New International Version“You Cushites, too, will be slain by my sword.”
New Living Translation“You Ethiopians will also be slaughtered by my sword,” says the LORD.
English Standard VersionYou also, O Cushites, shall be slain by my sword.
Berean Standard Bible“You too, O Cushites, will be slain by My sword.”
King James BibleYe Ethiopians also, ye shall be slain by my sword.
New King James Version“You Ethiopians also, You shall be slain by My sword.”
New American Standard Bible“You also, Ethiopians, will be slain by My sword.”
NASB 1995“You also, O Ethiopians, will be slain by My sword.”
NASB 1977“You also, O Ethiopians, will be slain by My sword.”
Legacy Standard Bible“You also, O Ethiopians, will be slain by My sword.”
Amplified Bible“You also, O Ethiopians, will be slain by My sword.”
Christian Standard BibleYou Cushites will also be slain by my sword.
Holman Christian Standard BibleYou Cushites will also be slain by My sword.
American Standard VersionYe Ethiopians also, ye shall be slain by my sword.
Contemporary English VersionPeople of Ethiopia, the sword of the LORD will slaughter you!
English Revised VersionYe Ethiopians also, ye shall be slain by my sword.
GOD'S WORD® Translation"Even you, the people from Sudan, you will also die by my sword."
Good News TranslationThe LORD will also put the people of Ethiopia to death.
International Standard Version"Now as for you, Cush, you will surely be slain by my sword!
NET Bible"You Ethiopians will also die by my sword!"
New Heart English BibleYou Cushites also, you will be killed by my sword.
Webster's Bible TranslationYe Cushites also, ye shall be slain by my sword. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard Bible“You too, O Cushites, will be slain by My sword.”
World English BibleYou Cushites also, you will be killed by my sword. Literal Translations Literal Standard Version“Also you, O Cushim, they [are] pierced of My sword.”
Young's Literal Translation Also ye, O Cushim, pierced of My sword are they.
Smith's Literal TranslationAlso ye Cushites, they being wounded by my sword. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleYou Ethiopians, also shall be slain with my sword.
Catholic Public Domain VersionEven so, you Ethiopians, you will be executed by my sword.
New American BibleYou too, O Cushites, shall be slain by the sword of the LORD.
New Revised Standard VersionYou also, O Ethiopians, shall be killed by my sword. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleYou Ethiopians also, you shall be slain by the sword.
Peshitta Holy Bible TranslatedAlso you Kushites are killed by the sword OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917Ye Ethiopians also, Ye shall be slain by My sword.
Brenton Septuagint TranslationYe Ethiopians also are the slain of my sword.
Additional Translations ... Audio Bible
Context The Judgment on Cush and Assyria12“You too,O Cushites,willbe slainby My sword.”13And He will stretch out His hand against the north and destroy Assyria; He will make Nineveh a desolation, as dry as a desert.…
Cross References Isaiah 18:1-7Woe to the land of whirring wings, along the rivers of Cush, / which sends couriers by sea, in papyrus vessels on the waters. Go, swift messengers, to a people tall and smooth-skinned, to a people widely feared, to a powerful nation of strange speech, whose land is divided by rivers. / All you people of the world and dwellers of the earth, when a banner is raised on the mountains, you will see it; when a ram’s horn sounds, you will hear it. ...
Isaiah 20:4-5so the king of Assyria will lead away the captives of Egypt and the exiles of Cush, young and old alike, naked and barefoot, with bared buttocks—to Egypt’s shame. / Those who made Cush their hope and Egypt their boast will be dismayed and ashamed.
Isaiah 19:1-25This is the burden against Egypt: Behold, the LORD rides on a swift cloud; He is coming to Egypt. The idols of Egypt will tremble before Him, and the hearts of the Egyptians will melt within them. / “So I will incite Egyptian against Egyptian; brother will fight against brother, neighbor against neighbor, city against city, and kingdom against kingdom. / Then the spirit of the Egyptians will be emptied out from among them, and I will frustrate their plans, so that they will resort to idols and spirits of the dead, to mediums and spiritists. ...
Jeremiah 46:1-26This is the word of the LORD about the nations—the word that came to Jeremiah the prophet / concerning Egypt and the army of Pharaoh Neco king of Egypt, which was defeated at Carchemish on the Euphrates River by Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon in the fourth year of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah: / “Deploy your shields, small and large; advance for battle! ...
Ezekiel 30:1-26Again the word of the LORD came to me, saying, / “Son of man, prophesy and declare that this is what the Lord GOD says: Wail, ‘Alas for that day!’ / For the day is near, the Day of the LORD is near. It will be a day of clouds, a time of doom for the nations. ...
Amos 9:7“Are you not like the Cushites to Me, O children of Israel?” declares the LORD. “Did I not bring Israel up from the land of Egypt, the Philistines from Caphtor, and the Arameans from Kir?
Nahum 3:9Cush and Egypt were her boundless strength; Put and Libya were her allies.
Psalm 68:31Envoys will arrive from Egypt; Cush will stretch out her hands to God.
