Ezekiel 21:9

"Son of man, prophesy and tell them that this is what the Lord says: 'A sword, a sword, sharpened and polished--

Study Bible

Son of man
This phrase is a frequent designation for Ezekiel, emphasizing his humanity and role as a representative of the people. In Hebrew, "ben adam" underscores the prophet's connection to mankind, highlighting his role as a mediator between God and Israel. It serves as a reminder of the prophet's humble position and the divine authority behind his message.

prophesy
The Hebrew word "naba" means to speak or sing by inspiration, indicating that Ezekiel's words are not his own but are divinely inspired. This command to prophesy underscores the urgency and importance of the message, as it comes directly from God. It is a call to deliver a message of warning and judgment, reflecting the seriousness of the situation.

and say
This phrase emphasizes the act of speaking God's words. It is a directive for Ezekiel to vocalize the divine message, ensuring that the people hear and understand the impending judgment. The repetition of the command to speak highlights the necessity of clear communication of God's will.

This is what the Lord says
This declaration asserts the divine origin of the message. The Hebrew "koh amar Adonai" is a formulaic introduction to prophetic oracles, affirming that the words are not Ezekiel's but God's. It establishes the authority and authenticity of the prophecy, demanding attention and reverence from the listeners.

A sword, a sword
The repetition of "sword" in Hebrew ("chereb, chereb") serves to intensify the image of impending judgment and destruction. The sword is a common biblical symbol of divine judgment and warfare, representing the execution of God's justice. This imagery would have been particularly poignant for the original audience, who understood the sword as a tool of both protection and devastation.

sharpened and polished
These terms describe the preparation and readiness of the sword for use. "Sharpened" (Hebrew "chadad") suggests precision and effectiveness, while "polished" (Hebrew "marat") implies a gleaming, fearsome appearance. Together, they convey the inevitability and thoroughness of God's judgment. The imagery of a prepared sword serves as a stark warning to the people of Israel, urging them to recognize the seriousness of their situation and the certainty of divine retribution.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who ministered to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. He is the author of the book of Ezekiel and is known for his vivid visions and symbolic actions.

2. Babylon
The empire that conquered Jerusalem and took the Israelites into exile. It serves as the backdrop for much of Ezekiel's prophetic ministry.

3. Sword
A symbol of judgment and warfare. In Ezekiel 21:9, the sword represents God's impending judgment on Jerusalem and the surrounding nations.

Teaching Points

The Certainty of God's Judgment
God's judgment is inevitable and precise, as symbolized by the sharpened sword. Believers should live with an awareness of God's holiness and justice.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets like Ezekiel are God's messengers, tasked with delivering difficult truths. We should be open to receiving and heeding God's messages, even when they challenge us.

The Call to Repentance
The imagery of the sword serves as a warning to turn from sin. It is a call for self-examination and repentance, urging us to align our lives with God's will.

The Power of God's Word
Just as the sword is sharp and effective, so is God's Word. It has the power to convict, correct, and guide us in righteousness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the sword in Ezekiel 21:9 help us understand the nature of God's judgment?

2. In what ways can we see the role of a prophet in today's world, and how should we respond to prophetic messages?

3. How does the concept of God's judgment in Ezekiel 21:9 relate to the New Testament understanding of Christ's return and final judgment?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure that we are living in alignment with God's will, in light of the call to repentance?

5. How can we use the power of God's Word, as symbolized by the sword, to address challenges and make decisions in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 4:12
This verse describes the Word of God as a sharp, double-edged sword, drawing a parallel to the sword in Ezekiel 21:9 as an instrument of divine judgment and discernment.

Revelation 19:15
This passage depicts Christ wielding a sharp sword, symbolizing His authority to execute judgment, similar to the imagery in Ezekiel.

Isaiah 34:5-6
These verses also use the imagery of a sword to describe God's judgment against the nations, reinforcing the theme of divine retribution.