Ezekiel 32:14

KJV

Then will I make their waters deep, and cause their rivers to run like oil, saith the Lord GOD.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then will I make their waters {H4325} deep {H8257}, and cause their rivers {H5104} to run {H3212} like oil {H8081}, saith {H5002} the Lord {H136} GOD {H3069}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then I will make their water clear and cause their streams to flow like oil,' says Adonai ELOHIM.

Berean Standard Bible

Then I will let her waters settle and will make her rivers flow like oil,’ declares the Lord GOD.

American Standard Version

Then will I make their waters clear, and cause their rivers to run like oil, saith the Lord Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 32:14, embedded within a lamentation over the impending judgment of Pharaoh and Egypt, vividly portrays the profound desolation that will befall the once-proud nation. Through striking imagery, the verse describes a dramatic transformation of Egypt's life-giving waterways from bustling, vibrant arteries into deep, slow-moving, and undisturbed currents, akin to the solemn, heavy flow of oil. This divine declaration underscores God's absolute sovereignty over all earthly powers, signaling the cessation of Egypt's former glory and the imposition of a deep, mournful stillness as a consequence of its pride and idolatry.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezekiel 32:14 is situated within a series of prophetic laments and judgments against foreign nations (Ezekiel 25-32), specifically a dirge concerning Pharaoh and all of Egypt (Ezekiel 32:1-16). This particular lament, delivered in the twelfth year of Jehoiachin's exile, follows earlier prophecies that depict Egypt as a fearsome, yet ultimately vulnerable, beast (e.g., the great dragon/crocodile in [Ezekiel 29:3](/ezekiel/29-3 "Ezekiel 29:3 - Pharaoh as a Great Dragon")). The preceding verses emphasize Egypt's fall from its perceived lofty status, being cast down into the pit with other defeated nations, highlighting the comprehensive nature of God's judgment against those who oppose Him. Verse 14, therefore, serves to amplify the imagery of this downfall, contrasting Egypt's former vitality—symbolized by its active waterways—with the profound stillness and desolation that divine judgment will bring. It underscores the completeness of God's work in humbling the proud, aligning with the broader narrative of God's sovereign control over all earthly kingdoms found throughout [the book of Ezekiel](/ezekiel "The Book of Ezekiel").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Egypt's very existence and prosperity were inextricably linked to the Nile River. The Nile was not merely a geographical feature but the lifeblood of the nation, providing fertile land, irrigation, transportation, and a source of national identity and pride. Its annual inundation was crucial for agriculture, and its bustling waters facilitated commerce and communication throughout the land. The imagery of "waters deep" and "rivers to run like oil" directly subverts this cultural understanding. It speaks to a cessation of the Nile's vital activity, implying a catastrophic disruption to Egypt's economy, social structure, and very way of life. This cultural devastation would have been a profoundly impactful sign of God's judgment, demonstrating His power over even the most central and seemingly unassailable aspects of a nation's existence. The Nile's transformation would be a direct assault on Egypt's self-perception as a powerful, self-sufficient entity, reliant on its own natural resources and gods, rather than the true God, Yahweh.
* **Key Themes:** The verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Ezekiel and the broader prophetic literature. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Judgment**, as the declaration "saith the Lord GOD" unequivocally asserts God's absolute authority over nations and their destinies, even over a seemingly invincible empire like Egypt. This echoes the broader biblical truth that God raises up and casts down kingdoms according to His will, as seen in [Daniel 4:17](/daniel/4-17 "Daniel 4:17 - God's Sovereignty Over Kingdoms"). Another prominent theme is the **Humbling of Pride**. Egypt, like other nations condemned in Ezekiel, is judged for its arrogance and self-exaltation, particularly its reliance on its own strength and its deceptive role towards Israel. The transformation of its vibrant rivers into a slow, heavy flow symbolizes the complete abasement of its power and glory, a recurring motif in prophecies against proud nations (e.g., [Isaiah 23](/isaiah/23 "Isaiah 23 - Prophecy Against Tyre")). Finally, the imagery conveys **Profound Desolation and Stillness**, a stark contrast to the former vibrancy of Egypt. This stillness is not peaceful but rather a heavy, mournful quietude, indicative of the cessation of life and activity that accompanies divine judgment, a motif also seen in prophecies against Babylon in [Isaiah 13](/isaiah/13 "Isaiah 13 - Prophecy Against Babylon").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **waters (Hebrew, _mayim'_):** This term (H4325), though dual in form, is used in a singular sense for water in general. In the context of Egypt, it specifically refers to the Nile River and its intricate network of canals and associated bodies of water. The Nile was the very source of life, fertility, and prosperity for ancient Egypt. Here, the divine declaration of making these waters "deep" signifies a catastrophic cessation of these life-giving qualities, transforming a symbol of vitality into one of stagnation and desolation.
