Time period
6th Century BC
Cultural background
The Israelites were in exile in Babylon, and the prophet Ezekiel was delivering messages from God to the exiled community.
Political environment
Babylon was the dominant empire, having conquered Judah and taken many of its people into exile. Egypt was a significant power but was in decline.
Geographical setting
The prophecy is set in Babylon, where Ezekiel was among the exiles. The chapter references Egypt and Assyria, significant powers in the ancient Near East.
Societal norms
The chapter uses the metaphor of a great tree to describe the pride and eventual downfall of nations, a common motif in ancient Near Eastern literature.
Significant figures
Pharaoh
Assyria
Used as a metaphor for Egypt's greatness and subsequent fall.
Connected events