Ezekiel 32:4

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then will I leave {H5203} thee upon the land {H776}, I will cast thee forth {H2904} upon the open {H6440} field {H7704}, and will cause all the fowls {H5775} of the heaven {H8064} to remain {H7931} upon thee, and I will fill {H7646} the beasts {H2416} of the whole earth {H776} with thee.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then I will throw you on the shore, hurl you into an open field, make all the birds in the air settle on you and let the animals of the whole earth eat their fill of you.

Berean Standard Bible

I will abandon you on the land and hurl you into the open field. I will cause all the birds of the air to settle upon you, and all the beasts of the earth to eat their fill of you.

American Standard Version

And I will leave thee upon the land, I will cast thee forth upon the open field, and will cause all the birds of the heavens to settle upon thee, and I will satisfy the beasts of the whole earth with thee.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 32:4 is a stark prophetic declaration of divine judgment against Pharaoh, king of Egypt, and his vast multitude, depicted as a mighty, fallen sea monster. This verse vividly portrays the utter degradation and dishonor awaiting Egypt's once-proud ruler, who will be left unburied and exposed on the open land, becoming carrion for the birds of the air and the beasts of the earth. It underscores God's absolute sovereignty over all nations and His unwavering commitment to bringing low the proud and defiant, revealing the devastating consequences of resisting divine will.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezekiel 32 forms part of a series of oracles against foreign nations (chapters 25-32), specifically targeting Egypt. This chapter is structured as a lamentation or funeral dirge (a qinah, a Hebrew poetic form often marked by a 3:2 rhythmic pattern) for Pharaoh, likening him to a great sea monster or dragon (tannin) dragged from the waters and left to die on land. The preceding verses (Ezekiel 32:1-3) establish this powerful metaphor, setting the stage for the graphic depiction of his demise in verse 4. The chapter continues to describe the mourning of nations and the descent of Egypt's multitude into Sheol, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of this divine judgment and its impact on the entire known world. This specific oracle serves as a climactic statement within Ezekiel's prophecies against Egypt, reinforcing themes of divine judgment and the fragility of human power.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy in Ezekiel 32 is delivered in the twelfth year of Jehoiachin's exile (Ezekiel 32:1), placing it around 585 BC, shortly after the fall of Jerusalem to Babylon. At this time, Egypt, under Pharaoh Hophra (Apries), was a significant regional power, though its influence was waning. Judah had often looked to Egypt for alliances against Assyria and then Babylon, a reliance frequently condemned by the prophets (e.g., [Isaiah 30:1-7](/isaiah/30-1 "Isaiah 30:1-7 - Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help")). Culturally, the imagery of a body left unburied and consumed by scavengers was the ultimate disgrace in the ancient Near East. A proper burial was paramount for honor and a peaceful afterlife; its denial signified a curse, divine rejection, and utter annihilation, as seen in biblical curses (e.g., [Deuteronomy 28:26](/deuteronomy/28-26 "Deuteronomy 28:26 - The Curse of Exposure")). This vivid imagery would have resonated deeply with Ezekiel's audience, conveying the profound humiliation and complete destruction awaiting Egypt.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Ezekiel and the broader prophetic literature. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Judgment and Sovereignty**, demonstrating God's absolute control over all nations and His ability to humble even the most formidable empires. Pharaoh's downfall illustrates the **Consequences of Pride and Arrogance**, a recurring motif where human self-exaltation inevitably leads to divine retribution. The graphic imagery of the unburied carcass highlights the theme of **Humiliation and Degradation**, emphasizing that those who defy God will be stripped of all dignity and honor. Furthermore, it reinforces the prophetic message that reliance on earthly powers, rather than on the Lord, leads to desolation, a lesson repeatedly taught throughout the book of Ezekiel, particularly concerning Jerusalem's reliance on Egypt and Babylon (e.g., [Ezekiel 17](/ezekiel/17 "Ezekiel 17 - Parable of the Eagles and the Vine")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **leave (Hebrew, _nâṭash'_):** From H5203, meaning "to pound, i.e. smite; by implication (as if beating out, and thus expanding) to disperse; also, to thrust off, down, out or upon (inclusively, reject, let alone, permit, remit, etc.)." Here, it conveys the act of abandoning or forsaking, emphasizing God's deliberate act of leaving Pharaoh's carcass exposed, devoid of any care or respect. It signifies a complete rejection and abandonment by the divine hand that once allowed Egypt its power.
* **cast thee forth (Hebrew, _ṭûwl'_):** From H2904, a primitive root meaning "to pitch over or reel; hence (transitively) to cast down or out." This word emphasizes the violent, decisive, and undignified manner in which Pharaoh is expelled from his place of power and honor. It's not a gentle setting down but a forceful expulsion, highlighting the severity and finality of God's judgment.
* **fowls (Hebrew, _ʻôwph'_):** From H5775, meaning "a bird (as covered with feathers, or rather as covering with wings), often collectively." This term refers to birds, specifically those that would scavenge on carrion. Their presence signifies a scene of desolation and utter disrespect for the dead, a stark contrast to the elaborate burials expected for royalty.
* **beasts (Hebrew, _chay'_):** From H2416, meaning "alive; hence, raw (flesh); fresh (plant, water, year), strong; also (as noun, especially in the feminine singular and masculine plural) life (or living thing), whether literally or figuratively)." In this context, it refers to wild animals, particularly predators and scavengers. Together with "fowls," they represent the complete consumption of the fallen empire, leaving nothing behind.
