The Parable of the Cedar of Lebanon
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The Parable of the Cedar of Lebanon is found in the book of Ezekiel, specifically in Ezekiel 17. This parable is a rich allegory that uses the imagery of a majestic cedar tree to convey a message of divine judgment and hope for restoration. The cedar of Lebanon, known for its grandeur and strength, serves as a fitting symbol in this prophetic narrative.

Context and Structure

Ezekiel 17 begins with a riddle and a parable delivered by the prophet Ezekiel to the house of Israel. The parable is divided into two main parts: the allegory of the two eagles and the cedar, and the subsequent explanation provided by God through Ezekiel.

The Allegory

In the parable, a great eagle with powerful wings and colorful plumage comes to Lebanon and takes the top of a cedar. This eagle represents the king of Babylon, Nebuchadnezzar, who took Jehoiachin, the king of Judah, into exile. The eagle then plants a seed in fertile soil, which grows into a low-spreading vine. This vine symbolizes the remnant of Judah under Zedekiah, who was installed as a puppet king by Nebuchadnezzar.

A second eagle, representing Egypt, appears in the parable. The vine turns its roots and branches toward this eagle, seeking help and support. This action signifies Zedekiah's rebellion against Babylon by seeking an alliance with Egypt, contrary to God's will.

Divine Explanation

The Lord provides an explanation of the parable through Ezekiel, highlighting the consequences of Zedekiah's unfaithfulness. God declares that Zedekiah's attempt to break the covenant with Babylon and seek aid from Egypt will lead to his downfall. The vine will be uprooted, and the covenant will be broken, resulting in judgment upon Jerusalem.

Prophetic Significance

The parable concludes with a promise of hope and restoration. God declares that He Himself will take a sprig from the lofty top of the cedar and plant it on a high and prominent mountain. This sprig will grow into a majestic cedar, under which birds of every kind will find shelter. This imagery points to the future Messianic kingdom, where God's people will be restored and flourish under the reign of the Messiah.

Biblical References

The Berean Standard Bible provides the following key verses from Ezekiel 17:

· "This is what the Lord GOD says: 'I will take a shoot from the lofty top of the cedar and plant it. I will break off a tender sprig from its topmost shoots, and I will plant it on a high and lofty mountain.'" (Ezekiel 17:22)

· "On the mountain heights of Israel I will plant it, and it will bear branches and produce fruit and become a majestic cedar. Birds of every kind will nest under it; they will find shelter in the shade of its branches." (Ezekiel 17:23)

Theological Themes

The Parable of the Cedar of Lebanon underscores themes of divine sovereignty, judgment, and redemption. It illustrates the futility of relying on human alliances and the importance of faithfulness to God's covenant. The parable also foreshadows the coming of the Messiah, who will establish an everlasting kingdom where all nations will find refuge and peace.

Symbolism of the Cedar

The cedar of Lebanon is a symbol of strength, stability, and endurance. In biblical literature, it often represents the majesty and power of God's creation. In this parable, the cedar serves as a metaphor for the Davidic line and the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises through the Messiah.
Subtopics

Parable

Select Readings: The Parable of the Good Samaritan

Select Readings: The Parable of the Prodigal Son

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The Parable of the Boiling Pot
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