Definition: 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.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 32:15. It's a pretty powerful and dramatic statement about God’s plan for the future. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse essentially says that God is going to punish a nation – Egypt – severely if they don’t change their ways. He intends to make it so desolate (completely empty and ruined) that it's like a wasteland, and then he will use that as a way to demonstrate his power and judgment. Let's unpack it piece by piece: "When I shall make the land of Egypt desolate..." : This describes a catastrophic event – something really bad happening in Egypt. Think of it as a massive disaster. "...and the country shall be destitute of that whereof it was full." : This is key. The "country" refers to Egypt, and “full” means brimming with life, abundance, and prosperity. It’s like an overflowing river or fertile valley. It's being emptied out completely. “When I shall smite all them that dwell therein...” : This means God will actively punish those people – the Egyptians – with force and judgment. "...then shall they know that I [am] the LORD." This is the most important part. It’s a declaration of God's authority and power. It’s saying, "I am the one who made this situation possible, and I am the one who will bring about the consequences." What it means on a deeper level: This passage speaks to God’s ultimate plan for humanity – to establish his rule and judgment over the world. It's not just about punishing Egypt; it’s about demonstrating God's power and sovereignty. It highlights: God’s Sovereignty: He is in control of events, even when things look terrible. Divine Justice: There will be a reckoning for wrongdoing. Judgment and Consequences: It emphasizes that actions have consequences, and those who defy God will face repercussions. In short, it's a warning and a declaration – God is coming to punish and demonstrate his power. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Connect this verse to other parts of the Bible? Discuss what this passage might symbolize (e.g., a time of judgment, or a test of faith)?