King James Version

What Does Ezekiel 32:9 Mean?

“I will also vex the hearts of many people, when I shall bring thy destruction among the nations, into the countries which thou hast not known. vex: Heb. provoke to anger, or, grief”

Context

And when I shall put thee out, I will cover the heaven, and make the stars thereof dark; I will cover the sun with a cloud, and the moon shall not give her light. put: or, extinguish thee

All the bright lights of heaven will I make dark over thee, and set darkness upon thy land, saith the Lord GOD. bright: Heb. lights of the light in heaven dark: Heb. them dark

I will also vex the hearts of many people, when I shall bring thy destruction among the nations, into the countries which thou hast not known. vex: Heb. provoke to anger, or, grief

Yea, I will make many people amazed at thee, and their kings shall be horribly afraid for thee, when I shall brandish my sword before them; and they shall tremble at every moment, every man for his own life, in the day of thy fall.

For thus saith the Lord GOD; The sword of the king of Babylon shall come upon thee.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(9) **Vex the hearts.**—The margin, *provoke to grief,* is better, as being less ambiguous. “Thy destruction*” *means, *the news of thy destruction.* As is more fully expressed in the following verse, the fall of Egypt should be such a striking instance of Divine judgment as to awaken fear in every nation that should hear of the catastrophe.

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 32:9 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.