Definition: And the land of Egypt shall be desolate and waste; and they shall know that I [am] the LORD: because he hath said, The river [is] mine, and I have made [it].

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 29:9. It’s a really important and thought-provoking passage about God’s control over creation and His plan for the future. Here's a simplified explanation: What it means in simple terms: God is saying that He has absolute ownership and control over everything – including the land, rivers, and even the very earth itself. He’s declaring that he is the one who made the river, and he’ll always keep it. Let's unpack it further: “The land of Egypt shall be desolate and waste…” : This refers to a period of great destruction and ruin in Egypt – imagine a massive, barren landscape. "...and they shall know that I [am] the LORD:” This is crucial. God is saying, “I am the Lord.” This isn't just a statement of fact; it’s a declaration of His authority and power. It emphasizes that he is the ultimate source and ruler. "...because he hath said, The river [is] mine, and I have made [it].” : This is the core of the verse. God says, “I have designated the river as my property, and I created it.” It’s like saying, "This river has a specific purpose – it will flow and nourish the land." What does this mean practically? God's Sovereignty: It highlights that God is in complete control of all things. He isn’t just passively watching; he’s actively shaping events. Divine Purpose: It suggests that God has a plan for everything, and He is the one who orchestrated this plan. Responsibility: It also implies that there's a responsibility to care for the land, as God has given it to him. Historical Context (Important!) This verse is found in Ezekiel’s visions – prophecies of future events. It’s often interpreted as a preview of the destruction of Egypt and the subsequent rise of Babylon. The "desolate and waste" part is seen as a foreshadowing of God's judgment on sin and wickedness. In essence, this verse is a powerful statement about God's absolute authority and the importance of recognizing His role in shaping the world. --- Do you want me to: Explain it further with an analogy? Discuss its symbolic meaning (beyond just the literal events)? Explore different interpretations of this verse within biblical theology?