King James Version

What Does Ezekiel 30:21 Mean?

“Son of man, I have broken the arm of Pharaoh king of Egypt; and, lo, it shall not be bound up to be healed , to put a roller to bind it, to make it strong to hold the sword.”

Context

Thus will I execute judgments in Egypt: and they shall know that I am the LORD.

And it came to pass in the eleventh year, in the first month, in the seventh day of the month, that the word of the LORD came unto me, saying,

Son of man, I have broken the arm of Pharaoh king of Egypt; and, lo, it shall not be bound up to be healed , to put a roller to bind it, to make it strong to hold the sword.

Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I am against Pharaoh king of Egypt, and will break his arms, the strong, and that which was broken; and I will cause the sword to fall out of his hand.

And I will scatter the Egyptians among the nations, and will disperse them through the countries.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(21) **I have broken.—**This is in the perfect tense, and refers to the breaking of the power of Egypt by the former conquests of Assyria, and perhaps especially to the great battle of Carchemish (about twenty years before), in which Egypt received a blow from which she never recovered. The word “roller” would be better understood now if translated *bandage.*

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Ezekiel. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Ezekiel 30:21 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.