Bible Commentaries
Ezekiel 30

Verses 1-26

The third prophecy described the process by which Nebuchadnezzar would accomplish the purpose of Jehovah. It opens with an introductory word announcing the nearness of the day of the Lord, and foretelling the anguish which would fall on all the peoples in the hour of Egypt's overthrow. This anguish would be caused by the fact that all who had helped her would be made desolate, thus sharing in her judgment. As for Egypt itself, the stroke of Jehovah would fall on the land, whose rivers would be dried as it passed under the domination of evil men. The stroke would also fall on the idols, and finally on all the great cities of the land.

The fourth prophecy was directed against the power of Pharaoh. Judgment against him was described as the breaking of his arm, for which breaking there would be no healing, and therefore he would have no power to hold the sword. This would be accomplished by the king of Babylon, and Ezekiel contrasted his power with the weakness of Pharaoh by declaring that Jehovah would strengthen his arms, so that he might hold the sword and execute His judgment on the land of Egypt. Thus the Egyptians would be scattered among the nations, and dispersed through the countries. Again, each of these prophecies concludes with the clear declaration of purpose, "They shall know that I am Jehovah."