Ezekiel 17:3 Meaning and Explanation
“And say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; A great eagle with great wings, longwinged, full of feathers, which had divers colours, came unto Lebanon, and took the highest branch of the cedar:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →A great eagle—representing Babylon—strips the tallest cedar branch from Lebanon, symbolizing the deportation of Judah's king.
The Context of Ezekiel 17:3
The parable begins with historical reality: Babylon's conquest and deportation of Judah's leadership.
What Does Ezekiel 17:3 Mean?
The eagle is a recurring symbol for imperial power in ancient Near Eastern imagery, representing Babylon's military dominance. Lebanon's cedar was prized for its height and strength, symbolizing Judah's monarchy. The eagle 'took the highest branch,' representing King Jehoiachin and Judah's ruling class.
This opening image of the parable describes the historical event of 597 BC when Babylon's king Nebuchadnezzar captured Jerusalem, deported the reigning king Jehoiachin, members of the royal family, and the nation's leaders to Babylon.
Ezekiel 17:3 in the Original Language
nesher (נשר), 'eagle' — symbol of military power and dominion, frequently used for imperial forces in prophetic literature.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ezekiel 17:3
What does Ezekiel 17:3 mean?
A great eagle—representing Babylon—strips the tallest cedar branch from Lebanon, symbolizing the deportation of Judah's king.
What is the context of Ezekiel 17:3?
The parable begins with historical reality: Babylon's conquest and deportation of Judah's leadership.