Ezekiel 32:29

There [is] Edom, her kings, and all her princes, which with their might are laid by [them that were] slain by the sword: they shall lie with the uncircumcised, and with them that go down to the pit.

There is Edom {H123}, her kings {H4428}, and all her princes {H5387}, which with their might {H1369} are laid {H5414} by them that were slain {H2491} by the sword {H2719}: they shall lie {H7901} with the uncircumcised {H6189}, and with them that go down {H3381} to the pit {H953}.

"There is Edom, her kings and all her princes, who, despite all their power, are laid with those who were killed by the sword, with the uncircumcised, with those who descended to the pit.

Edom is there, and all her kings and princes, who despite their might are laid among those slain by the sword. They lie down with the uncircumcised, with those who descend to the Pit.

There is Edom, her kings and all her princes, who in their might are laid with them that are slain by the sword: they shall lie with the uncircumcised, and with them that go down to the pit.

Commentary

Commentary on Ezekiel 32:29 (KJV)

Ezekiel 32:29 continues the prophet's dirge against Pharaoh and Egypt, expanding the vision of their descent into the underworld to include other proud nations that have already fallen. Here, the focus turns specifically to Edom, a nation known for its long-standing enmity towards Israel.

Historical and Cultural Context

Edom was a kingdom located southeast of Judah, traditionally descended from Esau, Jacob's brother. Despite this familial connection, Edom's historical animosity towards Israel was deep-seated, often exploiting Judah's weaknesses, notably during the Babylonian siege of Jerusalem. Ezekiel's prophecies against foreign nations (chapters 25-32) serve to highlight God's sovereign control over all peoples, not just Israel. The mention of "the pit" (Hebrew: Sheol or Bor, meaning a grave or abyss) refers to the ancient Israelite concept of the underworld, the common destination for all the dead. To "lie with the uncircumcised" was a profound insult and a mark of shame from an Israelite perspective, signifying exclusion from God's covenant people and a shared fate with pagan nations.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Judgment and Sovereignty: The verse powerfully illustrates God's ultimate judgment on all nations, regardless of their perceived might. Edom, despite its strength and royal lineage, is brought low, demonstrating that no earthly power can escape divine reckoning.
  • The Humbling of the Proud: Edom's fall serves as a stark reminder that pride goes before destruction. Their "might" (Hebrew: koach, strength or power) could not save them from the sword or the grave.
  • Shared Fate of the Wicked: The phrase "lie with the uncircumcised" emphasizes a common destiny for those outside of God's covenant, particularly those who opposed His people. This is a spiritual and cultural condemnation, placing Edom among the pagans who go down to the realm of the dead, Sheol, without distinction or honor.

Linguistic Insights

The term "uncircumcised" (Hebrew: ‘arelim) carried immense theological weight. For Israel, circumcision was the physical sign of God's covenant with Abraham and his descendants (Genesis 17:11). To be "uncircumcised" meant to be outside this covenant, spiritually defiled, and often equated with being an enemy of God or His people. Therefore, Edom's fate of lying "with the uncircumcised" underscored their spiritual bankruptcy and ultimate condemnation alongside other pagan nations.

Practical Application

Ezekiel 32:29 offers several timeless lessons. It reminds us that no earthly power, wealth, or influence can withstand God's ultimate judgment. Pride and hostility, especially towards God's purposes or His people, inevitably lead to downfall. Furthermore, the verse subtly points to the importance of one's spiritual standing; true security and honor come not from worldly might but from being in a right relationship with God through His covenant. Ultimately, all will face death, and the true distinction lies in one's eternal destiny, determined by their relationship with the divine.

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Cross-References

  • Jeremiah 49:7 (3 votes)

    ¶ Concerning Edom, thus saith the LORD of hosts; [Is] wisdom no more in Teman? is counsel perished from the prudent? is their wisdom vanished?

  • Jeremiah 49:22 (3 votes)

    Behold, he shall come up and fly as the eagle, and spread his wings over Bozrah: and at that day shall the heart of the mighty men of Edom be as the heart of a woman in her pangs.

  • Isaiah 63:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ Who [is] this that cometh from Edom, with dyed garments from Bozrah? this [that is] glorious in his apparel, travelling in the greatness of his strength? I that speak in righteousness, mighty to save.

  • Isaiah 63:6 (2 votes)

    And I will tread down the people in mine anger, and make them drunk in my fury, and I will bring down their strength to the earth.

  • Genesis 25:30 (2 votes)

    And Esau said to Jacob, Feed me, I pray thee, with that same red [pottage]; for I [am] faint: therefore was his name called Edom.

  • Ezekiel 25:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ The word of the LORD came again unto me, saying,

  • Ezekiel 25:17 (2 votes)

    And I will execute great vengeance upon them with furious rebukes; and they shall know that I [am] the LORD, when I shall lay my vengeance upon them.