Introduction:
The "Lament for Pharaoh King of Egypt" is a prophetic dirge found in the Book of Ezekiel, specifically in Ezekiel 32:1-16. This passage is part of a series of oracles against Egypt, delivered by the prophet Ezekiel during the Babylonian exile. The lament is a vivid and poetic expression of the impending downfall of Pharaoh and the Egyptian nation, symbolizing the broader theme of divine judgment against nations that oppose God's will.

Historical Context:
The lament is set against the backdrop of the late 7th and early 6th centuries BCE, a period marked by the decline of the Assyrian Empire and the rise of Babylon as a dominant power in the ancient Near East. Egypt, under Pharaoh Hophra (also known as Apries), sought to assert its influence in the region, often coming into conflict with Babylon. Ezekiel's prophecy reflects the geopolitical tensions of the time and serves as a warning to Egypt of its impending defeat and humiliation.

Structure and Content:
The lament is structured as a poetic oracle, employing vivid imagery and metaphor to convey its message. It can be divided into several key sections:

1. Introduction and Setting (Ezekiel 32:1-2):
The lament begins with a specific date, the twelfth year, twelfth month, on the first day of the month, marking the time of the prophecy. Ezekiel is instructed to raise a lamentation over Pharaoh, likening him to a lion among the nations and a monster in the seas.

"Son of man, take up a lament for Pharaoh king of Egypt and say to him: 'You were like a lion among the nations, but you are like a monster in the seas, thrashing about in your streams, churning the waters with your feet, and muddying the streams.'" (Ezekiel 32:2)

2. The Capture and Defeat of Pharaoh (Ezekiel 32:3-8):
God declares that He will spread His net over Pharaoh, capturing him like a fish. The imagery shifts to describe the land being darkened and the heavens covered, symbolizing the totality of Egypt's downfall.

"I will spread My net over you with a company of many peoples, and they will haul you up in My net. I will leave you on the land; I will cast you on the open field. I will cause all the birds of the air to settle on you, and I will satisfy the beasts of the whole earth with you." (Ezekiel 32:3-4)

3. The Mourning of the Nations (Ezekiel 32:9-10):
The lament continues with a description of the reaction of other nations to Egypt's fall. The nations will be appalled and their kings will shudder with fear, recognizing the power of God's judgment.

"I will trouble the hearts of many peoples when I bring about your destruction among the nations, in countries you do not know. I will cause many peoples to be appalled at you, and their kings will shudder with horror because of you when I brandish My sword before them." (Ezekiel 32:9-10)

4. The Desolation of Egypt (Ezekiel 32:11-16):
The final section of the lament describes the desolation that will befall Egypt. The land will be laid waste, its cities destroyed, and its people scattered. The lament concludes with a reiteration of the dirge, emphasizing the certainty of Egypt's fate.

"For this is what the Lord GOD says: 'The sword of the king of Babylon will come against you. I will cause your hordes to fall by the swords of mighty men, the most ruthless of all the nations. They will shatter the pride of Egypt, and all its hordes will be destroyed.'" (Ezekiel 32:11-12)

Theological Themes:
The lament for Pharaoh King of Egypt underscores several key theological themes present in the Book of Ezekiel. It highlights the sovereignty of God over the nations, demonstrating that no earthly power can withstand His judgment. The imagery of darkness and desolation serves as a reminder of the consequences of pride and opposition to God's will. Additionally, the lament reflects the broader biblical motif of divine retribution and the ultimate triumph of God's purposes in history.