Ezekiel 17:17

Pharaoh with his mighty army and vast horde will not help him in battle, when ramps are built and siege walls constructed to destroy many lives.

Study Bible

Pharaoh with his mighty army and vast horde
This phrase refers to Pharaoh Hophra of Egypt, who reigned during the time of Ezekiel's prophecy. Historically, Egypt was a powerful nation with a formidable military force, often seen as a potential ally against Babylonian aggression. However, the reliance on Egypt for military support was a common but misguided strategy for Judah, as seen in other biblical accounts (Isaiah 30:1-5). The "mighty army and vast horde" emphasizes Egypt's perceived strength and resources, yet it also highlights the futility of trusting in human power rather than in God.

will not help him in battle
This indicates the failure of Egypt to provide the expected assistance to Zedekiah, the king of Judah, against the Babylonian siege. Historically, Egypt's intervention was either too late or ineffective, as recorded in Jeremiah 37:5-10. This serves as a reminder of the unreliability of earthly alliances and the importance of seeking divine guidance and support. Theologically, it underscores the theme of divine sovereignty and judgment, where God uses nations to fulfill His purposes, regardless of human plans.

when ramps are built and siege walls constructed
The construction of siege ramps and walls was a common military tactic in ancient warfare, used to breach city defenses. Archaeological evidence from sites like Lachish provides insight into these methods, showing the intense and methodical nature of ancient sieges. This phrase paints a vivid picture of the impending destruction and the inevitability of Jerusalem's fall, as prophesied by Ezekiel. It also reflects the fulfillment of God's warnings through His prophets about the consequences of disobedience and rebellion.

to destroy many lives
The phrase highlights the tragic outcome of the siege, resulting in significant loss of life. This serves as a sobering reminder of the cost of sin and rebellion against God. The destruction of Jerusalem and the loss of life were not only historical events but also served as a prophetic warning to future generations. In a broader biblical context, it points to the ultimate judgment and the need for repentance and faith in God's salvation plan. Theologically, it foreshadows the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ, who offers life and redemption to those who trust in Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, representing worldly power and alliances that are ultimately unreliable.

2. Mighty Army and Great Company
Symbolizes human strength and resources that are often trusted instead of God.

3. Siege Ramps and Walls
Represents the instruments of warfare and destruction, indicating the futility of relying on human defenses.

4. Ezekiel
The prophet delivering God's message, warning against misplaced trust.

5. Judah
The kingdom that sought help from Egypt, illustrating the consequences of turning away from God.

Teaching Points

The Futility of Worldly Alliances
Trusting in human power and alliances, like Judah did with Egypt, leads to disappointment and failure. Believers are called to place their trust in God alone.

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
This verse reminds us that God is in control of all nations and their leaders. Human plans and alliances cannot thwart His purposes.

The Consequences of Disobedience
Judah's reliance on Egypt instead of God serves as a warning about the consequences of disobedience and misplaced trust.

Spiritual Warfare and Trust
Just as physical siege ramps and walls were ineffective without God's help, spiritual battles require reliance on God's strength rather than our own.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Ezekiel 17:17 teach us about the reliability of human alliances compared to God's faithfulness?

2. How can we apply the lesson of Judah's misplaced trust in Egypt to our own lives today?

3. In what ways do we sometimes rely on "mighty armies" or "great companies" instead of God? How can we shift our trust to Him?

4. How does the theme of God's sovereignty in Ezekiel 17:17 encourage us in times of uncertainty or fear?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a "siege" in your life. How did trusting in God rather than human solutions change the outcome?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 31:1-3
This passage warns against relying on Egypt for help, emphasizing that God is the only true source of strength and deliverance.

Jeremiah 37:5-10
Describes a similar situation where Judah's reliance on Egypt is shown to be futile, reinforcing the message of Ezekiel 17:17.

Psalm 20:7
Contrasts trust in chariots and horses with trust in the name of the Lord, highlighting the theme of misplaced trust.