Ezekiel 17:3
Ezekiel 17:3 in Multiple Translations
and tell them that this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘A great eagle with great wings and long pinions, full of feathers of many colors, came to Lebanon and took away the top of the cedar.
And say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; A great eagle with great wings, longwinged, full of feathers, which had divers colours, came unto Lebanon, and took the highest branch of the cedar:
and say, Thus saith the Lord Jehovah: A great eagle with great wings and long pinions, full of feathers, which had divers colors, came unto Lebanon, and took the top of the cedar:
And say, This is what the Lord has said: A great eagle with great wings, full of long feathers of different colours, came to Lebanon, and took the top of the cedar:
Tell them that this is what the Lord God says: There was a great eagle that had large wings, long feathers, and multi-colored plumage. It came to Lebanon and took off the top of the cedar.
And say, Thus saith the Lord God, The great eagle with great wings, and long wings, and ful of fethers, which had diuers colours, came vnto Lebanon, and tooke the highest branch of the cedar,
and thou hast said: Thus said the Lord Jehovah: The great eagle, great-winged, long-pinioned, Full of feathers, that hath diverse colours, Hath come in unto Lebanon, And it taketh the foliage of the cedar,
and say, ‘The Lord GOD says: “A great eagle with great wings and long feathers, full of feathers which had various colors, came to Lebanon and took the top of the cedar.
And say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; A great eagle with great wings, long-winged, full of feathers, which had divers colors, came to Lebanon, and took the highest branch of the cedar:
And say: Thus saith the Lord God: A large eagle with great wings, long-limbed, full of feathers, and of variety, came to Libanus, and took away the marrow of the cedar.
Say to them, ‘This is what Yahweh the Lord says: A huge eagle that had strong wings and long beautiful feathers of many colors flew to Lebanon. It grasped the top of a cedar tree
Berean Amplified Bible — Ezekiel 17:3
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Ezekiel 17:3 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וְ/אָמַרְתָּ֞
כֹּה
אָמַ֣ר
אֲדֹנָ֣/י
יְהוִ֗ה
הַ/נֶּ֤שֶׁר
הַ/גָּדוֹל֙
גְּד֤וֹל
הַ/כְּנָפַ֨יִם֙
אֶ֣רֶךְ
הָ/אֵ֔בֶר
מָלֵא֙
הַ/נּוֹצָ֔ה
אֲשֶׁר
ל֖/וֹ
הָֽ/רִקְמָ֑ה
בָּ֚א
אֶל
הַ/לְּבָנ֔וֹן
וַ/יִּקַּ֖ח
אֶת
צַמֶּ֥רֶת
הָ/אָֽרֶז
וְ/אָמַרְתָּ֞
ʼâmar
H559
to say
Conj | V-Qal-2ms
כֹּה
kôh
H3541
thus
Adv
אָמַ֣ר
ʼâmar
H559
to say
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
אֲדֹנָ֣/י
ʼĂdônây
H136
Lord
N-mp | Suff
יְהוִ֗ה
Yᵉhôvih
H3069
YHWH/God
N-proper
הַ/נֶּ֤שֶׁר
nesher
H5404
eagle
Art | N-ms
הַ/גָּדוֹל֙
gâdôwl
H1419
Great (Sea)
Art | Adj
גְּד֤וֹל
gâdôwl
H1419
Great (Sea)
Adj
הַ/כְּנָפַ֨יִם֙
kânâph
H3671
wing
Art | N-fd
אֶ֣רֶךְ
ʼârêk
H750
slow
Adj
הָ/אֵ֔בֶר
ʼêber
H83
wing
Art | N-ms
מָלֵא֙
mâlêʼ
H4392
full
Adj
הַ/נּוֹצָ֔ה
nôwtsâh
H5133
plumage
Art | N-fs
אֲשֶׁר
ʼăsher
H834
which
Rel
ל֖/וֹ
Prep | Suff
הָֽ/רִקְמָ֑ה
riqmâh
H7553
embroidery
Art | N-fs
בָּ֚א
bôwʼ
H935
Lebo
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
to(wards)
Prep
הַ/לְּבָנ֔וֹן
Lᵉbânôwn
H3844
Lebanon
Art | N-proper
וַ/יִּקַּ֖ח
lâqach
H3947
to take
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
צַמֶּ֥רֶת
tsammereth
H6788
treetop
N-fs
הָ/אָֽרֶז
ʼerez
H730
cedar
Art | N-ms
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Ezekiel 17:3
וְ/אָמַרְתָּ֞
ʼâmar
H559
"to say"
Conj | V-Qal-2ms
This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.
Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)
Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.
כֹּה
kôh
H3541
"thus"
Adv
This Hebrew word means thus or in this manner. It can also indicate a location or time, such as here or now. The KJV translates it in various ways, including also, here, and so.
Definition: 1) thus, here, in this manner 1a) thus, so 1b) here, here and there 1c) until now, until now...until then, meanwhile Aramaic equivalent: kah (כָּה "thus" H3542)
Usage: Occurs in 541 OT verses. KJV: also, here, + hitherto, like, on the other side, so (and much), such, on that manner, (on) this (manner, side, way, way and that way), + mean while, yonder. See also: Genesis 15:5; 1 Kings 22:20; Isaiah 7:7.
אָמַ֣ר
ʼâmar
H559
"to say"
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.
Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)
Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.
אֲדֹנָ֣/י
ʼĂdônây
H136
"Lord"
N-mp | Suff
Adonay is a title used to refer to God, spoken in place of Yahweh as a sign of reverence and respect. It is used throughout the Bible to address God or refer to Him in a formal way. Adonay is a term of worship and devotion.
Definition: Lord - a title, spoken in place of Yahweh in Jewish display of reverence Another name of ye.ho.vah (יהוה "LORD" H3068G)
Usage: Occurs in 430 OT verses. KJV: (my) Lord. See also: Genesis 15:2; Isaiah 3:17; Psalms 2:4.
יְהוִ֗ה
Yᵉhôvih
H3069
"YHWH/God"
N-proper
YHWH is a name for God, often used in combination with 'Lord'. It is similar to Yehovah, but with different vowels. This name emphasizes God's power and authority.
Definition: 1) Jehovah-used primarily in the combination 'Lord Jehovah' 1a) equal to ye.ho.vah (יהוה "LORD" H3068) but pointed with the vowels of e.lo.him (אֱלֹהִים "God" H0430)
Usage: Occurs in 296 OT verses. KJV: God. See also: Genesis 15:2; Ezekiel 14:21; Psalms 68:21.
הַ/נֶּ֤שֶׁר
nesher
H5404
"eagle"
Art | N-ms
An eagle or other large bird of prey, representing strength and agility. In the Bible, eagles are often used to describe God's care and protection, as seen in Psalm 91 and Matthew 24.
Definition: eagle, vulture, griffon-vulture Aramaic equivalent: ne.shar (נְשַׁר "eagle" H5403)
Usage: Occurs in 26 OT verses. KJV: eagle. See also: Exodus 19:4; Jeremiah 4:13; Psalms 103:5.
הַ/גָּדוֹל֙
gâdôwl
H1419
"Great (Sea)"
Art | Adj
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means something or someone great, whether in size, age, or importance. It appears in descriptions of the Great Sea and the Philistines. The word is used to convey a sense of magnitude or grandeur.
Definition: adj great Also named: pe.lish.ti (פְּלִשְׁתִּי "(Sea of the )Philistines" H6430I)
Usage: Occurs in 499 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] aloud, elder(-est), [phrase] exceeding(-ly), [phrase] far, (man of) great (man, matter, thing,-er,-ness), high, long, loud, mighty, more, much, noble, proud thing, [idiom] sore, ([idiom]) very. See also: Genesis 1:16; Joshua 7:26; 1 Kings 20:13.
גְּד֤וֹל
gâdôwl
H1419
"Great (Sea)"
Adj
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means something or someone great, whether in size, age, or importance. It appears in descriptions of the Great Sea and the Philistines. The word is used to convey a sense of magnitude or grandeur.
Definition: adj great Also named: pe.lish.ti (פְּלִשְׁתִּי "(Sea of the )Philistines" H6430I)
Usage: Occurs in 499 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] aloud, elder(-est), [phrase] exceeding(-ly), [phrase] far, (man of) great (man, matter, thing,-er,-ness), high, long, loud, mighty, more, much, noble, proud thing, [idiom] sore, ([idiom]) very. See also: Genesis 1:16; Joshua 7:26; 1 Kings 20:13.
