Ezekiel 5:16

When I shower you with the deadly arrows of famine and destruction that I will send to destroy you, I will intensify the famine against you and cut off your supply of food.

Study Bible

When I shower you
The phrase "When I shower you" suggests an overwhelming and inescapable action. In the Hebrew context, the word for "shower" can imply a deluge or a pouring out, often used in the context of divine judgment. This imagery evokes the idea of God's sovereign control over nature and His ability to use it as an instrument of judgment. Historically, the Israelites understood such acts as direct interventions from God, reminding them of His power and their dependence on His mercy.

deadly arrows of famine
The "deadly arrows of famine" are a vivid metaphor. In ancient warfare, arrows were a common weapon, symbolizing precision and inevitability. Here, famine is personified as an arrow, indicating that it is both a targeted and a lethal judgment from God. The Hebrew word for "arrows" often conveys the idea of something that is sent forth with purpose. This reflects the biblical theme that God’s judgments are not random but are purposeful, aiming to bring about repentance and restoration.

to destroy you
The phrase "to destroy you" underscores the severity of the judgment. The Hebrew root for "destroy" often implies complete ruin or desolation. This reflects the seriousness of Israel's sin and the extent of the consequences they face. In the broader biblical narrative, destruction is often a precursor to renewal, suggesting that even in judgment, God’s ultimate goal is to bring about a new beginning for His people.

I will intensify the famine against you
"I will intensify the famine against you" indicates an escalation of the judgment. The Hebrew concept of intensification here suggests a deliberate increase in severity. This reflects the biblical principle that God’s judgments are progressive, often increasing in intensity to awaken His people to their need for repentance. Historically, famines were devastating events that tested the faith and resilience of the people, often leading them to cry out to God for deliverance.

and cut off your supply of food
The phrase "and cut off your supply of food" highlights the complete dependency of the people on God for their sustenance. In the ancient Near East, food supply was a constant concern, and any disruption was catastrophic. The Hebrew word for "cut off" implies a severing or breaking, indicating a total cessation. This serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of turning away from God, who is the ultimate provider. In the scriptural context, such a cutting off is often a call to return to reliance on God, who alone can restore and provide abundantly.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God, called to deliver messages of judgment and hope to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile.

2. Israelites
The people of God who are in exile due to their disobedience and idolatry.

3. Famine
A severe shortage of food, used here as a metaphor for God's judgment on the people for their sins.

4. Babylonian Exile
The period when the Israelites were taken captive by Babylon, serving as the backdrop for Ezekiel's prophecies.

5. Jerusalem
The city that is under judgment, representing the spiritual and physical center of the Israelites' identity.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Sin
Sin has real consequences, both spiritually and physically. The famine represents the severe impact of turning away from God.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God is in control, even in judgment. The "deadly arrows of famine" are sent by God, showing His authority over creation and history.

Call to Repentance
The purpose of judgment is not merely punishment but to lead people back to God. It is a call to examine our lives and repent.

Dependence on God
The cutting off of bread supply reminds us of our dependence on God for our daily needs. It challenges us to trust Him in times of scarcity.

Hope Beyond Judgment
While the immediate context is judgment, the broader account of Scripture points to restoration and hope for those who turn back to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of "deadly arrows of famine" in Ezekiel 5:16 help us understand the seriousness of God's judgment?

2. In what ways does the concept of famine as a consequence of disobedience appear in other parts of the Bible, and what can we learn from these connections?

3. How can we apply the lesson of dependence on God for our daily needs in our modern context?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that we are living in obedience to God, avoiding the spiritual "famine" that comes from turning away from Him?

5. How does the message of hope and restoration in the broader account of Scripture encourage us when we face times of judgment or discipline in our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 26
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, including famine as a consequence of turning away from God.

Deuteronomy 28
Similar to Leviticus, it details the blessings and curses, emphasizing the covenant relationship between God and Israel.

Jeremiah 24
Jeremiah also speaks of the consequences of disobedience, including famine, as part of God's judgment.

Revelation 6
The imagery of famine as a form of divine judgment is echoed in the apocalyptic visions of Revelation.