Ezekiel 31:15
Thus saith the Lord GOD; In the day when he went down to the grave I caused a mourning: I covered the deep for him, and I restrained the floods thereof, and the great waters were stayed: and I caused Lebanon to mourn for him, and all the trees of the field fainted for him.
Ezekiel 31:15 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Ezekiel, chapter 31, verse 15, portrays a vivid picture of God's power and sovereignty. The verse speaks of God causing mourning and devastation when a great leader or ruler goes down to the grave. God is described as covering the deep waters, restraining floods, and causing even the trees to mourn. This imagery emphasizes the extent of God's control over all aspects of creation, from the depths of the sea to the tallest trees. It serves as a reminder of God's authority and ability to bring about both blessings and hardships in the world.
Theological Overview
This specific verse from the book of Ezekiel offers a vivid image of the power and sovereignty of God. In this passage, God speaks of causing mourning and destruction when a certain individual went down to the grave. The imagery of covering the deep, restraining floods, and causing Lebanon to mourn all suggest that God has control over all aspects of creation. The mention of trees fainting for him emphasizes the profound impact of this individual's passing, indicating that even the natural world responds to God's actions. This verse highlights the intricate relationship between God, humanity, and the natural world, showcasing God's authority and ability to bring about both destruction and mourning. Through theological interpretation and word studies, we can delve deeper into the significance of these powerful images and gain a richer understanding of God's plan and purpose within the context of this verse.
Ezekiel 31:15 in other translations
American Standard Version
Thus saith the Lord Jehovah: In the day when he went down to Sheol I caused a mourning: I covered the deep for him, and I restrained the rivers thereof; and the great waters were stayed; and I caused Lebanon to mourn for him, and all the trees of the field fainted for him.
World English Bible
Thus says the Lord Yahweh: In the day when he went down to Sheol I caused a mourning: I covered the deep for him, and I restrained its rivers; and the great waters were stayed; and I caused Lebanon to mourn for him, and all the trees of the field fainted for him.
Douay-Rheims
Thus saith the Lord God: In the day when he went down to hell, I brought in mourning, I covered him with the deep: and I withheld its rivers, and restrained the many waters: Libanus grieved for him, and all the trees of the field trembled.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Thus saith the Lord God, In the day when he went downe to hell, I caused them to mourne, and I couered the deepe for him, and I did restreine the floods thereof, and the great waters were stayed: I caused Lebanon to mourne for him, and all the trees of the fielde fainted.