הַ/כְּנָפַ֨יִם֙
kânâph
H3671
"wing"
Art | N-fd
The Hebrew word for wing, used to describe the edge or extremity of something, like a bird's wing or the corner of a garment. It appears in the Bible to describe various objects and locations, including the wing of a bird.
Definition: 1) wing, extremity, edge, winged, border, corner, shirt 1a) wing 1b) extremity 1b1) skirt, corner (of garment)
Usage: Occurs in 85 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] bird, border, corner, end, feather(-ed), [idiom] flying, [phrase] (one an-) other, overspreading, [idiom] quarters, skirt, [idiom] sort, uttermost part, wing(-ed). See also: Genesis 1:21; Psalms 139:9; Psalms 17:8.
אֶ֣רֶךְ
ʼârêk
H750
"slow"
Adj
This word describes something or someone as long or patient, often referring to God's slow anger. It is used to describe long pinions or being patient. The KJV translates it as long-suffering or patient.
Definition: 1) long (pinions) 2) patient, slow to anger
Usage: Occurs in 15 OT verses. KJV: long(-suffering, -winged), patient, slow (to anger). See also: Exodus 34:6; Proverbs 15:18; Psalms 86:15.
הָ/אֵ֔בֶר
ʼêber
H83
"wing"
Art | N-ms
In the Bible, this word describes a bird's wing or pinion, such as a dove or eagle's, symbolizing freedom and strength.
Definition: 1) pinion, wing 1a) of bird (dove, eagle) 1b) of Babylonian king (fig.)
Usage: Occurs in 3 OT verses. KJV: (long-) wing(-ed). See also: Psalms 55:7; Isaiah 40:31; Ezekiel 17:3.
מָלֵא֙
mâlêʼ
H4392
"full"
Adj
Full means having no empty space, like a full cup or a full heart. It can also mean a large amount, like a multitude of people.
Definition: 1) full, fulness, that which fills 1a) fully (adv)
Usage: Occurs in 57 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] she that was with child, fill(-ed, -ed with), full(-ly), multitude, as is worth. See also: Genesis 23:9; Deuteronomy 6:11; Psalms 73:10.
הַ/נּוֹצָ֔ה
nôwtsâh
H5133
"plumage"
Art | N-fs
This word refers to a bird's feathers or plumage, often used collectively to describe a bird's wings or entire feathered coat. In the Bible, it's used to translate as feathers or ostrich, highlighting the beauty of creation. It's a unique part of a bird's anatomy.
Definition: plumage, feathers
Usage: Occurs in 4 OT verses. KJV: feather(-s), ostrich. See also: Leviticus 1:16; Ezekiel 17:3; Ezekiel 17:7.
אֲשֶׁר
ʼăsher
H834
"which"
Rel
This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.
Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when
Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.
ל֖/וֹ
""
Prep | Suff
הָֽ/רִקְמָ֑ה
riqmâh
H7553
"embroidery"
Art | N-fs
In the Bible, this Hebrew word refers to embroidery or needlework with diverse colors, like the intricate designs on priestly garments. It is used in Exodus to describe the craftsmanship of the tabernacle. This word highlights the beauty of handmade textiles.
Definition: variegated stuff, embroidered
Usage: Occurs in 11 OT verses. KJV: broidered (work), divers colours, (raiment of) needlework (on both sides). See also: Judges 5:30; Ezekiel 16:18; Psalms 45:15.
בָּ֚א
bôwʼ
H935
"Lebo"
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.
Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter
Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
"to(wards)"
Prep
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.
הַ/לְּבָנ֔וֹן
Lᵉbânôwn
H3844
"Lebanon"
Art | N-proper
Lebanon is a mountain range in Israel, named for its white snow or limestone peaks, often mentioned in Psalms and other books.
Definition: Combined with biq.ah (בִּקְעָה " Valley" H1237I) § Lebanon = "whiteness" a wooded mountain range on the northern border of Israel
Usage: Occurs in 64 OT verses. KJV: Lebanon. See also: Deuteronomy 1:7; Psalms 104:16; Psalms 29:5.
וַ/יִּקַּ֖ח
lâqach
H3947
"to take"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
This Hebrew word means to take or get something, and it is used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to take a wife, to take possession of something, or to receive a gift. For example, in Genesis 2:22, God takes a rib from Adam to create Eve.
