Ezekiel 40:1

In the twenty-fifth year of our exile, at the beginning of the year, on the tenth day of the month--in the fourteenth year after Jerusalem had been struck down--on that very day the hand of the LORD was upon me, and He took me there.

Study Bible

In the twenty-fifth year of our exile
This phrase marks a significant point in the timeline of Israel's history. The "twenty-fifth year" refers to the period of the Babylonian exile, a time of profound loss and reflection for the Israelites. The Hebrew word for "exile" (גָּלוּת, galut) conveys a sense of being uprooted and displaced, both physically and spiritually. This period was a time of judgment but also of hope, as God continued to speak to His people through prophets like Ezekiel, reminding them of His sovereignty and the promise of restoration.

at the beginning of the year
The phrase "beginning of the year" likely refers to the Jewish month of Nisan, which is significant as it marks the start of the religious calendar and is associated with the Passover, a time of deliverance and new beginnings. This timing underscores the theme of renewal and hope, suggesting that God is about to reveal something transformative to Ezekiel and, by extension, to His people.

on the tenth day of the month
The "tenth day" of Nisan is particularly noteworthy in Jewish tradition, as it is the day when the Passover lamb was selected (Exodus 12:3). This connection to the Passover highlights themes of sacrifice, redemption, and divine intervention. It suggests that the vision Ezekiel is about to receive is tied to God's redemptive plan for His people.

in the fourteenth year after the city had been taken
This phrase situates the vision in a historical context, referring to the fall of Jerusalem in 586 BC. The "fourteenth year" marks a period of reflection and mourning for the loss of the city and the temple. Yet, it also points to a time of anticipation for God's promised restoration. The historical context emphasizes the gravity of the vision and the hope for a future return to the land.

on that very day
The specificity of "that very day" underscores the importance of the timing of this revelation. It suggests divine intentionality and precision, indicating that God’s plans unfold according to His perfect timing. This phrase reassures believers of God's control over history and His faithfulness to His promises.

the hand of the LORD was upon me
The "hand of the LORD" is a powerful biblical motif indicating divine empowerment and guidance. In Hebrew, the word for "hand" (יָד, yad) often symbolizes strength and authority. This phrase signifies that Ezekiel is under God's direct influence, prepared to receive and communicate a divine message. It reassures readers of God's active involvement in the lives of His prophets and His people.

and He took me there
The phrase "He took me there" suggests a supernatural transportation or vision, where God brings Ezekiel to a specific place to reveal His message. This divine action highlights God's initiative in revealing His plans and purposes. It serves as a reminder that God is the ultimate guide, leading His people to understanding and insight, even in times of exile and uncertainty.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest, Ezekiel is the central figure receiving visions from God. His ministry occurs during the Babylonian exile.

2. The Exile
Refers to the Babylonian captivity of the Israelites, a significant period of judgment and reflection for the nation of Israel.

3. The City
This refers to Jerusalem, which had been captured and destroyed by the Babylonians fourteen years prior to this vision.

4. The Hand of the LORD
A phrase indicating divine intervention and guidance, showing that Ezekiel's vision is directly from God.

5. The Vision
This chapter begins a detailed vision of a new temple, symbolizing hope and restoration for Israel.

Teaching Points

God's Timing is Perfect
The vision comes at a specific time, showing that God’s plans unfold according to His perfect timing. Trust in God's timing in your own life, even when circumstances seem bleak.

Hope in Exile
Even in the midst of judgment and exile, God provides a vision of hope and restoration. In difficult times, focus on the hope and promises God has given.

Divine Guidance
The "hand of the LORD" upon Ezekiel signifies divine guidance. Seek God's guidance in your daily life through prayer and scripture.

Restoration and Renewal
The vision of a new temple symbolizes spiritual renewal. Reflect on areas in your life that need restoration and seek God’s transformative power.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the timing of Ezekiel's vision (25th year of exile) relate to the concept of Jubilee, and what does this signify for the Israelites?

2. In what ways can we see God's hand guiding us today, similar to how He guided Ezekiel?

3. How does the vision of a new temple in Ezekiel 40 inspire hope for restoration in your personal life or community?

4. Compare the vision in Ezekiel 40 with the description of the new Jerusalem in Revelation 21. What similarities and differences do you notice, and what do they teach us about God's ultimate plan?

5. Reflect on a time when you felt "in exile" or distant from God. How did you experience His restoration and renewal during that period?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 25
The concept of the Jubilee year, which occurs every 50 years, is a time of restoration and freedom. Ezekiel's vision comes in the 25th year of exile, symbolizing a midpoint of hope and future restoration.

2 Kings 25
Describes the fall of Jerusalem, providing historical context for the exile and the significance of Ezekiel's vision of restoration.

Revelation 21
The vision of a new Jerusalem in Revelation parallels Ezekiel's vision, both symbolizing God's ultimate plan for restoration and dwelling with His people.