Ezekiel 14:15

Or if I send wild beasts through the land to leave it childless and desolate, with no man passing through it for fear of the beasts,

Study Bible

If I send wild beasts through the land
This phrase begins with the conditional "If," indicating a hypothetical situation that God is presenting to Ezekiel. The Hebrew word used here is "אִם" (im), which often introduces a divine warning or potential judgment. The phrase "send wild beasts" reflects a common biblical motif where God uses nature as an instrument of judgment. In the ancient Near East, wild beasts were a real and present danger, symbolizing chaos and divine retribution. The "land" refers to the territory of Israel, emphasizing that God's judgment is not limited to foreign nations but can also be directed at His own people when they stray from His commandments.

and they bereave it
The term "bereave" comes from the Hebrew root "שָׁכַל" (shakal), which means to make childless or to cause loss. This word conveys a deep sense of loss and mourning, often associated with the death of children or loved ones. In this context, it suggests that the presence of wild beasts would lead to a significant loss of life and security, stripping the land of its inhabitants and causing profound grief. This imagery underscores the severity of God's judgment and the consequences of Israel's unfaithfulness.

so that it becomes desolate
The word "desolate" is translated from the Hebrew "שָׁמֵם" (shamem), which means to be deserted or laid waste. This term is frequently used in the prophetic literature to describe the aftermath of divine judgment, where once-thriving areas become barren and uninhabitable. The desolation serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of sin and the withdrawal of God's protective presence. Historically, desolation was a visible sign of divine displeasure, intended to lead the people to repentance and restoration.

and no man may pass through because of the beasts
This phrase highlights the complete transformation of the land due to the presence of wild beasts. The inability for "man" to "pass through" indicates a breakdown of normal life and commerce, as travel and communication become impossible. The Hebrew word for "man" here is "אָדָם" (adam), representing humanity in general. The phrase "because of the beasts" emphasizes the direct cause of this desolation, pointing to the wild animals as agents of God's judgment. This scenario serves as a powerful warning to the people of Israel about the consequences of their disobedience and the seriousness with which God views their covenant relationship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the mouthpiece of God, delivering messages of judgment and hope to the Israelites.

2. Israel
The primary audience of Ezekiel's prophecies, Israel is depicted as a nation under judgment due to its idolatry and disobedience.

3. Wild Beasts
Symbolic of God's judgment, these creatures represent the chaos and desolation that result from divine wrath.

4. Desolation
The state of the land when it is abandoned and uninhabitable, illustrating the severe consequences of turning away from God.

5. God's Judgment
The overarching theme of this passage, highlighting God's sovereignty and the seriousness of sin.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Sin
Sin has real and severe consequences. Just as wild beasts bring desolation, sin leads to spiritual and sometimes physical desolation.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God is in control, even in judgment. He uses various means, including nature, to execute His will.

Call to Repentance
The threat of judgment is a call to repentance. God desires that His people turn back to Him and avoid the consequences of their actions.

Trust in God's Protection
While judgment is real, those who remain faithful can trust in God's protection and provision.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets like Ezekiel serve as God's messengers, warning of judgment and calling for repentance. We should heed the warnings found in Scripture.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of wild beasts in Ezekiel 14:15 help us understand the nature of God's judgment?

2. In what ways does this passage challenge us to reflect on the seriousness of sin in our own lives?

3. How can we see God's sovereignty in the events described in Ezekiel 14:15, and how does this impact our trust in Him?

4. What parallels can we draw between the warnings given to Israel and the warnings found in the New Testament?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Ezekiel 14:15 to encourage repentance and faithfulness in our communities today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 26:22
This verse also speaks of God sending wild beasts as a form of judgment, emphasizing the covenantal consequences of disobedience.

Jeremiah 15:3
Similar imagery is used to describe the various forms of judgment God will bring upon a disobedient nation.

Revelation 6:8
The imagery of beasts is echoed in the apocalyptic visions, symbolizing divine judgment and the end times.