CRITICAL NOTES.]
Zephaniah 2:12.] Fulfilled when Nebuchadnezzar conquered Egypt, with which Ethiopia was closely allied (Jeremiah 46:2; Jeremiah 46:9; Ezekiel 30:5-9).
THE DOOM OF ETHIOPIA.—Zephaniah 2:12
“Zephaniah has to complete his circuit. He has travelled East and West, and now completes his round by denouncing judgment on the nations of the North and South. At the South he merely aims a blow in passing; but it is curious to note how far it reaches. He travels to the utmost limit of his knowledge, and hurls his curt ringing anathema at Cush or Ethiopia, the southernmost kingdom known to the Hebrews.” Notice—
I. That the enemies of the Church, though numerous and far distant, will be found out and punished. Philistia, Moab, and Ammon escape not. The sword passes Edom, a constant enemy, immediately south to Judah. Egypt insolent and more southern still, is not mentioned. But far away the judgment sweeps to remote Ethiopia. “Ye Ethiopians also.”
II. That in the punishment of these enemies the hand of God must be recognized. “Slain by my sword.” All nations and individuals are God’s instruments, and under his control. The most powerful and profane are under the rule and wielded by the hand of God. None can annoy and act without his permission. All things are as easily managed as a sword in the hand. Hence learn (a) to submit to God in the persecution by wicked men; and (b) to discern his power and use of them. “Deliver my soul from the wicked, which is thy sword.”