Ezekiel 25:14

I will take My vengeance on Edom by the hand of My people Israel, and they will deal with Edom according to My anger and wrath. Then they will know My vengeance, declares the Lord GOD.'

Study Bible

I will take vengeance
The Hebrew word for "vengeance" is "naqam," which implies a retributive justice that is divinely sanctioned. In the context of the Old Testament, vengeance is not merely about human emotions but about restoring divine order. God's vengeance is a response to the injustices and sins committed by Edom against Israel. This phrase underscores the sovereignty of God in executing justice, reminding us that ultimate justice belongs to Him.

on Edom
Edom, the descendants of Esau, had a long-standing enmity with Israel, the descendants of Jacob. Historically, Edom often opposed Israel, and their animosity is well-documented in the Scriptures. The mention of Edom here is significant as it represents not just a nation but a symbol of opposition to God's people. This highlights the theme of divine retribution against those who oppose God's covenant community.

by the hand of My people Israel
This phrase indicates that God will use Israel as His instrument of judgment. The Hebrew word "yad" (hand) often symbolizes power and action. By using Israel, God reaffirms His covenant relationship with them, showing that they are His chosen people through whom He will enact His will. This also serves as a reminder of the responsibility and privilege of being God's people, called to execute His justice.

and they will deal with Edom
The phrase suggests a direct and active role for Israel in carrying out God's judgment. The Hebrew verb "asah" (to deal) implies action and execution. This reflects the idea that God's people are not passive recipients of His promises but active participants in His divine plan. It also serves as a warning to the nations that oppose God's purposes.

according to My anger and wrath
The words "anger" (Hebrew: "aph") and "wrath" (Hebrew: "chemah") convey the intensity of God's response to sin and injustice. These terms emphasize that God's actions are not arbitrary but are a measured response to the moral and spiritual failures of Edom. This highlights the holiness of God, who cannot tolerate sin and will act to uphold His righteousness.

they will know My vengeance
The phrase "they will know" (Hebrew: "yada") implies an experiential understanding. It is not merely intellectual but involves a deep, personal realization of God's power and justice. This serves as a sobering reminder that God's actions are meant to lead to a recognition of His sovereignty and righteousness.

declares the Lord GOD
The use of "declares" (Hebrew: "ne'um") signifies a solemn pronouncement. The title "Lord GOD" (Hebrew: "Adonai Yahweh") underscores the authority and majesty of God. This closing affirmation assures the certainty of the prophecy, reminding us that God's word is faithful and true. It is a call to trust in His promises and to live in reverence of His divine authority.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who ministered to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. He conveyed God's messages of judgment and hope.

2. Edom
A nation descended from Esau, Jacob's brother. Historically, Edom had a contentious relationship with Israel, often opposing them.

3. Israel
The chosen people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. In this context, they are the instrument of God's judgment against Edom.

4. The Lord GOD
The sovereign and just God who declares His intentions and executes His plans through His people.

5. Vengeance
The divine retribution that God promises to execute against Edom for their actions against Israel.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God uses nations and people as instruments of His justice. We must recognize His ultimate authority over all events.

Historical Enmity and Divine Justice
The longstanding conflict between Edom and Israel serves as a reminder that God sees and will address injustices in His timing.

Trust in God's Vengeance
Believers are called to trust in God's perfect justice rather than seeking personal revenge. This requires faith in His righteous character.

The Role of God's People
Israel's role as an instrument of God's vengeance highlights the responsibility of God's people to act according to His will and purposes.

Understanding God's Wrath
God's wrath is a response to sin and injustice. It is a part of His holy nature and serves to uphold His righteousness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the historical relationship between Israel and Edom help us understand the context of Ezekiel 25:14?

2. In what ways does the concept of divine vengeance challenge or comfort you in your personal life?

3. How can we apply the principle of leaving vengeance to God in our daily interactions and conflicts?

4. What does this passage teach us about God's character, particularly His justice and wrath?

5. How can we, as God's people today, ensure that we are acting as instruments of His will and not our own desires?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 25:23
This verse speaks of the struggle between Jacob and Esau, the forefathers of Israel and Edom, respectively. It sets the stage for the historical enmity between the two nations.

Obadiah 1:10-14
This passage details Edom's violence against Israel and God's promise of judgment, reinforcing the theme of divine retribution.

Romans 12:19
Paul instructs believers to leave vengeance to God, echoing the principle that God is the ultimate judge and avenger.