* **deep (Hebrew, _shâqaʻ'_):** A primitive root (H8257) meaning "to subside," "to be overflowed," or "to sink." In Ezekiel 32:14, it implies a profound, settled depth, suggesting that the waters, once bustling with activity and perhaps shallow in their rapid flow, will become still, heavy, and undisturbed. This conveys a sense of desolation, the absence of vibrant activity, and a permanent submersion of Egypt's former glory.
* **rivers (Hebrew, _nâhâr'_):** This word (H5104) denotes a stream or river, encompassing major waterways like the Nile. In the ancient Near East, rivers were often potent symbols of national power, sustenance, and divine blessing. The alteration of these fundamental rivers directly impacts the core identity, economy, and sustenance of Egypt, illustrating the comprehensive and devastating extent of God's judgment upon the nation's very essence.
* **oil (Hebrew, _shemen'_):** Derived from a root meaning "grease," this term (H8081) primarily refers to liquid fat, especially olive oil, which was a valuable commodity used for anointing, fuel, and food. Its characteristic is a slow, viscous, and undisturbed flow. The comparison to oil emphasizes the heavy, solemn, and unmoving nature of the transformed rivers, contrasting sharply with the swift, life-giving currents typically associated with a thriving river system. It evokes a sense of mournful quietude and the loss of all dynamic energy.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then will I make their waters deep":** This opening clause unequivocally declares God's direct and sovereign agency in the impending judgment. The "waters," referring to Egypt's life-sustaining Nile River system, will be made "deep." This depth implies a profound cessation of their normal, active flow. Instead of being a source of vibrant life, fertile agriculture, and bustling commerce, they will become heavy, still, and perhaps even stagnant, reflecting the profound desolation and solemn quietude that will settle over the land. It signifies the end of Egypt's bustling activity and its descent into a state of utter abasement.
* **"and cause their rivers to run like oil":** This vivid simile further elaborates on the nature of the transformation. The "rivers," once flowing swiftly and powerfully, will now move with the slow, thick, and undisturbed viscosity of oil. This imagery underscores the dramatic shift from vitality to stagnation, from rapid movement to a heavy, almost mournful stillness. It suggests a lack of dynamic activity, a profound quietness, and perhaps even a sense of mourning or a heavy, oppressive atmosphere settling upon the land, symbolizing the complete draining of Egypt's former strength and glory.
* **"saith the Lord GOD":** This concluding phrase is a powerful divine affirmation, a recurring motif throughout the book of Ezekiel. It serves as an authoritative signature, emphasizing that this is not merely a human prediction or a natural disaster, but a direct, sovereign declaration from the one true God, Yahweh (Lord, H3069) and Adonai (God, H136), who holds ultimate authority over all creation and nations. It underscores the certainty, irresistibility, and divine origin of the judgment, leaving no doubt as to its source and its inevitable fulfillment.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 32:14 is rich with **Imagery** and **Symbolism**, painting a vivid picture of divine judgment. The central literary device is a powerful **Simile**: "cause their rivers to run like oil." This comparison is not literal but evokes a profound sense of stillness, heaviness, and perhaps even a funereal solemnity, contrasting sharply with the typical image of a vibrant, life-giving river. The "waters deep" also functions as **Symbolism**, representing the profound desolation and cessation of activity that will befall Egypt, signifying the sinking of its former glory. The entire verse employs **Contrast** by juxtaposing the expected, life-giving nature of Egypt's waterways with their divinely ordained transformation into something slow, heavy, and still, thereby emphasizing the completeness of the nation's downfall. The concluding phrase, "saith the Lord GOD," acts as an **Authoritative Declaration** or **Divine Oracle**, reinforcing the divine origin and certainty of the prophecy and asserting God's absolute sovereignty.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 32:14 powerfully articulates the theological truth of God's absolute sovereignty over all earthly powers and His unwavering commitment to execute righteous judgment against pride and rebellion. The transformation of Egypt's lifeblood—its rivers—into a state of deep, oil-like stillness serves as a potent symbol of the complete cessation of its former glory and the profound desolation brought about by divine wrath. This judgment is not arbitrary but a direct consequence of Egypt's arrogance, its idolatry, and its opposition to God's people. The verse reminds us that no nation, no matter how powerful or self-sufficient, stands outside the purview of God's ultimate authority, and that divine justice will ultimately prevail over all forms of human hubris.

