Ezekiel 35:6

therefore as surely as I live, declares the Lord GOD, I will give you over to bloodshed and it will pursue you. Since you did not hate bloodshed, it will pursue you.

Study Bible

therefore as surely as I live
This phrase is a solemn oath from God, emphasizing the certainty and seriousness of His declaration. The Hebrew word for "live" (חַי, chai) is often used in oaths, underscoring God's eternal and unchanging nature. In the context of ancient Near Eastern culture, an oath by one's life was the most binding form of promise. Here, it signifies God's unwavering commitment to justice and His active role in the unfolding of His divine plan.

declares the Lord GOD
The phrase "declares the Lord GOD" is a powerful assertion of divine authority. The Hebrew term for "declares" (נְאֻם, ne'um) is often used in prophetic literature to introduce a direct statement from God. "Lord GOD" combines the sacred name of God, YHWH, with the title Adonai, emphasizing His sovereignty and ultimate authority over all creation. This declaration assures the reader of the divine origin and certainty of the message.

I will destine you for blood
The phrase "I will destine you for blood" indicates a divine decree of judgment. The Hebrew root for "destine" (עָשָׂה, asah) implies an active determination or appointment. "Blood" (דָּם, dam) in this context symbolizes violence and death. Historically, this reflects God's judgment on Edom for their perpetual enmity and violence against Israel. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of living in opposition to God's will and the inevitable justice that follows.

and bloodshed will pursue you
The repetition of "bloodshed" emphasizes the certainty and severity of the judgment. The Hebrew word for "pursue" (רָדַף, radaph) conveys the idea of relentless pursuit, as if bloodshed itself is an avenger. This imagery suggests that the violence Edom perpetuated will return upon them, illustrating the biblical principle of reaping what one sows. It serves as a warning against the destructive cycle of violence and the importance of seeking peace and reconciliation.

Since you did not hate bloodshed
This phrase highlights the moral failure of Edom. The Hebrew word for "hate" (שָׂנֵא, sane) implies a strong aversion or rejection. By not hating bloodshed, Edom is portrayed as complicit in violence and injustice. This reflects a broader biblical theme that God's people are called to love justice and mercy, and to reject violence and oppression. It challenges readers to examine their own attitudes towards violence and to align themselves with God's values.

it will pursue you
The repetition of "it will pursue you" reinforces the inevitability of divine justice. The relentless pursuit of bloodshed serves as a metaphor for the inescapable consequences of sin. In the historical context, this prophecy was fulfilled as Edom faced destruction and desolation. For contemporary readers, it serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of living contrary to God's will and the importance of repentance and righteousness.

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, the descendants of Esau. It symbolizes the perpetual enmity between Edom and Israel.

3. The Lord GOD
The sovereign and just God who declares judgment against Edom for their perpetual hostility and violence against Israel.

4. Edomites
The descendants of Esau, who harbored animosity towards the Israelites, their kin through Jacob.

5. Bloodshed
Represents violence and hostility, which Edom is accused of perpetuating against Israel.

Teaching Points

God's Justice is Inevitable
The passage underscores that God's justice will prevail against those who perpetuate violence and hostility. Believers are reminded that God sees all and will act in His time.

The Consequences of Hatred
Edom's failure to reject bloodshed led to their own destruction. Christians are called to love and peace, avoiding the destructive path of hatred.

The Importance of Reconciliation
The historical enmity between Edom and Israel serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unresolved conflict. Believers are encouraged to seek reconciliation and peace.

God's Sovereignty
The declaration "as surely as I live" emphasizes God's unchanging nature and His ultimate control over nations and history.

Reflecting on Our Actions
Just as Edom faced consequences for their actions, believers are urged to reflect on their own lives, ensuring they align with God's will and avoid paths that lead to spiritual destruction.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the historical conflict between Jacob and Esau help us understand the judgment pronounced in Ezekiel 35:6?

2. In what ways can unresolved conflict and bitterness affect our spiritual lives, as seen in the relationship between Edom and Israel?

3. How does the concept of God's inevitable justice provide comfort or challenge in your current circumstances?

4. What steps can you take to ensure that you are pursuing peace rather than harboring enmity in your relationships?

5. How can the themes of justice and reconciliation in Ezekiel 35:6 be applied to modern-day conflicts, both personal and global?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 27
The origin of the enmity between Jacob (Israel) and Esau (Edom) is rooted in their familial conflict, which sets the stage for the ongoing hostility.

Obadiah 1
This book also prophesies against Edom, highlighting their pride and violence against Israel, similar to the themes in Ezekiel 35.

Psalm 137
Reflects the Israelites' lament and desire for justice against Edom, who rejoiced over Jerusalem's downfall.

Hebrews 12
Warns against bitterness and enmity, using Esau as an example of what to avoid in Christian conduct.