Norwegian 2018 (Bibelen - Guds Ord Hverdagsbibelen (Hermon Forlag))
Så sier Herren Gud: ‘På den dagen Assur fór ned til dødsriket, lot Jeg det bli sorg. Jeg dekket til dypet på grunn av den. Jeg holdt elvene tilbake, og de store vannene ble holdt igjen. Jeg kledde Libanon i sort for dens skyld, og alle trærne på marken tørket inn på grunn av dette. Jeg fikk folkeslagene til å skjelve ved braket da den falt, da Jeg styrtet Assur ned til dødsriket sammen med dem som farer ned i avgrunnen. Alle trærne i Eden, de utvalgte og beste fra Libanon, alle de som suger til seg vann, ble trøstet i jordens nedre deler. Også de fór ned til dødsriket sammen med assyrerne – til dem som var drept av sverd. Som dens støtte hadde de bodd i skyggen av den midt iblant folkeslagene.
What Does This Mean?
In this verse, God is speaking and describes how He caused mourning when an important leader was buried. God says He covered the sea and stopped the rivers, and even the trees in the forests showed sadness.
Explained for Children
Imagine if someone really important to everyone in the world suddenly went away forever. God says that when this happened, He made the ocean and rivers stop moving, and even the trees felt so sad they looked like they were crying.
Historical Background
The verse is from the book of Ezekiel, written by the prophet Ezekiel around 593-571 BC. The book was written to the Israelites who were in exile in Babylon, and this particular verse is part of a prophecy about the downfall of Egypt's powerful ruler.
Living It Out Today
This verse can remind us of the impact our actions have on others. Just as the death of a leader caused so much mourning, we can consider how we can positively influence those around us and how our own actions might affect others.
The 'he' refers to the Pharaoh of Egypt, who was considered a powerful leader. This verse is part of a prophecy about his downfall and the mourning that would follow.
What does it mean that God 'covered the deep' and 'restrained the floods'?
These phrases are symbolic, indicating that even the natural world would show signs of mourning. It suggests a deep emotional and spiritual impact, not literal actions.
Why does the verse mention Lebanon and the trees?
Lebanon is mentioned because of its dense forests and cedar trees, which were highly valued. The mention of trees mourning symbolizes the extent of the mourning and the impact on nature.
How can we apply the message of Ezekiel 31:15 to our lives today?
This verse reminds us of the impact our actions have on others and the world around us. It encourages us to consider the positive influence we can have and the care we should show towards others and the environment.