Ezekiel 35:11

therefore as surely as I live, declares the Lord GOD, I will treat you according to the anger and jealousy you showed in your hatred against them, and I will make Myself known among them when I judge you.

Study Bible

therefore as surely as I live
This phrase underscores the certainty and solemnity of God's declaration. The Hebrew root for "live" (חָיָה, chayah) conveys the idea of life and existence, emphasizing God's eternal and unchanging nature. In the biblical context, when God swears by His own life, it is the most binding and serious oath, underscoring the inevitability of His actions. This reflects God's sovereignty and the assurance that His words will come to pass.

declares the Lord GOD
The phrase "declares the Lord GOD" is a formal pronouncement, often used by prophets to introduce a divine message. The Hebrew term for "Lord GOD" is "Adonai Yahweh," combining the sovereign title "Adonai" with the personal name of God, "Yahweh." This combination highlights both God's authority and His covenant relationship with Israel. It serves as a reminder of God's ultimate authority and His personal involvement in the affairs of nations.

I will treat you according to the anger and jealousy
Here, God promises to respond to Edom's actions with a measure of divine retribution. The Hebrew words for "anger" (אַף, aph) and "jealousy" (קִנְאָה, qinah) are often associated with God's righteous indignation and zeal for His people. Historically, Edom had harbored hostility towards Israel, and this phrase indicates that God will mirror their own emotions back upon them, demonstrating His justice and the principle of reaping what one sows.

you showed in your hatred of them
The "hatred" (שִׂנְאָה, sin'ah) mentioned here refers to Edom's longstanding enmity towards Israel. This animosity is well-documented in the historical and scriptural context, as Edom, descended from Esau, often opposed Israel, descended from Jacob. This phrase highlights the moral accountability of Edom for their actions and attitudes, which were contrary to God's will for peace and brotherhood among nations.

And I will make Myself known among them
God's intention to "make Myself known" (נָכַר, nakar) signifies a revelation of His character and power. This is not just a display of judgment but also an opportunity for the nations to recognize God's sovereignty and righteousness. In the broader biblical narrative, God's judgments often serve as a means to reveal His glory and to call people to acknowledge Him as the one true God.

when I judge you
The act of judgment (שָׁפַט, shaphat) is central to God's dealings with nations. In the biblical context, judgment is not merely punitive but also corrective, aiming to restore divine order and justice. This phrase assures that God's judgment is both inevitable and purposeful, serving as a means to uphold His holiness and to vindicate His people. It reflects the biblical theme that God is a righteous judge who will ultimately hold all nations accountable for their actions.

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 restoration.

2. Mount Seir
A mountainous region associated with Edom, representing the Edomites, who were descendants of Esau and often hostile to Israel.

3. The Lord GOD
The sovereign and just God of Israel, who declares His intentions and judgments.

4. Edomites
The people of Edom, who harbored perpetual enmity against Israel and rejoiced over their misfortunes.

5. Israelites
God's chosen people, who were often at odds with the Edomites and suffered from their hostility.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Justice
God is sovereign and just, and He will address the wrongs committed against His people. Believers can trust in His righteous judgment.

The Consequences of Hatred
The anger and jealousy of the Edomites led to their downfall. Hatred and malice have destructive consequences, both spiritually and relationally.

God's Faithfulness to His People
Despite Israel's struggles, God remains faithful and will vindicate His people. This assurance is a source of hope for believers facing opposition.

The Importance of Repentance
The Edomites' failure to repent led to their judgment. Believers are called to examine their hearts and turn from sin to avoid similar consequences.

God's Revelation Through Judgment
God's judgments serve to reveal His character and power. Believers should seek to understand and know God more deeply through His actions in history.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the historical enmity between Edom and Israel help us understand the context of Ezekiel 35:11?

2. In what ways does God's judgment of Edom demonstrate His justice and sovereignty?

3. How can we apply the lesson of leaving vengeance to God in our personal conflicts, as seen in Romans 12:19?

4. What are some modern-day examples of anger and jealousy leading to destructive outcomes, and how can we guard against these in our lives?

5. How does understanding God's faithfulness to Israel encourage us in our own faith journey, especially when facing adversity?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Obadiah 1
This book also addresses the judgment against Edom for their pride and hostility towards Israel, reinforcing the themes found in Ezekiel 35.

Psalm 137
Reflects the Israelites' lament and remembrance of Edom's actions during Jerusalem's fall, highlighting the historical enmity.

Genesis 27
The origin of the conflict between Jacob (Israel) and Esau (Edom), providing background to the animosity addressed in Ezekiel 35.

Romans 12:19
Encourages believers to leave vengeance to God, aligning with the theme of divine justice in Ezekiel 35:11.