Title

Egypt's shameful death and the house of Israel's Exodus from Sheol (Ezekiel 32.17-32 and 37.1-14)

Abstract

This article argues that Ezek. 32.17-32, which depicts the funerary procession of Egypt into Sheol, and 37.1-14, the vision of the nation's dry bones, should be read in context with each other. Ezekiel 32.17-32 is understood not as a lament, but rather as a ceremony escorting Egypt into its proper resting place in Sheol, using KTU 1.161 as a helpful guide. The prophet, it becomes clear, promised a shameful death for Egypt, while promising, in contrast, a new life full of honor for his own nation. At the heart of the matter was the honor of Yahweh, which Ezekiel underscored by incorporating exodus motifs.

Department(s)

Religious Studies

Document Type

Article

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1177/0309089210365968

Keywords

Dry bones, Egypt, Exodus, Ezekiel, Honor, Recognition formula, Shame, Sheol

Publication Date

6-1-2010

Journal Title

Journal for the Study of the Old Testament

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