Ezekiel 28:24

For the people of Israel will no longer face a pricking brier or a painful thorn from all around them who treat them with contempt. Then they will know that I am the Lord GOD.'

Study Bible

For the house of Israel
This phrase refers to the collective people of Israel, God's chosen nation. In the Hebrew context, "house" (בֵּית, bayit) signifies not just a physical dwelling but a lineage or family. The "house of Israel" encompasses the entire nation, emphasizing their identity as a people set apart by God. Historically, Israel faced numerous adversities and captivities, yet they remained God's covenant people. This phrase reassures them of their unique relationship with God and His protective oversight.

there will no longer be a thorn to prick
The imagery of a "thorn" (קֹץ, qots) is potent in biblical literature, often symbolizing pain, irritation, or persistent trouble. In ancient agricultural societies, thorns were literal obstacles to cultivation and growth. Spiritually, they represent the trials and adversities that hinder the people of God. Here, God promises the removal of such hindrances, indicating a future time of peace and restoration for Israel, free from the harassment of hostile neighbors.

or a brier to irritate
Similar to thorns, "brier" (סִרְפַּד, sirpad) conveys the idea of something that causes discomfort or distress. The use of both "thorn" and "brier" underscores the completeness of God's promise to eliminate all forms of suffering and annoyance. This dual imagery highlights God's comprehensive plan to protect and bless His people, ensuring their well-being and spiritual prosperity.

among all their neighbors
This phrase situates the promise within a geopolitical context. Israel's neighbors historically included nations like the Philistines, Moabites, and Edomites, who often opposed and oppressed them. The promise that these neighbors will no longer be a source of trouble signifies a divine intervention in the political landscape, bringing about a time of peace and security for Israel.

who treated them with contempt
Contempt (בּוּז, buz) reflects disdain or scorn, attitudes that Israel frequently faced from surrounding nations. This phrase acknowledges the historical reality of Israel's suffering and humiliation at the hands of others. God's promise to remove such contempt is a profound assurance of His justice and vindication for His people, affirming their dignity and worth in His sight.

Then they will know that I am the Lord GOD
This concluding phrase is a powerful declaration of God's sovereignty and faithfulness. The recognition of God as "the Lord GOD" (אֲדֹנָי יְהוִה, Adonai Yahweh) emphasizes His ultimate authority and covenantal relationship with Israel. The phrase "they will know" (יָדַע, yada) implies an experiential understanding, suggesting that through these acts of deliverance and restoration, Israel will come to a deeper awareness of God's character and His unwavering commitment to His promises. This knowledge is not merely intellectual but transformative, leading to worship and obedience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. House of Israel
Refers to the collective people of Israel, God's chosen nation, who have experienced both judgment and restoration throughout biblical history.

2. Thorn and Briar
Metaphorical language used to describe the hostile nations surrounding Israel, causing them distress and suffering.

3. Neighbors
The surrounding nations that have historically been adversaries to Israel, often leading them into idolatry and conflict.

4. The Lord GOD
The sovereign and covenant-keeping God of Israel, who promises deliverance and vindication for His people.

5. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, who conveyed God's messages of judgment and hope to the Israelites.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Deliverance
God is in control of all nations and will ultimately deliver His people from their adversaries.

The Consequences of Disobedience
Israel's suffering was often a result of their disobedience and idolatry, reminding us of the importance of faithfulness to God.

Hope and Restoration
Despite past judgments, God promises restoration and peace for His people, offering hope for the future.

Recognizing God's Authority
The ultimate purpose of God's actions is that His people will know and acknowledge Him as the Lord.

Living in Peace with Neighbors
As believers, we are called to live at peace with those around us, trusting God to handle conflicts and adversities.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of thorns and briars in Ezekiel 28:24 relate to the challenges we face in our own lives today?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty at work in the world around us, similar to His dealings with Israel's neighbors?

3. How can the promise of restoration and peace in Ezekiel 28:24 encourage us in times of personal or communal distress?

4. What lessons can we learn from Israel's history of disobedience and God's subsequent discipline?

5. How can we apply the principle of living at peace with our neighbors, as seen in this passage, in our daily interactions and relationships?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 55:13
This verse also uses the imagery of thorns and briars, symbolizing the removal of curses and the establishment of peace and prosperity.

Numbers 33:55
Warns Israel about the consequences of not driving out the inhabitants of the land, who would become thorns in their sides.

2 Corinthians 12:7
Paul speaks of a "thorn in the flesh," which can be seen as a metaphor for persistent challenges or adversaries.

Hosea 2:6
Uses the imagery of thorns to describe God's discipline and the obstacles He places to guide His people back to Him.