lebanon shall cover thee, and the spoil of beasts, [which] made them afraid, because of men's blood, and for the violence of the land, of the city, and of all that dwell therein.

Ezekiel 27:28

The suburbs shall shake at the sound of the cry of thy pilots.

Haggai 2:7

And I will shake all nations, and the desire of all nations shall come: and I will fill this house with glory, saith the LORD of hosts.