* **fill (Hebrew, _sâbaʻ'_):** From H7646, meaning "to sate, i.e. fill to satisfaction (literally or figuratively)." This word underscores the abundance of the carcass and the completeness of its consumption. The scavengers will not just nibble but will be fully satisfied, indicating the vastness of the destruction and the multitude of the fallen.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then will I leave thee upon the land":** This clause signifies God's direct action in abandoning Pharaoh, stripping him of all divine protection and support. The "land" refers to the dry ground, contrasting with the "waters" from which he was metaphorically drawn, emphasizing his complete removal from his natural element of power and influence.
* **"I will cast thee forth upon the open field":** This reinforces the public and exposed nature of Pharaoh's downfall. "Open field" (Hebrew: `sâdeh pânîym`) suggests a wide, uninhabited area, where the carcass would be visible and vulnerable, devoid of any dignity or proper burial rites. It highlights the utter disgrace and public spectacle of his demise.
* **"and will cause all the fowls of the heaven to remain upon thee":** This vivid imagery depicts the birds of prey descending and settling upon the body, indicating that it will become their permanent feeding ground. "Remain upon thee" (Hebrew: `shâkan`) implies a lingering presence, not just a passing meal, underscoring the prolonged and complete desecration of the once-mighty ruler.
* **"and I will fill the beasts of the whole earth with thee":** This final clause completes the gruesome picture, emphasizing the comprehensive consumption of the carcass. Not only birds but also land animals will feast, signifying the total destruction and dispersal of Pharaoh and his multitude. The phrase "fill... with thee" highlights the abundance of the "prey" and the satisfaction of the scavengers, underscoring the immense scale of the judgment.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 32:4 employs powerful **Imagery** to convey the horrific judgment upon Pharaoh and Egypt. The depiction of a once-mighty ruler reduced to a carcass consumed by scavengers is a vivid and visceral picture of ultimate degradation and dishonor. This imagery functions as a potent **Symbolism** for the complete collapse of Egypt's power and prestige. The act of God "leaving" and "casting forth" Pharaoh demonstrates **Anthropomorphism**, attributing human actions (abandoning, throwing) to God, emphasizing His direct and active role in the judgment. The use of "all the fowls of the heaven" and "the beasts of the whole earth" can be seen as a form of **Hyperbole**, underscoring the absolute and universal nature of the judgment, implying that no part of the fallen empire will escape consumption. Furthermore, the entire passage is a **Metaphor** where Pharaoh, initially a "dragon in the seas" (Ezekiel 32:2), is transformed into a discarded, unburied corpse, illustrating the profound shift from power to utter powerlessness. The contrast between Egypt's former glory and this ignominious end creates a strong sense of **Irony**, highlighting the futility of human pride against divine might.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 32:4 provides a profound theological statement on God's absolute sovereignty over all earthly powers and His unwavering commitment to justice. It serves as a stark reminder that no nation, no matter how mighty or self-assured, can ultimately defy the will of the Almighty. The humiliation of Pharaoh underscores the biblical principle that "pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall" ([Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride goes before destruction")). This divine judgment is not merely punitive but also revelatory, demonstrating God's holiness and His ultimate control over human history. The imagery of the unburied body being consumed by scavengers is a recurring motif in prophetic literature, signifying a complete and irreversible curse, a public display of divine wrath against those who oppose His righteous order. It assures God's people that even when powerful nations seem to dominate, the Lord remains enthroned, actively executing His purposes and bringing about His just decrees.
* [Deuteronomy 28:26](/deuteronomy/28-26 "The Curse of Exposure")
* [Psalm 79:2](/psalm/79-2 "Bodies given to wild beasts")
* [Revelation 19:17-18](/revelation/19-17 "The Great Supper of God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 32:4, while depicting a grim scene of ancient judgment, offers timeless and profound lessons for contemporary believers. It serves as a powerful reminder that God's sovereignty extends over all earthly affairs, including the rise and fall of nations and leaders. In a world often characterized by human pride, political power struggles, and the pursuit of self-glory, this verse calls us to humble ourselves before the Almighty, recognizing that true authority and ultimate destiny rest in His hands. It challenges us to examine our own hearts for any traces of arrogance or self-sufficiency, urging us to trust in God's unfailing justice rather than despairing at the apparent prosperity of the wicked. Furthermore, it encourages us to live with an eternal perspective, understanding that earthly power and prestige are fleeting, but God's kingdom endures forever. This passage compels us to align our lives with God's righteous standards, knowing that He will ultimately bring all things to account, ensuring that justice prevails and His glory is revealed.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the imagery of Pharaoh's downfall challenge my understanding of earthly power and authority?**
* **In what areas of my life might I be prone to pride or self-reliance, and how can I cultivate greater humility before God?**
* **How does this passage encourage me to trust in God's ultimate justice, even when I see injustice in the world around me?**

