Topical Encyclopedia
The nation of Egypt holds a significant place in biblical prophecy, particularly concerning predictions of civil unrest and domestic strife. These prophecies are primarily found in the Old Testament, where Egypt is often depicted as a powerful nation that would face divine judgment due to its actions and its role in the history of Israel.
One of the most notable prophecies concerning Egypt's internal conflict is found in the book of Isaiah.
Isaiah 19:2 states, "So I will incite Egyptian against Egyptian; brother will fight against brother, neighbor against neighbor, city against city, and kingdom against kingdom." This prophecy foretells a time of intense civil discord within Egypt, where societal bonds would break down, leading to widespread chaos and conflict. The imagery of brother fighting against brother underscores the depth of division and turmoil that would characterize this period.
The context of Isaiah's prophecy is significant, as it comes during a time when Egypt was a dominant power in the region. The prophecy serves as a warning that despite its strength and influence, Egypt would not be immune to internal strife and the consequences of turning away from God. The civil war and domestic strife are depicted as instruments of divine judgment, intended to humble the nation and turn its people back to the Lord.
Ezekiel also prophesies about Egypt's downfall and internal struggles. In
Ezekiel 30:12 , the Lord declares, "I will dry up the streams of the Nile and sell the land to evil men. By the hand of foreigners I will lay waste the land and everything in it. I, the LORD, have spoken." This passage, while focusing on the desolation of the land, implies a breakdown of societal order and the invasion of foreign powers, which would exacerbate internal conflicts and contribute to Egypt's domestic strife.
The prophetic literature often uses Egypt as a symbol of worldly power and opposition to God's people. The civil war and domestic strife prophesied against Egypt serve as a reminder of the futility of relying on human strength and alliances rather than seeking the Lord's guidance and protection. These prophecies highlight the sovereignty of God over nations and His ability to bring about His purposes, even through the upheaval of mighty empires.
Throughout the biblical narrative, Egypt's experiences of civil war and domestic strife are portrayed as part of a larger divine plan, demonstrating that no nation, regardless of its power or prestige, can stand against the will of God. These prophecies serve as a call to repentance and a reminder of the ultimate authority of the Lord over all the earth.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Isaiah 19:2And I will set the Egyptians against the Egyptians: and they shall fight every one against his brother, and every one against his neighbor; city against city, and kingdom against kingdom.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Resources
What is the significance of Egypt in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the meaning and purpose of the ten plagues of Egypt? | GotQuestions.orgHow many Israelites left Egypt in the exodus? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance •
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