Ezekiel 21:6

But you, son of man, groan! Groan before their eyes with a broken heart and bitter grief.

Study Bible

But you, son of man
The phrase "son of man" is a title used frequently in the book of Ezekiel, emphasizing the prophet's humanity and his role as a representative of the people. In Hebrew, "ben adam" underscores the connection between Ezekiel and the common human experience, highlighting his role as a mediator between God and Israel. This title also foreshadows the use of "Son of Man" in the New Testament, referring to Jesus Christ, who fully embodies both humanity and divinity.

groan!
The command to "groan" is a directive from God to Ezekiel, indicating a deep, visceral response to the impending judgment. The Hebrew word used here, "anach," conveys a sense of deep, audible lamentation. This groaning is not just a physical act but a spiritual expression of the weight of God's message. It reflects the prophet's empathy and the seriousness of the divine warning.

Groan before their eyes
Ezekiel is instructed to perform this act of groaning publicly, "before their eyes," serving as a visible sign to the people of Israel. This public display is meant to capture attention and provoke reflection. In the ancient Near Eastern context, prophets often used dramatic actions to convey God's messages, making the invisible spiritual realities visible and undeniable to the people.

with a broken heart
The phrase "with a broken heart" speaks to the depth of sorrow and compassion that Ezekiel is to embody. The Hebrew concept of the heart, "lev," is the center of emotion, thought, and will. A "broken heart" signifies profound distress and vulnerability, mirroring God's own grief over the people's sin and the coming judgment. It calls the audience to recognize the seriousness of their spiritual condition.

and bitter grief
"Bitter grief" further intensifies the emotional state Ezekiel is to display. The Hebrew word "mar" for "bitter" suggests an acutely painful experience, often associated with mourning and loss. This phrase underscores the severity of the situation and the depth of God's lament over the necessity of judgment. It serves as a call to repentance, urging the people to turn back to God with sincere hearts.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Son of Man
A title used frequently in Ezekiel, emphasizing his humanity and role as a representative of the people before God.

3. Israelites
The people of God who are in exile due to their disobedience and idolatry. They are the primary audience of Ezekiel's prophecies.

4. Babylon
The place of exile for the Israelites, representing both physical captivity and spiritual desolation.

5. God's Judgment
The overarching theme of this chapter, where God communicates His impending judgment on Jerusalem and the surrounding nations.

Teaching Points

The Role of the Prophet
Prophets are called to not only speak God's words but also to embody His emotions. Ezekiel's groaning is a physical manifestation of God's grief over sin.

The Weight of Sin
Sin leads to deep sorrow and brokenness, not only for those who commit it but also for those who witness its consequences. We must recognize the gravity of sin in our lives.

Empathy and Intercession
Like Ezekiel, believers are called to empathize with the lost and intercede for them. Our hearts should break for what breaks God's heart.

Public Witness
Ezekiel's public display of grief serves as a witness to others. Our lives should visibly reflect our faith and convictions, even in sorrow.

Hope in Judgment
While judgment is certain, it is also a call to repentance and restoration. God's ultimate desire is for His people to return to Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ezekiel's role as a "son of man" inform our understanding of his prophetic ministry and its relevance to us today?

2. In what ways can we, like Ezekiel, express genuine sorrow for the sins of our community or nation?

3. How do the themes of judgment and lament in Ezekiel 21:6 connect with the broader account of God's redemptive plan in the Bible?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure our lives are a public witness to God's truth and compassion?

5. How can we balance the message of God's judgment with the hope of His mercy and restoration in our conversations with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 9:1
Jeremiah also expresses deep sorrow for the sins and impending judgment on Israel, similar to Ezekiel's groaning.

Lamentations 1:16
Reflects the deep grief and lamentation over Jerusalem's destruction, paralleling Ezekiel's expression of sorrow.

Matthew 23:37
Jesus laments over Jerusalem, showing continuity in God's sorrow over His people's rebellion.