Ezekiel 29:3 Meaning and Explanation
“Speak, and say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I am against thee, Pharaoh king of Egypt, the great dragon that lieth in the midst of his rivers, which hath said, My river is mine own, and I have made it for myself.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God declares war on Pharaoh, portrayed as a great dragon who falsely claims ownership of the Nile.
The Context of Ezekiel 29:3
God describes Pharaoh in terms of cosmic rebellion and human pride.
What Does Ezekiel 29:3 Mean?
The dragon imagery evokes both the power Pharaoh wields and the predatory nature of his reign. Tannim (תַנִּין) can mean sea-monster or crocodile, suggesting Pharaoh is as uncontrollable and dangerous as the great creatures dwelling in Egypt's waters.
Pharaoh's claim—'My river is mine own'—reveals blasphemous pride. The Nile was Egypt's lifeblood; Pharaoh's boast that he made and owns it denies God's sovereignty over creation and abundance.
Ezekiel 29:3 in the Original Language
tannim (תַנִּין), 'great dragon'—the creature that embodies chaos and worldly power; here a metaphor for Pharaoh's self-exaltation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ezekiel 29:3
What does Ezekiel 29:3 mean?
God declares war on Pharaoh, portrayed as a great dragon who falsely claims ownership of the Nile.
What is the context of Ezekiel 29:3?
God describes Pharaoh in terms of cosmic rebellion and human pride.