Definition: : take 1) to take, get, fetch, lay hold of, seize, receive, acquire, buy, bring, marry, take a wife, snatch, take away 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to take, take in the hand 1a2) to take and carry along 1a3) to take from, take out of, take, carry away, take away 1a4) to take to or for a person, procure, get, take possession of, select, choose, take in marriage, receive, accept 1a5) to take up or upon, put upon 1a6) to fetch 1a7) to take, lead, conduct 1a8) to take, capture, seize 1a9) to take, carry off 1a10) to take (vengeance) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be captured 1b2) to be taken away, be removed 1b3) to be taken, brought unto 1c) (Pual) 1c1) to be taken from or out of 1c2) to be stolen from 1c3) to be taken captive 1c4) to be taken away, be removed 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be taken unto, be brought unto 1d2) to be taken out of 1d3) to be taken away 1e) (Hithpael) 1e1) to take hold of oneself 1e2) to flash about (of lightning)
Usage: Occurs in 909 OT verses. KJV: accept, bring, buy, carry away, drawn, fetch, get, infold, [idiom] many, mingle, place, receive(-ing), reserve, seize, send for, take (away, -ing, up), use, win. See also: Genesis 2:15; Genesis 34:17; Exodus 30:23.
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
צַמֶּ֥רֶת
tsammereth
H6788
"treetop"
N-fs
This Hebrew word describes the top of a tree, like the highest branch where leaves and fruit grow, and is used to picture lush foliage.
Definition: treetop
Usage: Occurs in 5 OT verses. KJV: highest branch, top. See also: Ezekiel 17:3; Ezekiel 31:3; Ezekiel 31:14.
הָ/אָֽרֶז
ʼerez
H730
"cedar"
Art | N-ms
A cedar tree, known for its strength and durability, like the cedar wood used to build Solomon's temple in 1 Kings 5-6. The cedar tree was highly valued in ancient times for its timber and wood.
Definition: 1) cedar 1a) cedar tree 1b) cedar timber, cedar wood (in building) 1c) cedar wood (in purifications)
Usage: Occurs in 69 OT verses. KJV: cedar (tree). See also: Leviticus 14:4; 1 Chronicles 22:4; Psalms 29:5.
Study Notes — Ezekiel 17:3
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- Sermons on Ezekiel 17:3
Context — The Parable of Two Eagles and a Vine
1Now the word of the LORD came to me, saying,
2“Son of man, pose a riddle; speak a parable to the house of Israel
3and tell them that this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘A great eagle with great wings and long pinions, full of feathers of many colors, came to Lebanon and took away the top of the cedar.
4He plucked off its topmost shoot, carried it to the land of merchants, and planted it in a city of traders. 5He took some of the seed of the land and planted it in fertile soil; he placed it by abundant waters and set it out like a willow.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hosea 8:1 | Put the ram’s horn to your lips! An eagle looms over the house of the LORD, because the people have transgressed My covenant and rebelled against My law. |
| 2 | Jeremiah 48:40 | For this is what the LORD says: “Behold, an eagle swoops down and spreads his wings against Moab. |
| 3 | Ezekiel 17:7 | But there was another great eagle with great wings and many feathers. And behold, this vine bent its roots toward him. It stretched out its branches to him from its planting bed, so that he might water it. |
| 4 | Daniel 4:22 | you, O king, are that tree! For you have become great and strong; your greatness has grown to reach the sky, and your dominion extends to the ends of the earth. |
| 5 | Jeremiah 24:1 | After Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon had carried away Jeconiah son of Jehoiakim king of Judah, as well as the officials of Judah and the craftsmen and metalsmiths from Jerusalem, and had brought them to Babylon, the LORD showed me two baskets of figs placed in front of the temple of the LORD. |
| 6 | Matthew 24:28 | Wherever there is a carcass, there the vultures will gather. |
| 7 | Ezekiel 17:12–21 | “Now say to this rebellious house: ‘Do you not know what these things mean?’ Tell them, ‘Behold, the king of Babylon came to Jerusalem, carried off its king and officials, and brought them back with him to Babylon. He took a member of the royal family and made a covenant with him, putting him under oath. Then he carried away the leading men of the land, so that the kingdom would be brought low, unable to lift itself up, surviving only by keeping his covenant. But this king rebelled against Babylon by sending his envoys to Egypt to ask for horses and a large army. Will he flourish? Will the one who does such things escape? Can he break a covenant and yet escape?’ ‘As surely as I live,’ declares the Lord GOD, ‘he will die in Babylon, in the land of the king who enthroned him, whose oath he despised and whose covenant he broke. Pharaoh with his mighty army and vast horde will not help him in battle, when ramps are built and siege walls constructed to destroy many lives. He despised the oath by breaking the covenant. Seeing that he gave his hand in pledge yet did all these things, he will not escape!’ Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘As surely as I live, I will bring down upon his head My oath that he despised and My covenant that he broke. I will spread My net over him and catch him in My snare. I will bring him to Babylon and execute judgment upon him there for the treason he committed against Me. All his choice troops will fall by the sword, and those who survive will be scattered to every wind. Then you will know that I, the LORD, have spoken.’ |
| 8 | Lamentations 4:19 | Those who chased us were swifter than the eagles in the sky; they pursued us over the mountains and ambushed us in the wilderness. |
| 9 | 2 Kings 24:10–16 | At that time the servants of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon marched up to Jerusalem, and the city came under siege. And Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came to the city while his servants were besieging it. Jehoiachin king of Judah, his mother, his servants, his commanders, and his officials all surrendered to the king of Babylon. So in the eighth year of his reign, the king of Babylon took him captive. As the LORD had declared, Nebuchadnezzar also carried off all the treasures from the house of the LORD and the royal palace, and he cut into pieces all the gold articles that Solomon king of Israel had made in the temple of the LORD. He carried into exile all Jerusalem—all the commanders and mighty men of valor, all the craftsmen and metalsmiths—ten thousand captives in all. Only the poorest people of the land remained. Nebuchadnezzar carried away Jehoiachin to Babylon, as well as the king’s mother, his wives, his officials, and the leading men of the land. He took them into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon. The king of Babylon also brought into exile to Babylon all seven thousand men of valor and a thousand craftsmen and metalsmiths—all strong and fit for battle. |
| 10 | Jeremiah 22:23–28 | O inhabitant of Lebanon, nestled in the cedars, how you will groan when pangs of anguish come upon you, agony like a woman in labor.” “As surely as I live,” declares the LORD, “even if you, Coniah son of Jehoiakim king of Judah, were a signet ring on My right hand, I would pull you off. In fact, I will hand you over to those you dread, who want to take your life—to Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon and to the Chaldeans. I will hurl you and the mother who gave you birth into another land, where neither of you were born—and there you both will die. You will never return to the land for which you long.” Is this man Coniah a despised and shattered pot, a jar that no one wants? Why are he and his descendants hurled out and cast into a land they do not know? |
Ezekiel 17:3 Summary
Ezekiel 17:3 tells us about a powerful eagle that takes the top of a cedar tree, which represents God removing the leaders of Judah. This shows us that God is in control of all nations and leaders, as seen in Daniel 4:17 and Romans 13:1. We can trust in His plan, even when it seems unclear or difficult, because He is working everything out for our good, as seen in Jeremiah 29:11 and Romans 8:28. By looking at this verse, we can learn to humble ourselves and trust in God's sovereignty, as seen in 1 Peter 5:6 and Proverbs 3:5-6.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the great eagle represent in Ezekiel 17:3?
The great eagle in Ezekiel 17:3 is often interpreted as a symbol of a powerful nation, such as Babylon or Egypt, as seen in Ezekiel 17:7 and 31:3, which also use eagles to represent powerful kingdoms, similar to how God uses the eagle to describe His own care for Israel in Exodus 19:4 and Deuteronomy 32:11.
What is the significance of the cedar tree in this verse?
The cedar tree in Ezekiel 17:3 represents the kingdom of Judah, with the top of the cedar symbolizing its rulers or leaders, as seen in Isaiah 2:13, where the cedar is used to describe the pride of the nations, and in 1 Kings 4:33, where Solomon's wisdom is compared to the cedars of Lebanon.
What does it mean that the eagle 'took away the top of the cedar'?
When the eagle took away the top of the cedar, it signifies the removal of Judah's leaders or rulers, which could be a reference to the Babylonian exile, as described in 2 Kings 24:10-16, where Nebuchadnezzar took many of the leaders of Judah captive, similar to how God used the Assyrians to discipline Israel in 2 Kings 15:29 and 17:3-6.
