Ezekiel 32:16 (KJV)

What does Ezekiel 32:16 mean?

Ezekiel 32:16 describes a song of mourning that people from many nations will sing over Egypt and its people after their downfall, as declared by the Lord GOD. The verse emphasizes that Egypt’s destruction will be widely recognized and lamented, not just by Egyptians but by others as well.

The prophet Ezekiel is speaking God’s message to the people, announcing Egypt’s coming judgment. The “daughters of the nations” refers to women from other countries who would traditionally lead public mourning. This verse is part of a larger section where Ezekiel delivers a series of laments over Egypt, highlighting the seriousness and far-reaching impact of Egypt’s fall.

The Hebrew behind Ezekiel 32:16

• “lamentation” (קִינָה, qînāh): This word means a dirge or a song of mourning, often used for funeral songs. Its use here shows that the message is meant to be a formal, poetic expression of grief.
• “lament” (קָנָה, qānāh): This verb appears several times and means to mourn or wail. The repetition stresses the depth and public nature of the grief.
• “daughters” (בַּת, bat): In ancient times, women often led communal mourning. The mention of “daughters of the nations” points to a widespread, almost ritualized sorrow that goes beyond Egypt itself.
• “nations” (גּוֹי, goy): This word refers to peoples or nations other than Israel, underlining that Egypt’s fall will have international consequences.

Why Ezekiel 32:16 matters

• This verse clarifies that the lament is not just for Egypt but is meant to be heard and echoed by surrounding nations, showing the broad impact of Egypt’s judgment.
• The repeated use of words for mourning highlights how significant and devastating Egypt’s fall will be, both emotionally and politically.
• By placing this lament in the mouth of the Lord GOD, Ezekiel stresses that this is not just human sorrow but a decree and warning from God Himself, fitting into the larger prophetic message of accountability for powerful nations.