Ezekiel 34:13

I will bring them out from the peoples, gather them from the countries, and bring them into their own land. I will feed them on the mountains of Israel, in the ravines, and in all the settlements of the land.

Study Bible

I will bring them out from the peoples
This phrase signifies God's promise of deliverance and restoration. The Hebrew root for "bring out" is "yatsa," which often denotes a powerful act of liberation, reminiscent of the Exodus when God brought the Israelites out of Egypt. Historically, this reflects God's ongoing commitment to His covenant people, ensuring their separation from pagan influences and their return to a place of spiritual purity and identity.

gather them from the countries
The word "gather" comes from the Hebrew "qabats," which implies a careful and intentional collection. This gathering is not random but a deliberate act of divine will. The historical context here is the Babylonian exile, where the Israelites were scattered across various nations. This promise reassures them of God's sovereignty and His ability to reunite His people, emphasizing His role as a shepherd who seeks out every lost sheep.

bring them into their own land
The phrase "their own land" underscores the covenantal promise of the land of Israel to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The Hebrew word for "land" is "eretz," which is not just a physical territory but a place of divine promise and blessing. This return to their land symbolizes restoration and fulfillment of God's promises, a theme that resonates throughout the prophetic literature.

I will pasture them on the mountains of Israel
"Pasture" in Hebrew is "ra'ah," which means to tend or shepherd. This imagery of God as a shepherd is deeply rooted in the biblical tradition, portraying His care, guidance, and provision. The "mountains of Israel" are significant as they represent the high places of spiritual encounter and divine revelation. This phrase assures the people of God's nurturing presence and His provision for their needs.

in the ravines
The mention of "ravines" highlights God's comprehensive care, reaching even into the low and difficult places. The Hebrew word "nachal" can mean a wadi or a valley, often associated with challenges or trials. This indicates that God's shepherding extends to every aspect of life, providing sustenance and protection even in the most challenging circumstances.

and in all the settlements of the land
This phrase emphasizes the totality of God's promise. "Settlements" in Hebrew is "moshav," referring to inhabited places. God's care is not limited to specific areas but encompasses the entire land, ensuring that every part of His people's lives is under His watchful eye. This comprehensive promise of restoration and care reflects God's omnipresence and His intimate involvement in the lives of His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. God (Yahweh)
The speaker in this verse, promising to gather His people.

2. Israelites
The people whom God promises to gather and bring back to their land.

3. Mountains of Israel
Symbolic of the homeland where God will bring His people.

4. Nations/Countries
Represents the places where the Israelites have been scattered.

5. Pasture
Symbolizes provision, care, and restoration by God.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness
God is faithful to His promises. Just as He promised to gather Israel, He is faithful to fulfill His promises to us today.

Divine Restoration
God is in the business of restoration. He not only gathers His people but also restores them to their rightful place.

Shepherd Imagery
The imagery of God as a shepherd highlights His personal care and guidance. We can trust Him to lead us to places of safety and provision.

Hope for the Dispersed
For those who feel lost or scattered, this verse offers hope that God sees them and will bring them back to a place of belonging.

Community and Belonging
God’s gathering of His people emphasizes the importance of community and belonging in the Christian life.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the promise of God gathering His people in Ezekiel 34:13 reflect His character and faithfulness?

2. In what ways can the imagery of God as a shepherd provide comfort in your current life situation?

3. How does the theme of restoration in Ezekiel 34:13 connect with the New Testament understanding of salvation and redemption?

4. What are some practical ways you can contribute to building a sense of community and belonging within your church or local community?

5. Reflect on a time when you felt scattered or lost. How did you experience God's gathering and restoration in that situation?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 23:3
This verse also speaks of God gathering His people from all the lands where they have been scattered, emphasizing His role as a shepherd.

John 10:14-16
Jesus refers to Himself as the Good Shepherd, who knows His sheep and brings them together, echoing the gathering theme.

Psalm 23
The imagery of God as a shepherd who provides and cares for His flock is a recurring theme throughout Scripture.

Isaiah 40:11
Describes God as a shepherd who gathers the lambs in His arms, further illustrating His care and protection.