Zoan, an ancient city in Egypt, holds a significant place in biblical history and prophecy. Known in modern times as Tanis, Zoan was a prominent city in the northeastern Nile Delta. It served as a royal residence and a center of Egyptian power, especially during the time of the Exodus. The city is mentioned several times in the Bible, often in the context of God's judgment and prophetic declarations.

Biblical References and Prophecies:

1. Psalm 78:12, 43 · Zoan is referenced in the context of the miraculous signs and wonders performed by God in Egypt. The psalmist recounts the mighty works of God, stating, "He worked wonders before their fathers in the land of Egypt, in the region of Zoan" (Psalm 78:12). This highlights Zoan as a witness to God's power during the plagues and the Exodus.

2. Isaiah 19:11-13 · The prophet Isaiah speaks of the foolishness of the princes of Zoan, indicating a divine judgment upon the wisdom of Egypt. "The princes of Zoan are mere fools; Pharaoh’s wise counselors give senseless advice" (Isaiah 19:11). This prophecy underscores the futility of relying on human wisdom in opposition to God's plans.

3. Ezekiel 30:14 · Ezekiel prophesies the desolation of Egypt, specifically mentioning Zoan as a target of God's wrath. "I will lay waste Pathros, set fire to Zoan, and execute judgment on Thebes" (Ezekiel 30:14). This prophecy foretells the destruction and judgment that would come upon the city as part of God's broader judgment against Egypt.

4. Numbers 13:22 · While not a prophecy, this verse provides historical context, noting that Zoan was built seven years after Hebron. "They went up through the Negev and came to Hebron, where Ahiman, Sheshai, and Talmai, the descendants of Anak, were living. (Hebron had been built seven years before Zoan in Egypt.)" (Numbers 13:22). This reference situates Zoan within the broader narrative of Israel's history and its interactions with Egypt.

Theological Significance:

The prophecies concerning Zoan reflect a broader biblical theme of God's sovereignty over nations and His ability to bring down the proud and exalt the humble. Zoan, as a symbol of Egyptian power and wisdom, becomes a focal point for demonstrating the limitations of human strength and the ultimate authority of God. The prophetic declarations against Zoan serve as a reminder of the consequences of opposing God's will and the certainty of His judgments.

In the biblical narrative, Zoan's mention in the context of God's miraculous acts and prophetic judgments underscores the city's role as a testament to God's power and the fulfillment of His word. Through the prophecies concerning Zoan, the Bible communicates enduring truths about divine justice, the folly of human pride, and the supremacy of God's wisdom.Ezekiel 30:14
And I will make Pathros desolate, and will set fire in Zoan, and will execute judgments in No.
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Christ Our Passover
... out of Jerusalem," so was it true that the King of all prophets could not do
otherwise,"the prophecies concerning him would ... Let us turn to the land of Zoan. ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 2 1856/christ our passover.htm

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