Isaiah 45:14This is what the LORD says: “The products of Egypt and the merchandise of Cush, along with the Sabeans, men of stature, will come over to you and will be yours; they will trudge behind you; they will come over in chains and bow down to you. They will confess to you: ‘God is indeed with you, and there is no other; there is no other God.’”
Ezekiel 29:10therefore I am against you and against your rivers. I will turn the land of Egypt into a ruin, a desolate wasteland from Migdol to Syene, and as far as the border of Cush.
Acts 8:27-39So he started out, and on his way he met an Ethiopian eunuch, a court official in charge of the entire treasury of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians. He had gone to Jerusalem to worship, / and on his return was sitting in his chariot reading Isaiah the prophet. / The Spirit said to Philip, “Go over to that chariot and stay by it.” ...
Matthew 12:42The Queen of the South will rise at the judgment with this generation and condemn it; for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and now One greater than Solomon is here.
Luke 11:31The Queen of the South will rise at the judgment with the men of this generation and condemn them; for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and now One greater than Solomon is here.
Acts 2:10Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome,
Acts 13:1Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch), and Saul.
Treasury of Scripture You Ethiopians also, you shall be slain by my sword. Ethiopians. Isaiah 18:1-7 Woe to the land shadowing with wings, whichis beyond the rivers of Ethiopia: … Isaiah 20:4,5 So shall the king of Assyria lead away the Egyptians prisoners, and the Ethiopians captives, young and old, naked and barefoot, even withtheir buttocks uncovered, to the shame of Egypt… Isaiah 43:3 For Iam the LORD thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour: I gave Egyptfor thy ransom, Ethiopia and Seba for thee. my. Psalm 17:13 Arise, O LORD, disappoint him, cast him down: deliver my soul from the wicked,which is thy sword: Isaiah 10:5 O Assyrian, the rod of mine anger, and the staff in their hand is mine indignation. Isaiah 13:5 They come from a far country, from the end of heaven,even the LORD, and the weapons of his indignation, to destroy the whole land. Jump to Previous CushimCushitesDeathEthiopiansKilledPiercedSlainSwordJump to Next CushimCushitesDeathEthiopiansKilledPiercedSlainSwordZephaniah 2 1.An exhortation to repentance.4.The judgment of the Philistines,8.of Moab and Ammon,12.of Ethiopia,13.and of Assyria.You too, O Cushites,The mention of the Cushites refers to the people from the region of Cush, which is often associated with the area south of Egypt, including parts of modern-day Sudan and Ethiopia. In biblical times, Cush was known for its powerful warriors and was a significant kingdom. The inclusion of the Cushites in this prophecy indicates the widespread nature of God's judgment, extending beyond the immediate neighbors of Israel to more distant nations. This reflects the universal scope of God's sovereignty and justice. will be slain
The phrase "will be slain" indicates a divine judgment that is both certain and severe. The use of the term "slain" suggests a violent end, emphasizing the seriousness of the consequences for those who oppose God's will. This judgment is not arbitrary but is a response to the actions and attitudes of the nations. It serves as a warning to all nations about the consequences of sin and rebellion against God. by My sword.
The "sword" is a common biblical metaphor for divine judgment and warfare. It symbolizes the power and authority of God to execute justice. In this context, the sword represents God's direct intervention in human affairs to bring about His righteous purposes. The use of "My sword" underscores that this is not merely a natural disaster or human conflict but an act of divine retribution. This imagery is consistent with other prophetic writings where God's judgment is depicted as a sword (e.g.,Isaiah 34:5-6,Jeremiah 25:31). The sword also foreshadows the ultimate judgment that will be executed by Christ, who is depicted in Revelation as wielding a sharp sword (Revelation 19:15). Persons / Places / Events 1. CushitesRefers to the people from the region of Cush, which is often associated with the area south of Egypt, possibly modern-day Sudan or Ethiopia. The Cushites were known for their military prowess and were a significant power in the ancient Near East. 2. The Sword of the LordSymbolizes God's judgment and power. In the context of Zephaniah, it represents divine retribution against nations that have opposed God or His people. 3. ZephaniahA prophet in the Old Testament who ministered during the reign of King Josiah of Judah. His prophecies focus on the coming judgment of God against Judah and the surrounding nations, as well as the eventual restoration of God's people. Teaching Points God's Sovereignty Over NationsGod's judgment on the Cushites demonstrates His sovereignty over all nations, not just Israel. This reminds us that God is the ultimate authority and judge of all the earth. The Universality of God's JudgmentThe inclusion of Cush in the list of nations facing judgment highlights that no nation is exempt from God's righteous standards. It calls us to reflect on our own lives and nations, ensuring we align with God's will. The Certainty of Divine JusticeThe phrase "will be slain by My sword" underscores the certainty and inevitability of God's justice. It encourages believers to trust in God's timing and justice, even when it seems delayed. Call to RepentanceThe broader context of Zephaniah calls for repentance and humility before God. This verse serves as a warning to turn from sin and seek God's mercy. Hope in God's RestorationWhile this verse focuses on judgment, the book of Zephaniah also promises restoration for those who turn to God. It offers hope that God's ultimate plan is for redemption and renewal. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1.What is the meaning of Zephaniah 2:12?
