Yechezkel Chapter 31: The Parable of the Great Cedar and Egypt’s Fall
- Introduction of the Prophecy (Verses 1–2)
In the eleventh year, in the third month, G‑d speaks to Yechezkel and instructs him to address Pharaoh, king of Egypt, and his multitude. G‑d asks Pharaoh: “Whom do you resemble in your greatness?”
- Assyria as the Great Cedar in Lebanon (Verses 3–9)
Assyria is described metaphorically as a mighty cedar in Lebanon—tall, beautiful, and flourishing because of abundant waters that nourished it.
Its branches sheltered the birds of the sky, its shade protected the beasts of the field, and many nations dwelled securely beneath it.
This cedar was unmatched by any tree in the garden of G‑d—its height, branches, and beauty evoked envy from all the trees of Eden.
- The Cedar’s Downfall Due to Arrogance (Verses 10–12)
Because the cedar grew proud of its height, G‑d delivered it into the hands of the strongest nations as punishment for its wickedness.
Foreign invaders cut it down, leaving its shattered branches in valleys and rivers.
All the peoples who once dwelled under its shade abandoned it.
- A Warning to All Mighty Kingdoms (Verse 13–14)
Birds and beasts settle upon the fallen trunk, symbolizing humiliation.
This fate serves as a warning to all powerful nations: no “tree that drinks water” should exalt itself in pride.
Ultimately, all such nations—like men—will descend to the grave, to the depths of the Pit.
- Cosmic Mourning Over Assyria’s Fall (Verses 15–17)
When the cedar descended to the grave, G‑d caused the deep waters to mourn.
Lebanon darkened, and all the trees of the field trembled.
The nations quaked at the sound of its fall.
In the netherworld, the other great trees of Eden—symbolizing mighty kingdoms—were consoled, for this once‑exalted nation now lay among those slain by the sword.
Even its allies who lived under its protection descended into the grave with it.
- Egypt Will Share the Same Fate (Verse 18)
G‑d concludes by asking Pharaoh: “To whom are you comparable in glory and greatness?” Just like the cedar of Assyria, Pharaoh and his multitudes will be brought down to the depths of the earth. He will lie among the uncircumcised, alongside those slain by the sword. This, declares the Lord G-d, is the destiny of Pharaoh and all his multitude.
