Ezekiel 35:3

and declare that this is what the Lord GOD says: Behold, I am against you, O Mount Seir. I will stretch out My hand against you and make you a desolate waste.

Study Bible

and declare that this is what the Lord GOD says
The phrase emphasizes the authority and divine origin of the message. The Hebrew word for "declare" is "נָבָא" (naba), which means to prophesy or speak by divine inspiration. This underscores the role of Ezekiel as a prophet, a mouthpiece for God. The title "Lord GOD" combines "Adonai" and "YHWH," highlighting God's sovereignty and covenantal relationship with Israel. This introduction sets the tone for a message of judgment, reminding the audience of God's ultimate authority and the seriousness of His pronouncements.

Behold, I am against you
The word "Behold" (Hebrew: "הִנֵּה" - hinneh) serves as a call to attention, indicating the importance and immediacy of the message. "I am against you" is a direct and personal declaration of opposition from God. This phrase is significant in the prophetic literature, often used to announce divine judgment. It conveys the gravity of the situation for Mount Seir, representing the Edomites, who were long-standing adversaries of Israel. The personal nature of God's opposition underscores the seriousness of their transgressions.

O Mount Seir
Mount Seir is a geographical region associated with the Edomites, descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother. The mention of Mount Seir is symbolic, representing the nation of Edom. Historically, the Edomites had a tumultuous relationship with Israel, often characterized by hostility and conflict. This reference is not just to a physical location but to a people who have opposed God's chosen nation. The historical enmity between Edom and Israel is a backdrop for understanding the reasons for divine judgment.

and I will stretch out My hand against you
The phrase "stretch out My hand" is a common biblical metaphor for divine intervention, often associated with judgment or deliverance. In this context, it signifies God's active role in bringing about the downfall of Edom. The imagery of God's hand conveys power and authority, emphasizing that the impending desolation is a direct result of divine action. This expression reassures the faithful of God's control over nations and His commitment to justice.

and make you a desolate waste
The terms "desolate" and "waste" (Hebrew: "שְׁמָמָה" - shemamah) describe utter devastation and ruin. This prophecy foretells the complete destruction of Edom, leaving it uninhabitable. The use of such strong language highlights the severity of Edom's sins and the certainty of God's judgment. Historically, Edom's downfall serves as a testament to the fulfillment of prophetic words and a warning to other nations. It reflects the biblical theme that those who oppose God's people and purposes will ultimately face His wrath.

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 serves as God's mouthpiece in delivering messages of judgment and hope.

2. Mount Seir
A mountainous region associated with the Edomites, descendants of Esau. It symbolizes the nation of Edom, which had a long-standing enmity with Israel.

3. The Lord GOD
The sovereign and covenant-keeping God of Israel, who speaks through Ezekiel to pronounce judgment on Edom for their hostility towards His people.

4. Edomites
The descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother, who often opposed Israel. Their animosity towards Israel is a recurring theme in the Old Testament.

5. Judgment
The divine retribution pronounced by God against Mount Seir (Edom) for their actions against Israel.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God is sovereign over all nations and peoples. His judgments are just and reflect His holiness and righteousness.

The Consequences of Enmity Against God's People
Hostility towards God's chosen people invites divine judgment. This serves as a warning against harboring animosity and acting unjustly.

The Certainty of God's Promises
God's declarations, whether of judgment or blessing, are certain and will come to pass. Believers can trust in His word.

The Importance of Reconciliation
The longstanding enmity between Edom and Israel highlights the need for reconciliation and peace, which is a central theme in the New Testament.

Reflecting on Our Own Attitudes
This passage encourages self-examination of our attitudes towards others, especially those we may consider adversaries.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the historical enmity between Edom and Israel help us understand the context of God's judgment in Ezekiel 35:3?

2. In what ways does the prophecy against Mount Seir reflect God's justice and sovereignty?

3. How can we apply the lessons from God's judgment on Edom to our own relationships and attitudes towards others?

4. What other biblical examples of divine judgment can we find, and how do they reinforce the message of Ezekiel 35:3?

5. How does the theme of reconciliation in the New Testament provide a contrast to the judgment pronounced in Ezekiel 35:3, and what practical steps can we take to promote peace in our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 36
Provides the genealogy of Esau, establishing the origins of the Edomites and their connection to Mount Seir.

Obadiah 1
A prophecy against Edom, highlighting their pride and violence against Israel, which parallels the judgment in Ezekiel 35.

Psalm 137:7
Reflects on Edom's role in the destruction of Jerusalem, calling for divine justice against them.

Isaiah 34
Describes God's judgment against nations, including Edom, emphasizing the theme of divine retribution.