* [Psalm 46:4](/psalm/46-4 "Psalm 46:4 - Rivers that Make Glad the City of God")
* [Isaiah 19:5-6](/isaiah/19-5-6 "Isaiah 19:5-6 - The Drying Up of the Nile")
* [Revelation 16:4](/revelation/16-4 "Revelation 16:4 - Rivers and Springs Turn to Blood")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 32:14 stands as a timeless testament to the immutable truth that God alone is sovereign over all creation, including the rise and fall of nations. For us today, this verse serves as a profound call to humility and a reorientation of our trust. In a world often captivated by economic prosperity, military might, or technological advancement, this passage reminds us that all human endeavors and perceived strengths are ultimately subject to the divine will. The imagery of "deep waters" and "rivers to run like oil" can metaphorically represent the humbling stillness that God can bring into our own lives or societies when we prioritize human pride over divine wisdom. It challenges us to examine where our true security lies and to cultivate a posture of reverence and obedience, recognizing that genuine peace and lasting stability are found not in earthly power but in faithful reliance upon the Lord GOD. It prompts us to consider how we might be contributing to, or benefiting from, systems that operate outside of God's righteous standards, and to repent and align ourselves with His purposes, seeking His justice and mercy in all things.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "rivers" or sources of perceived strength in my life or society might God be calling to a profound stillness or re-evaluation?**
* **How does the declaration "saith the Lord GOD" impact my understanding of God's authority over current global events and personal challenges?**
* **In what ways might I be placing my trust in earthly power or prosperity rather than in the unchanging character and sovereignty of God?**

### FAQ

**What is the symbolic meaning of "waters deep" and "rivers to run like oil" in this context?**

Answer: The imagery in Ezekiel 32:14 is profoundly symbolic, contrasting sharply with the typical understanding of Egypt's life-giving Nile River. "Waters deep" signifies a profound cessation of activity and a heavy, solemn stillness, rather than bustling commerce or vibrant life. It suggests a state of desolation and stagnation, where the usual flow of life and prosperity has been halted. It implies that Egypt's once-thriving waterways will become so undisturbed and quiet that they lose their dynamic, life-sustaining character. "Rivers to run like oil" further emphasizes this. Oil, being viscous and slow-moving, represents a dramatic shift from the swift, dynamic flow of a healthy river. It conveys a sense of heaviness, quietude, and perhaps even a mournful, undisturbed atmosphere settling over the land, symbolizing the complete humbling and desolation of Egypt's former glory and power. This is a picture of judgment, not natural abundance, illustrating God's power to transform the very essence of a nation's identity and livelihood.

**Why does God bring such severe judgment upon nations like Egypt?**

Answer: Throughout the prophetic books, God's judgment upon nations, including Egypt, is consistently portrayed as a righteous response to their pride, idolatry, oppression, and defiance of His divine order. In Ezekiel, Egypt is often depicted as arrogant, relying on its own strength and acting as a deceptive "staff of reed" to Israel ([Ezekiel 29:6-7](/ezekiel/29-6-7 "Ezekiel 29:6-7 - Egypt as a Broken Reed")). God's judgments serve multiple purposes: to demonstrate His absolute sovereignty over all creation, to punish unrighteousness, to vindicate His holy name among the nations, and ultimately, to reveal His glory so that "they shall know that I am the Lord" ([Ezekiel 32:15](/ezekiel/32-15 "Ezekiel 32:15 - They Shall Know That I Am the Lord")). These judgments are not arbitrary acts of wrath but expressions of divine justice against those who oppose His will and oppress His people, demonstrating that no earthly power can ultimately defy the Almighty.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Ezekiel 32:14 directly prophesies judgment upon ancient Egypt, its underlying theological principles find profound Christ-centered fulfillment. The verse highlights God's absolute sovereignty and His power to humble the proud and bring stillness to the bustling chaos of human empires. This divine authority is fully embodied in Jesus Christ, who is declared to be "the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation, for by him all things were created" ([Colossians 1:15-16](/colossians/1-15-16 "Colossians 1:15-16 - Christ's Supremacy")). Just as God brought the mighty Nile to a standstill, so Christ, by His death and resurrection, conquered the ultimate powers of sin and death, bringing a profound stillness to the raging torrents of human rebellion and spiritual bondage. The "deep waters" and "rivers like oil" can be seen as a foreshadowing of the ultimate desolation that awaits all who refuse to bow the knee to God's sovereign rule, yet for those in Christ, this judgment is transformed into a peaceful, secure rest. Through His sacrifice, Jesus offers true peace that surpasses all understanding ([Philippians 4:7](/philippians/4-7 "Philippians 4:7 - The Peace of God")) and leads His followers to "springs of living water" ([Revelation 7:17](/revelation/7-17 "Revelation 7:17 - The Lamb Will Guide Them to Living Waters")), a stark contrast to the stagnant waters of judgment. Ultimately, the judgment pronounced in Ezekiel 32:14 points to the coming of Christ as the righteous King who will ultimately subdue all earthly powers and establish His eternal kingdom of peace and justice ([Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdom of the World Has Become the Kingdom of Our Lord")).

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.