Norwegian 2018 (Bibelen - Guds Ord Hverdagsbibelen (Hermon Forlag))
Derfor sier Herren Gud: ‘Denne skogen er et bilde på folkeslag som det har gått godt for. Deres velstand har gjort dem stolte, og derfor skal Jeg overgi dem i hendene på et mektig folkeslag som skal ramme dem. Jeg har drevet dem bort på grunn av deres mangel på respekt for Meg og på grunn av syndene deres. De grusomste blant folkeslagene har hogd dem ned og forlatt dem. Grenene dens har falt ned på fjellene og i alle dalene. Kvistene ligger brukne og ligger slengt ved bekkene i landet. Alle jordens folk har forlatt dem.
What Does This Mean?
This verse is from God, speaking through the prophet Ezekiel. It criticizes someone who has become proud and arrogant because of their success and status. The key message is that pride and arrogance will lead to downfall.
Explained for Children
Imagine a tree that grows really tall and starts to think it's the best tree in the forest. It gets so big and proud that it forgets to be humble. This verse is like God telling that tree it needs to remember to be humble, or else it might fall down.
Historical Background
Ezekiel 31 was written by the prophet Ezekiel around 591 BCE while he was in exile in Babylon. The audience was likely the Jewish exiles and those back in Judah. The cultural setting was one of political upheaval and exile, with messages of warning and judgment from God.
Living It Out Today
In today's context, this verse can apply to someone in business or politics who becomes arrogant because of their success. It serves as a reminder that humility is essential, and pride can lead to a fall, no matter how successful one is.