How does this verse relate to the rest of the Bible?
Ezekiel 17:3 is part of a larger narrative about God's judgment and restoration of Israel, as seen in Ezekiel 36:22-32 and Isaiah 11:1, which describe the restoration of Israel, and is connected to other biblical themes, such as the importance of humility and trust in God, as seen in Proverbs 3:5-6 and Psalm 37:3-7.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways that God uses powerful nations or leaders to accomplish His purposes, and how can I trust in His sovereignty?
- How do I respond when God removes leaders or structures that I have come to rely on, and what does this teach me about His plan for my life?
- In what ways am I like the top of the cedar, proud or self-sufficient, and how can I humble myself before God, as seen in 1 Peter 5:6 and James 4:10?
- What are some ways that I can apply the lesson of Ezekiel 17:3 to my own life, trusting in God's plan and provision, as seen in Jeremiah 29:11 and Romans 8:28?
Gill's Exposition on Ezekiel 17:3
And say, thus saith the Lord God,.... The riddle is not the prophet's, nor the parable his, but the Lord God's; and exceeding beautiful and apt it is, to signify the things designed by it; the wisdom
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Ezekiel 17:3
And say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; A great eagle with great wings, longwinged, full of feathers, which had divers colours, came unto Lebanon, and took the highest branch of the cedar: A great eagle - the king of birds.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Ezekiel 17:3
A great eagle; Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, as , compared to a great eagle, king of birds, swift, strong, rapacious, and of a lofty flight. With great wings; mighty provinces on each side of his kingdom. Long-winged; his kingdom was vastly extended, as 4:1; the greatest king then living. Full of feathers; his kingdom was very full of people. Which had divers colours; were of divers nations, languages, and manners, so that this eagle, nay be well thought to be that sort which is greatest in the kind, and best resembleth him, who was the greatest monarch in the world at that time. Came; invaded with a mighty army; he came not as a traveller to please his curiosity, but as an invader to enlarge his dominion. Unto Lebanon; either the temple built with cedars of Lebanon; or Jerusalem, the chief city of the country where this great, fruitful, and pleasant hill was; or the whole country set forth by its chiefest hill, which runs about a hundred and twenty-five miles in length, and encloseth the land of Judea on the north side. Took; took captive and carried away with him. The highest branch; the king of Judah, Jehoiachin. Of the cedar; either the royal family, or rather, the whole nation of the Jews.
Trapp's Commentary on Ezekiel 17:3
Ezekiel 17:3 And say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; A great eagle with great wings, longwinged, full of feathers, which had divers colours, came unto Lebanon, and took the highest branch of the cedar:Ver. 3. A great eagle with great wings.] An eagle, that king of birds, is a fit emblem of an emperor; as it is here of Nebuchadnezzar the Great. Monarchs, as eagles, have quick eyes, long talons, fly high pitches, aim at great matters, strive to get above all others, choose themselves high and firm seats, &c. See Job 39:27-30, with the notes. Ajax is called áéôïò, an eagle, in Pindarus; so is King Pyrrhus in Plutarch, and took delight in that title. The Spaniard was well laughed at by Captain Drake and his forces when they took Santo Domingo, 1585, and found in the townhall the King of Spain’ s arms, and under them a globe of the world, out of which issued, not a well-plumed eagle, but a flying home, with this inscription, Non sufficit orbis the world is not enough. We could not so well bridle his Pegasus at Santo Domingo, yet we put a stop to him at Jamaica; but we have lately pulled his plumes in Flanders to some purpose, by gaining from him Dunkirk, now held by the English, and likewise Berghen, another place of great strength, now held by the French; the good news whereof came to us yesterday, being June 27, 1658. Praised be the holy name of God for ever. Came unto Lebanon,] i.e., Unto Judea, which lieth near the forest of Lebanon, which forest also lieth in the way from Babylon to Judea. And took the highest branch of the cedar.] Taleam, the top branch.
This was Jeconiah. Vide Pier. in Hieroglyph. This was written June 28, 1658.
