At least four challenges are presented in understanding this verse. First, it should be determined whether the text refers to the past, to the present, or to both. Second, it should be determined what the expression we have given the hand
is referring to. Third, it should be determined what the reference to Egypt
and Assyria
implies. Is it literal or figurative? Fourth, it should be determined if the phrase to get bread enough
should be interpreted literally or figuratively.1
6 We have given the hand to Egypt, and to Assyria, to get bread enough.