Topical Bible: Egypt: Prophecies Respecting: Infatuation of Its Princes

◄ Egypt: Prophecies Respecting: Infatuation of Its Princes ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The biblical narrative often highlights Egypt as a significant nation, both in its interactions with Israel and in the prophetic declarations concerning its future. One of the notable themes in the prophecies regarding Egypt is the infatuation and folly of its princes, as depicted in the Scriptures.

Isaiah's Prophecy

The prophet Isaiah speaks extensively about Egypt, particularly in Isaiah 19. In this chapter, Isaiah prophesies a time of judgment upon Egypt, where the wisdom of its leaders would be confounded. Isaiah 19:11-14 states:

"The princes of Zoan are mere fools; Pharaoh’s wise counselors give senseless advice. How can you say to Pharaoh, 'I am one of the wise, a son of eastern kings'? Where are your wise men now? Let them tell you and reveal what the LORD of Hosts has planned against Egypt. The princes of Zoan have become fools; the princes of Memphis are deceived; the cornerstones of her tribes have led Egypt astray. The LORD has poured into her a spirit of confusion, and they have made Egypt stagger in all she does, as a drunkard staggers in his vomit."

This passage highlights the folly and confusion that would befall the leaders of Egypt. The "princes of Zoan" and "princes of Memphis" are specifically mentioned, indicating the centers of power and wisdom in Egypt that would be rendered ineffective. The "spirit of confusion" poured out by the LORD signifies divine intervention leading to the disarray and poor judgment among Egypt's leaders.

Ezekiel's Prophecy

Ezekiel also addresses the fate of Egypt and its leaders. In Ezekiel 30:13 , the prophet declares:

"This is what the Lord GOD says: 'I will destroy the idols and put an end to the images in Memphis. There will no longer be a prince in the land of Egypt, and I will instill fear in that land.'"

Here, the prophecy foretells the removal of Egypt's leadership and the eradication of its idols, symbolizing the end of its political and spiritual authority. The absence of a prince signifies a loss of governance and stability, further emphasizing the theme of infatuation and the downfall of its rulers.

Jeremiah's Prophecy

Jeremiah also contributes to the prophetic discourse concerning Egypt. In Jeremiah 46:17 , the prophet records:

"There they will cry out: 'Pharaoh king of Egypt was all noise; he has let the appointed time pass him by.'"

This verse underscores the ineffectiveness and failure of Egypt's leadership, particularly Pharaoh, who is depicted as all talk with no decisive action. The phrase "he has let the appointed time pass him by" suggests missed opportunities and a lack of discernment, further illustrating the infatuation and folly of Egypt's rulers.

Summary

The prophecies concerning the infatuation of Egypt's princes reveal a consistent biblical theme of divine judgment upon the nation's leadership. Through the words of Isaiah, Ezekiel, and Jeremiah, the Scriptures portray a picture of confusion, folly, and ultimate downfall for the rulers of Egypt. These prophecies serve as a testament to the sovereignty of God over the nations and the futility of human wisdom when it stands in opposition to divine will.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Isaiah 19:3,11-14
And the spirit of Egypt shall fail in the middle thereof; and I will destroy the counsel thereof: and they shall seek to the idols, and to the charmers, and to them that have familiar spirits, and to the wizards.
Torrey's Topical Textbook