2.How does Zephaniah 2:12 illustrate God's judgment on nations opposing His people?
3.What lessons can we learn from God's actions against the Cushites?
4.How does Zephaniah 2:12 connect with God's justice in other Scriptures?
5.How should God's judgment in Zephaniah 2:12 influence our view of His sovereignty?
6.What practical steps can we take to align with God's will, avoiding judgment?
7.What is the historical context of Zephaniah 2:12 regarding the Cushites?
8.How does Zephaniah 2:12 reflect God's judgment on nations?
9.Why does God specifically mention the Cushites in Zephaniah 2:12?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Zephaniah 2?
11.Who are the Cushites mentioned in the Bible?
12.How is Jesus represented in each book of the Bible?
13.What explains the apparent inconsistency between God's merciful nature elsewhere and the violent retribution depicted in Ezekiel 23:22-27?
14.What does 'sharper than any two-edged sword' mean?What Does Zephaniah 2:12 Mean You tooZephaniah has just pronounced judgment on Philistia, Moab, and Ammon (Zephaniah 2:4-11). With the words “You too,” the prophet widens the spotlight: • No nation is exempt from God’s review; even distant peoples must answer to Him (Jeremiah 25:17-26). • The phrase reminds us that “God shows no partiality” (Romans 2:11) and that “all the nations will be gathered before Him” (Matthew 25:32). • It also cautions individual readers—if whole kingdoms are accountable, so are we (Hebrews 9:27).
O CushitesCush was the land south of Egypt, roughly modern Sudan and Ethiopia (Isaiah 18:1). Mentioning this remote region underscores God’s global reach. • Cushites were famed warriors (Jeremiah 46:9), yet military strength cannot shield from divine verdict (Psalm 33:16-17). • Even far-off nations were within the prophets’ vision, proving that “The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof” (Psalm 24:1). • The inclusion of Cush foreshadows the gospel’s later spread to “the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8).
will be slainThe language is stark: God’s judgment is not merely corrective; it can be terminal. • Similar warnings appear inIsaiah 66:16 andNahum 1:2. • This fulfills the principle that “the wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23). • Yet even in judgment, God’s goal is moral clarity—He “takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked” but calls for repentance (Ezekiel 33:11).
by My swordThe LORD Himself wields the sword; He is both Judge and Executor. • Scripture often pictures the “sword of the LORD” cutting down rebellion (Isaiah 31:8;Ezekiel 21:3-5). • In the New Testament, the sword is also the Word that pierces hearts (Ephesians 6:17;Hebrews 4:12), and Christ returns with “a sharp sword” from His mouth (Revelation 19:15). • Human empires rise and fall, but God’s word determines their destiny (Isaiah 40:7-8).
summaryZephaniah 2:12 declares that even the remote and powerful Cushites will not escape God’s judgment. The verse teaches: • God’s scrutiny is universal—“You too.” • No people group is beyond His jurisdiction—“O Cushites.” • Sin brings real, serious consequences—“will be slain.” • The final authority belongs to God alone—“by My sword.” His justice is certain, but His mercy remains available to all who heed His word and turn to Him. Verses 12-15. - 5 . The judgment shall fall upon the Ethiopians and Assyrians, representing the south and north.Verse 12. - Ethiopians; Cushites. These are named as the most remote inhabitants of the south with which the Israelites were acquainted ( Ezekiel 38:5). Ye shall be slain by my sword;the slain of my sword are they, the second person being dropped, as one cannot address the dead (Orelli). The Lord's sword is the instrument which he uses to effect his purpose of punishment (comp. Isaiah 27:1; Isaiah 34:5; Isaiah 66:16). The Ethiopians are reckoned among the forces of Egypt ( 2 Chronicles 12:3; Nahum 3:9, etc.). The prediction had a fulfilment when the Assyrians conquered Egypt, and again under Nebuchadnezzar. It shall have a more sublime accomplishment when the sword of the Spirit shall reduce the utmost south to the dominion of Christ (see Isaiah 45:14; Psalm 68:31). The commencement of this conversion is seen in the chamberlain of Queen Candace ( Acts 8:27, etc.).
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew You too,אַתֶּ֣ם(’at·tem)Pronoun - second person masculine plural
Strong's 859:Thou and thee, ye and youO Cushites,כּוּשִׁ֔ים(kū·šîm)Noun - proper - masculine plural
Strong's 3569:Cushite -- descendant of Cushwillגַּם־(gam-)Conjunction
Strong's 1571:Assemblage, also, even, yea, though, both, andbe slainחַֽלְלֵ֥י(ḥal·lê)Noun - masculine plural construct
Strong's 2491:Pierced, pollutedby My sword.חַרְבִּ֖י(ḥar·bî)Noun - feminine singular construct | first person common singular
Strong's 2719:Drought, a cutting instrument, as a, knife, sword
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OT Prophets: Zephaniah 2:12 You Cushites also you will be killed (Zeph. Zep Zp) |