### FAQ
**Why is the imagery in Ezekiel 32:4 so graphic and violent?**

Answer: The graphic imagery in Ezekiel 32:4, depicting Pharaoh's body as carrion for birds and beasts, is deliberately chosen to convey the utter completeness and severity of God's judgment. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, to be left unburied and consumed by scavengers was the ultimate disgrace and a sign of divine curse. It symbolized the complete loss of honor, dignity, and any hope of a proper afterlife. The violence of the imagery underscores the magnitude of Egypt's pride and defiance against God, emphasizing that their downfall would be absolute and publicly humiliating, serving as a stark warning to other nations and a demonstration of God's unwavering justice and sovereignty over all creation. This type of imagery is common in prophetic literature to highlight the dire consequences of rebellion against God, as seen in passages like [Jeremiah 7:33](/jeremiah/7-33 "Jeremiah 7:33 - Bodies as food for birds and beasts").

**Does this prophecy imply a literal event where Pharaoh's body was consumed by animals?**

Answer: While the prophecy uses highly literal and vivid language, its primary purpose is symbolic and theological rather than a precise historical prediction of Pharaoh Hophra's literal bodily fate. Historical accounts suggest Pharaoh Hophra was indeed overthrown and eventually strangled by Amasis, his successor, and was likely buried. However, the *spirit* of the prophecy—the utter humiliation, the public disgrace, the complete annihilation of his power and legacy, and the consumption of his "multitude" (his army and empire) by the "beasts" of war and conquest—was certainly fulfilled. The imagery serves as a powerful metaphor for the complete and ignominious end of Egypt's dominance and Pharaoh's pride, illustrating that God's judgment would be so thorough that it would be as if his very body and empire were devoured and scattered, leaving no trace of his former glory. It's a prophetic hyperbole to convey absolute destruction and dishonor, much like the "Great Supper of God" in [Revelation 19:17-18](/revelation/19-17 "Revelation 19:17-18 - The Great Supper of God") where birds feast on the bodies of God's enemies.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Ezekiel 32:4 describes the judgment of a specific earthly ruler, its underlying principles find their ultimate fulfillment and reversal in Jesus Christ. Pharaoh's ignominious end—left exposed, dishonored, and consumed—stands in stark contrast to the destiny of the true King, Jesus. Though Christ willingly endured the ultimate humiliation, being "cast forth" outside the city gates to die a shameful death on a cross ([Hebrews 13:12](/hebrews/13-12 "Hebrews 13:12 - Jesus suffered outside the gate")), His body did not see decay ([Acts 2:27](/acts/2-27 "Acts 2:27 - You will not abandon my soul to Hades, nor let your Holy One see corruption")). Instead, He rose triumphantly from the grave, conquering sin, death, and the powers that sought to consume humanity. The judgment pronounced upon Pharaoh foreshadows the final, decisive judgment that Christ, as the righteous judge, will execute upon all who oppose God's kingdom ([John 5:27](/john/5-27 "John 5:27 - The Father has given Him authority to execute judgment")). Furthermore, the "filling" of the beasts with Pharaoh's flesh can be seen as a dark inversion of the spiritual sustenance Christ offers; instead of being consumed by judgment, those who believe in Christ are invited to partake of His life, finding true satisfaction and eternal life in Him ([John 6:53-56](/john/6-53 "John 6:53-56 - Eating the flesh and drinking the blood of the Son of Man")). Thus, Ezekiel 32:4, in its grim depiction of judgment, points forward to the one who perfectly humbled Himself, triumphed over death, and now reigns as the sovereign Lord, offering salvation rather than destruction to all who turn to Him.

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 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.

Ezekiel 31:12

And strangers, the terrible of the nations, have cut him off, and have left him: upon the mountains and in all the valleys his branches are fallen, and his boughs are broken by all the rivers of the land; and all the people of the earth are gone down from his shadow, and have left him.

Ezekiel 31:13

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

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 14:19

But thou art cast out of thy grave like an abominable branch, [and as] the raiment of those that are slain, thrust through with a sword, that go down to the stones of the pit; as a carcase trodden under feet.

Jeremiah 8:2

And they shall spread them before the sun, and the moon, and all the host of heaven, whom they have loved, and whom they have served, and after whom they have walked, and whom they have sought, and whom they have worshipped: they shall not be gathered, nor be buried; they shall be for dung upon the face of the earth.

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;