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Behold, the Assyrian was a cedar in Lebanon with beautiful branches, and with a forest-like shade, and of high stature; and its top was among the thick boughs.

Verse Takeaways

1

The Mighty Cedar Metaphor

Commentators explain that the magnificent "cedar in Lebanon" is a detailed metaphor for the Assyrian empire. Its "fair branches" represent its many provinces, its "shadowing shroud" symbolizes its protective military might, and its great height signifies its supreme status over other nations. This powerful image sets the stage for the warning that follows.

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Book Overview

Ezekiel

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Commentaries

4

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes

On Ezekiel 31:3–9

18th Century

Theologian

Fifth prophecy against Egypt: a warning to Pharaoh from the fate of the Assyrians.

The Assyrian empire, after being supreme in Asia for four …

Charles Ellicott

Charles Ellicott

On Ezekiel 31:3

19th Century

Bishop

A cedar in Lebanon: Lebanon is mentioned only because it was the place where the most famous cedars grew in their greatest perfect…

John Gill

John Gill

On Ezekiel 31:3

17th Century

Pastor

Behold, the Assyrian was a cedar in Lebanon Here grew the tallest, most stately, broad and flourishing ones. This sense i…

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Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry

On Ezekiel 31:1–9

17th Century

Minister

The falls of others, both into sin and ruin, warn us not to be secure or high-minded. The prophet is to show an instance of one whom the king of Eg…