Ezekiel 21:17

I too will strike My hands together, and I will satisfy My wrath.' I, the LORD, have spoken."

Study Bible

I too will strike My hands together
This phrase signifies a gesture of finality and determination. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, striking hands together was often a sign of sealing a deal or expressing strong emotion, such as anger or resolve. The Hebrew root word for "strike" is "נָכָה" (nakah), which can mean to smite or to clap. Here, it symbolizes God's decisive action and the certainty of His judgment. The imagery of God striking His hands together conveys the seriousness of the impending judgment on Israel, emphasizing that it is not just a passive declaration but an active, deliberate decision by God.

and My wrath will subside
The Hebrew word for "wrath" is "חֵמָה" (chemah), which denotes intense anger or fury. This phrase indicates that God's wrath, once fully expressed, will be appeased or calmed. The subsiding of God's wrath suggests a completion of His righteous judgment, after which there is a return to a state of peace. It reflects the biblical principle that God's anger is not eternal but serves a purpose in His divine justice. The subsiding of wrath also points to the hope of restoration and reconciliation once the judgment has been fulfilled.

I, the LORD, have spoken
This declaration underscores the authority and certainty of God's word. The use of "I, the LORD" (YHWH) emphasizes His sovereignty and the unchangeable nature of His pronouncements. In the Hebrew text, "spoken" is derived from the root "דָּבַר" (dabar), which means to speak or declare. This phrase assures the listener that what has been declared will undoubtedly come to pass, as it is spoken by the ultimate authority, God Himself. It serves as a reminder of the power and reliability of God's word, encouraging believers to trust in His promises and judgments.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the Israelites during their exile in Babylon. He is known for his vivid visions and symbolic actions.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who is speaking through Ezekiel. He is expressing His judgment and eventual subsiding of wrath.

3. Israel
The nation to whom Ezekiel is prophesying. They are in exile due to their disobedience and idolatry.

4. Babylon
The empire that has taken Israel into captivity. It serves as the instrument of God's judgment against Israel.

5. Judgment
The event of God's wrath being executed upon Israel for their sins, as well as the eventual cessation of that wrath.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God is in control of all events, including the execution and cessation of His wrath. His actions are purposeful and just.

The Seriousness of Sin
Sin provokes God's wrath, and His judgment is a response to human disobedience. This should lead us to repentance and a desire to live righteously.

The Hope of Mercy
Even in judgment, there is hope. God's wrath subsiding indicates His willingness to restore and forgive those who turn back to Him.

The Certainty of God's Word
When God speaks, it is certain to come to pass. His declarations through the prophets are trustworthy and should be heeded.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets like Ezekiel are God's messengers, delivering His word to guide, warn, and encourage His people. We should value and study their messages.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's sovereignty in judgment affect your view of current world events?

2. In what ways can you identify with Israel's disobedience, and how can you seek repentance in your own life?

3. How does the concept of God's wrath subsiding give you hope in your personal spiritual journey?

4. What steps can you take to ensure that you are heeding God's word as delivered through the prophets and scripture?

5. How can you apply the lessons from Ezekiel 21:17 to encourage others in their faith, especially those who may feel under God's judgment?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 48:9
This verse speaks of God deferring His anger for His name's sake, similar to the subsiding of wrath mentioned in Ezekiel 21:17.

Psalm 78:38
Highlights God's compassion and His tendency to restrain His anger, which parallels the idea of God's wrath subsiding.

Revelation 15:1
Discusses the completion of God's wrath, providing a New Testament perspective on the fulfillment of divine judgment.