Ezekiel 6:2

"Son of man, set your face against the mountains of Israel and prophesy against them.

Study Bible

Son of man
This phrase is a frequent designation for Ezekiel, used over 90 times in the book. In Hebrew, it is "ben adam," which literally means "son of Adam" or "son of humanity." This term emphasizes Ezekiel's humanity and his role as a representative of the people. It underscores the humility and frailty of the prophet, contrasting with the divine messages he is tasked to deliver. In a broader biblical context, "Son of Man" is also a messianic title used by Jesus in the New Testament, highlighting both His humanity and His divine mission.

set your face
The Hebrew phrase "sim panim" implies a determined and resolute action. It suggests a steadfastness and unwavering focus on the task at hand. In the context of prophetic literature, setting one's face against something indicates a divine mandate to confront and challenge. This phrase conveys the seriousness and gravity of the message Ezekiel is about to deliver, as he is called to confront the idolatry and unfaithfulness of Israel.

against the mountains of Israel
The mountains of Israel are significant both geographically and spiritually. Geographically, they refer to the high places where idolatrous practices were often conducted. Spiritually, mountains in biblical literature often symbolize places of encounter with God, such as Mount Sinai or Mount Zion. However, in this context, they represent the high places of idolatry and false worship that have led Israel astray. The mountains are personified as recipients of judgment, highlighting the pervasive nature of Israel's unfaithfulness.

and prophesy against them
The act of prophesying "against" indicates a message of judgment and warning. The Hebrew word for prophesy, "naba," involves speaking forth a message from God, often with the connotation of divine inspiration and authority. Ezekiel's role is to be the mouthpiece of God, delivering a message that calls for repentance and warns of impending judgment. This phrase underscores the seriousness of Israel's sin and the urgent need for them to return to the covenantal faithfulness expected by God.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Mountains of Israel
Symbolic of the high places where idolatry was practiced, representing the spiritual apostasy of the nation.

3. Prophecy
A divine message delivered by a prophet, often concerning judgment or future events.

4. Israel
The chosen people of God, who were in a covenant relationship with Him but had turned to idolatry and disobedience.

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

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Idolatry
Idolatry is not just the worship of physical idols but anything that takes the place of God in our lives. We must examine our hearts for modern-day idols.

God's Righteous Judgment
God's judgment is a response to persistent disobedience and unfaithfulness. It serves as a call to repentance and a return to covenant faithfulness.

The Role of the Prophet
Prophets are called to speak truth, even when it is difficult. We are also called to stand firm in truth and speak against sin in our own contexts.

Hope Beyond Judgment
While judgment is pronounced, it is not the end. God's ultimate desire is for restoration and reconciliation with His people.

Personal Reflection and Repentance
Use this passage as a mirror to reflect on personal areas of disobedience and seek God's forgiveness and guidance.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day "high places" or idols that can distract us from our relationship with God?

2. How does understanding the historical context of the Babylonian exile enhance our comprehension of Ezekiel's message?

3. In what ways can we, like Ezekiel, be faithful in delivering God's truth in our own lives and communities?

4. How do other scriptures about idolatry and judgment help us understand the seriousness of these issues in Ezekiel 6:2?

5. What steps can we take to ensure that our worship and devotion are directed solely towards God, avoiding the pitfalls of idolatry?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 12:2-3
This passage commands the Israelites to destroy the high places of idolatry, connecting to Ezekiel's prophecy against the mountains where such practices occurred.

Jeremiah 3:6-10
Jeremiah also speaks against the idolatry of Israel, highlighting the nation's unfaithfulness, similar to Ezekiel's message.

2 Kings 17:7-18
This passage details the reasons for Israel's exile, including idolatry, which Ezekiel addresses in his prophecies.

Isaiah 2:2-3
Contrasts the judgment against the mountains with the future hope of the mountains of the Lord being established as a place of true worship.