Ezekiel 19:3

She brought up one of her cubs, and he became a young lion. After learning to tear his prey, he devoured men.

Study Bible

She brought up one of her cubs
This phrase refers to the nurturing and upbringing of a young lion, symbolizing the development of a leader or ruler. In the Hebrew context, the word for "cubs" (גּוּר, gur) can also mean young or offspring, indicating the early stages of growth and potential. The imagery of a lioness raising her cubs is often used in Scripture to depict strength, care, and the preparation for leadership. Historically, this can be seen as a reference to the royal lineage of Judah, where the rulers were expected to be strong and courageous, much like lions.

and he became a young lion
The transformation from a cub to a young lion signifies maturity and the assumption of power. The Hebrew word for "young lion" (כְּפִיר, kephir) suggests a lion that is not yet fully grown but is strong and capable. This reflects the transition of a leader from potential to actual authority. In the historical context of Israel, this could be seen as a reference to the kings who rose to power, embodying the strength and ferocity of a lion, a common symbol of royalty and dominion in the ancient Near East.

After learning to tear his prey
This phrase highlights the process of acquiring skills necessary for survival and dominance. The act of tearing prey is a natural behavior for lions, symbolizing the ability to conquer and rule. In the Hebrew, the verb "to tear" (טָרַף, taraph) conveys a sense of violence and power. Scripturally, this can be seen as a metaphor for the king's ability to assert control and maintain order, often through force. It reflects the harsh realities of leadership in a fallen world, where strength and decisiveness are necessary traits.

he devoured men
The culmination of the young lion's development is depicted in this phrase, where the lion's predatory nature is fully realized. The Hebrew word for "devoured" (אָכַל, akal) implies consumption and destruction. This can be interpreted as a critique of the rulers of Israel who, instead of protecting and nurturing their people, exploited and oppressed them. Historically, this reflects the failures of certain kings who, rather than being shepherds to their people, became predators. In a broader spiritual sense, it serves as a warning against the corrupting influence of power and the responsibility of leaders to serve justly and righteously.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Lioness
Symbolically represents the nation of Israel, particularly the royal line of Judah. The imagery of a lioness is used to depict strength and nobility.

2. The Cub
Represents one of the kings of Judah, likely Jehoahaz, who was taken captive by Pharaoh Neco of Egypt. The cub growing into a young lion symbolizes his rise to power and influence.

3. The Young Lion
This refers to the king's development into a ruler who exercises authority and power, but also engages in destructive behavior, as indicated by "devoured men."

4. Prey
Symbolizes the nations or people that the king oppresses or conquers, reflecting the aggressive and often unjust actions of the rulers of Judah.

5. Devouring Men
This phrase indicates the king's oppressive and violent rule, leading to the suffering and destruction of his own people and others.

Teaching Points

The Responsibility of Leadership
Leaders are entrusted with power and influence, which should be used to serve and protect, not to oppress and destroy. The young lion's actions serve as a warning against the misuse of authority.

Consequences of Sinful Actions
The devouring nature of the young lion reflects the destructive consequences of sin and disobedience to God. It serves as a reminder of the importance of aligning leadership with God's principles.

Symbolism of the Lion
The lion is a powerful symbol in Scripture, representing both noble leadership and destructive power. Understanding this duality can help us discern the character of leaders and the nature of their rule.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
Despite the power of earthly rulers, God's sovereignty prevails. The captivity of the king serves as a reminder that God holds ultimate authority and will judge unrighteousness.

Hope for Restoration
While the passage highlights judgment, it also points to the hope of restoration through repentance and alignment with God's will, as seen throughout the prophetic books.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of a lioness and her cubs in Ezekiel 19:3 help us understand the nature of leadership in Judah? Reflect on the responsibilities of leaders today.

2. In what ways does the account of Jehoahaz in 2 Kings 23:31-34 illustrate the fulfillment of the prophecy in Ezekiel 19:3? How can this historical context deepen our understanding of the passage?

3. How does the symbolism of the lion in Genesis 49:9 and Hosea 5:14 enhance our understanding of the dual nature of leadership as both noble and potentially destructive?

4. What lessons can we learn from the consequences faced by the young lion in Ezekiel 19:3 about the importance of righteous leadership and the dangers of abusing power?

5. How can we apply the themes of judgment and hope for restoration in Ezekiel 19:3 to our personal lives and communities today? Consider connections to other scriptures that speak of repentance and restoration.

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 49:9
The imagery of a lion is also used in Jacob's blessing over Judah, where Judah is likened to a lion's cub, symbolizing strength and leadership.

2 Kings 23:31-34
Provides historical context for Jehoahaz's reign and his subsequent capture by Pharaoh Neco, illustrating the fulfillment of the prophetic imagery in Ezekiel.

Hosea 5:14
God describes Himself as a lion to Ephraim and Judah, indicating judgment and the consequences of their actions, similar to the devouring nature of the young lion in Ezekiel.