What role do these nations play in the prophecy of Ezekiel 38? Setting the Stage – Ezekiel 38:1-6 “‘Persia, Cush, and Put will accompany them, all with shields and helmets.’” (Ezekiel 38:5) • Gog assembles a vast northern coalition against Israel. • God Himself drags this army southward (v. 4), positioning them for judgment. • Verses 5-6 expand the roster, adding three named allies that stretch the coalition across three continents. Persia – Eastern Powerhouse • Ancient empire east of Israel; today identified with Iran. • Famous for vast armies and strategic wealth (Esther 1:1-4; Daniel 10:13). • In Ezekiel 38 it supplies seasoned troops and resources, bolstering Gog’s strength from the east. • Modern hostility toward Israel fits the prophetic picture of an enduring enmity (Psalm 83:4; Isaiah 13:17). Cush – Southern Alliance • Territory south of Egypt, encompassing modern Sudan/Ethiopia (Isaiah 18:1; Jeremiah 46:9). • Known for tall, fierce warriors and swift rivers—symbolizing formidable manpower. • Cush extends the invasion force from the south, surrounding Israel on another front and fulfilling God’s word that nations “from the ends of the earth” will gather for judgment (Jeremiah 25:31-33). Put – Western Flank • North-west African region, chiefly Libya (Jeremiah 46:9; Nahum 3:9). • Historically supplied mercenary archers and charioteers to Egypt’s armies, illustrating military support roles. • As part of Gog’s confederacy, Put reinforces the western side of the assault, illustrating the prophecy’s geographic breadth. Why God Names These Nations • East (Persia), South (Cush), and West (Put) ring Israel, demonstrating a comprehensive, global hostility. • Their inclusion underscores divine foreknowledge; the Spirit singled out specific lands that would still be identifiable in the “latter years” (Ezekiel 38:8). • The spread of allies magnifies God’s glory when He single-handedly shatters them (Ezekiel 39:21-23). Collective Role in the Prophecy • Provide additional manpower, resources, and strategic positions to Gog’s invasion. • Embody humanity’s united rebellion against the covenant people (Psalm 2:1-3). • Serve as instruments through which God publicly displays His holiness and power (Ezekiel 38:16, 23). Outcome Foretold • God rains down earthquakes, hail, fire, and brimstone, annihilating the coalition (Ezekiel 38:18-22). • The defeat leads the nations to “know that I am the LORD” (v. 23). • Israel is rescued, cleansed, and restored (Ezekiel 39:25-29), prefiguring the ultimate triumph described in Zechariah 12-14 and Revelation 19. Implications for Today • Modern Iran (Persia), Sudan/Ethiopia (Cush), and Libya (Put) already align in varying degrees of hostility toward Israel, hinting that the stage is being set. • The literal fulfillment of geography and alliances assures believers that every remaining promise will likewise come to pass (Matthew 24:35). |
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