Ellicott's Commentary on Ezekiel 17:3
(3) A great eagle with great wings.—In the original “the great eagle.” This is explained in Ezekiel 17:12 of “the king of Babylon.” Nebuchadnezzar is compared to an eagle also in Jeremiah 48:40; Jeremiah 49:22; and Cyrus to a bird of prey in Isaiah 46:11. He has great and long wings, because he has already flown victoriously over wide-spread lands; and he is “full of feathers which had divers colours,” because he had embraced in his empire a variety of nations differing in languages, manners, and customs. Came unto Lebanon.—Jerusalem is called Lebanon, as in Jeremiah 22:23; because Lebanon is the home of the cedar, and the royal palace in Jerusalem was so rich in cedar as to be called “the house of the forest of Lebanon” (1 Kings 7:2). The highest branch.—This is a word occurring only in Ezekiel (Ezekiel 17:22, and Ezekiel 31:3-4; Ezekiel 31:10). It is of uncertain etymology, but is explained in Ezekiel 17:4 as meaning “the top of his young twigs.” The English branch hardly conveys the exact idea, and it would be better to translate “topshoot.”
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Ezekiel 17:3
Verse 3. A great eagle] Nebuchadnezzar. See Jeremiah 48:40; Jeremiah 49:22; Daniel 7:4. And see here, Ezekiel 17:12, where it is so applied. Great wings] Extensive empire. Long-winged] Rapid in his conquests. Full of feathers] Having multitudes of subjects. Divers colours] People of various nations. Came unto Lebanon] Came against Judea. The highest branch] King Jehoiachin he took captive to Babylon.
The cedar] The Jewish state and king.
Cambridge Bible on Ezekiel 17:3
3. longwinged] With long pinions. The eagle was also of “divers colours” or speckled, with reference possibly to the very diverse nationalities included in the Babylonian empire. came unto Lebanon] The figure of the eagle coming to Lebanon and cropping off the highest branch and top of the young twigs (Ezekiel 17:4) represents the carrying off of those highest in the land of Israel. Lebanon as opposed to Babylon is the mountain of Palestine; the cedar, the tree of Lebanon, appears to represent the royal Davidic house (Ezekiel 17:12; Ezekiel 17:22), and its highest branches king Jehoiachin and the princes who were carried away to Babylon (Ezekiel 17:12). On “land of traffic” (Ezekiel 17:4), cf. ch. Ezekiel 16:29.
Barnes' Notes on Ezekiel 17:3
A great eagle ... - Probably the golden eagle, whose plumage has the variety of color here depicted. The eagle (the king of birds) is a natural representative of monarchs (compare, Jeremiah 48:40), and was an Assyrian emblem.
Whedon's Commentary on Ezekiel 17:3
3. A great eagle with great wings — This well described Nebuchadnezzar, swift, strong, and rapacious, whose mighty provinces were widespread (long-winged) and full of people (feathers), composed of
Sermons on Ezekiel 17:3
| Sermon | Description | |
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The Shouting Pulpit and the Shaking Pews by Ian Paisley | In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the decline of a once thriving church in Birmingham, UK. The church, which had a rich history of faithful preachers, now has only four memb |
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The Moral Decline of Society by Keith Daniel | This sermon emphasizes the importance of standing firm in the truth of God's Word, even in the face of persecution and societal opposition. It warns against being deceived by false |
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Nebuchadnezzar's Dream Vision. His Insanity and Restoration by Arno Clemens Gaebelein | Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches on the story of King Nebuchadnezzar's pride, fall, and restoration as a warning against self-exaltation and the consequences of turning away from Go |
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Bristol Conference 1976-16 Studies in the Judges by Bob Clark | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the concept of serving others and the spiritual deterioration of the nation. The sermon begins with a reference to Jesus describing himself |
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You Are Loved and Accepted by David Wilkerson | David Wilkerson emphasizes the profound love and acceptance that God has for His people, contrasting the harsh messages of the Old Testament prophet Jeremiah with the grace and mer |
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Atlantic Lyman conf.1972-02 Studies in Daniel 12 by Joseph Balsan | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on two characteristics of the end times mentioned in the Bible. The first characteristic is that people will run to and fro, which is seen in t |
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(Through the Bible) 2 Kings by Zac Poonen | This sermon delves into the stories and lessons from the 2nd book of Kings, highlighting the different kings who ruled Israel and Judah, the consequences of their actions, the impo |