Ezekiel 32:15
When I shall make the land of Egypt desolate, and the country shall be destitute of that whereof it was full, when I shall smite all them that dwell therein, then shall they know that I am the LORD.
Ezekiel 32:15 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the Book of Ezekiel, Chapter 30, Verse 19, speaks about the punishment that the land of Egypt will face due to their disobedience and sin against the Lord. The desolation of the land and the removal of all that once filled it will serve as a clear indication of God's power and judgment. The destruction of those who dwell in Egypt will be a testament to the authority and supremacy of the Lord. Through these actions, the people of Egypt will come to know and acknowledge the sovereignty of God. This verse emphasizes the consequences of rejecting God's commands and serves as a warning to those who fail to follow His ways. It reminds us of the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God in order to avoid facing His righteous judgment.
Theological Overview
One key theological interpretation of the verse in question is the demonstration of God's power and sovereignty over all nations. The verse highlights God's ability to bring judgment upon even the mightiest of nations, such as Egypt, and make them desolate. This serves as a reminder to all people that ultimately, it is the Lord who holds ultimate authority over the earth and its inhabitants. The destruction of Egypt's land and its people is not an arbitrary act, but a display of God's righteous judgment in response to their sinful ways. Through this act of judgment, the people of Egypt will come to know that it is the Lord who rules over all, and they will be made aware of His supreme power and authority. The verse serves as a warning to all nations to heed the Lord's commands and live in accordance with His will, lest they too face His righteous judgment.
Ezekiel 32:15 in other translations
American Standard Version
When I shall make the land of Egypt desolate and waste, a land destitute of that whereof it was full, when I shall smite all them that dwell therein, then shall they know that I am Jehovah.
World English Bible
When I shall make the land of Egypt desolate and waste, a land destitute of that of which it was full, when I shall strike all those who dwell therein, then shall they know that I am Yahweh.
Douay-Rheims
When I shall have made the land of Egypt desolate: and the land shall be destitute of her fulness, when I shall have struck all the inhabitants thereof and they shall know that I am the Lord.
Geneva Bible (1599)
When I shall make the land of Egypt desolate, and the countrey with all that is therein, shall be laid waste: when I shall smite all them which dwell therein, then shall they know that I am ye Lord.