Ezekiel 12:20

The inhabited cities will be laid waste, and the land will become desolate. Then you will know that I am the LORD.'"

Study Bible

The inhabited cities
This phrase refers to the cities of Judah and Jerusalem, which were bustling with life and activity. The Hebrew word for "inhabited" is "יָשַׁב" (yashab), meaning to dwell or sit. Historically, these cities were centers of commerce, culture, and religious life. The prophecy of their desolation serves as a stark warning of the consequences of turning away from God. It reminds us that no matter how secure or prosperous a place may seem, it is vulnerable without the foundation of faithfulness to God.

will be laid waste
The Hebrew root for "laid waste" is "חָרַב" (charab), which means to be dry, desolate, or ruined. This conveys a complete destruction, not just a temporary setback. Archaeological evidence from the Babylonian conquest of Jerusalem in 586 BC supports the historical fulfillment of this prophecy, as the city was indeed destroyed and left in ruins. This serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of God's judgments and the reality of His warnings.

and the land will become desolate
The word "desolate" comes from the Hebrew "שָׁמֵם" (shamem), meaning to be appalled or devastated. This indicates a profound emptiness and barrenness, both physically and spiritually. The land, once flowing with milk and honey, would become a symbol of the people's spiritual desolation due to their disobedience. This transformation from abundance to desolation underscores the consequences of forsaking God's covenant.

Then you will know
This phrase emphasizes the purpose behind the judgment: recognition and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty. The Hebrew word "יָדַע" (yada) means to know intimately or experientially. Through the fulfillment of these prophecies, the people would come to a deeper understanding of God's power and authority. It is a call to repentance and a return to a relationship with the Lord.

that I am the LORD
The declaration "I am the LORD" is a powerful affirmation of God's identity and authority. The name "LORD" in Hebrew is "יְהוָה" (YHWH), the sacred and personal name of God, often rendered as Yahweh. This name signifies His eternal existence and covenant faithfulness. The repeated use of this phrase throughout Ezekiel highlights God's desire for His people to recognize Him as the one true God, sovereign over all creation and history. It serves as a reminder of His unchanging nature and His ultimate purpose to be known and worshiped by His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel was called by God to deliver messages of judgment and hope to the Israelites.

2. Inhabited Cities
Refers to the cities of Judah and Jerusalem, which were facing impending destruction due to the people's disobedience.

3. The Land
The land of Israel, which was to become desolate as a consequence of the people's sins.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who is revealing His sovereignty and justice through the coming judgment.

5. Babylonian Exile
The historical context in which Ezekiel prophesied, where the Israelites were taken captive by Babylon as a result of their rebellion against God.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Justice
Recognize that God's judgments are a demonstration of His sovereignty and justice. He is faithful to His word, both in promises and warnings.

The Consequences of Disobedience
Understand that persistent disobedience to God leads to severe consequences. This serves as a warning to remain faithful and obedient to God's commands.

The Purpose of Judgment
God's judgments are not merely punitive but are intended to lead people to acknowledge Him as LORD. Reflect on how God uses circumstances to draw us closer to Him.

Hope Beyond Desolation
Even in judgment, there is hope. God's ultimate plan includes restoration and redemption for those who turn back to Him.

Personal Reflection and Repentance
Use this passage as an opportunity for self-examination. Are there areas in your life where you need to repent and return to God?

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ezekiel 12:20 reflect the character of God as both just and merciful?

2. In what ways can the desolation of the land in Ezekiel's time serve as a warning for us today?

3. How do the prophecies of desolation in Ezekiel connect with the broader account of Israel's history and God's covenant promises?

4. What are some modern-day "inhabited cities" or areas in our lives that might be at risk of becoming "desolate" due to disobedience?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Ezekiel 12:20 to ensure that we remain faithful and obedient to God's word in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 25:11
This verse also speaks of the desolation of the land and the seventy years of Babylonian captivity, reinforcing the theme of judgment for disobedience.

Leviticus 26:31-33
These verses outline the consequences of Israel's disobedience, including desolation and exile, which align with Ezekiel's prophecy.

2 Chronicles 36:15-21
Chronicles the fulfillment of the warnings given by prophets like Ezekiel, showing the historical realization of the land's desolation.

Isaiah 6:11-12
Isaiah's prophecy of cities lying waste and the land being desolate parallels Ezekiel's message, emphasizing the consistency of God's warnings.

Deuteronomy 28:49-52
Describes the curses for disobedience, including invasion and destruction, which are echoed in Ezekiel's prophecy.