◄ Ezekiel 21 ►
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God’s Sword of Judgment 1And the word of the LORD came to me, saying, 2“Son of man, set your face against Jerusalem and preach against the sanctuaries. Prophesy against the land of Israel 3and tell her that this is what the LORD says: ‘I am against you, and I will draw My sword from its sheath and cut off from you both the righteous and the wicked. 4Because I will cut off both the righteous and the wicked, My sword will be unsheathed against everyone from south to north. 5Then all flesh will know that I, the LORD, have taken My sword from its sheath, not to return it again.’ 6But you, son of man, groan! Groan before their eyes with a broken heart and bitter grief. 7And when they ask, ‘Why are you groaning?’ you are to say, ‘Because of the news that is coming. Every heart will melt, and every hand will go limp. Every spirit will faint, and every knee will turn to water.’ Yes, it is coming and it will surely happen, declares the Lord GOD.” 8Again the word of the LORD came to me, saying, 9“Son of man, prophesy and tell them that this is what the Lord says: ‘A sword, a sword, sharpened and polished— 10it is sharpened for the slaughter, polished to flash like lightning! Should we rejoice in the scepter of My son? The sword despises every such stick. 11The sword is appointed to be polished, to be grasped in the hand. It is sharpened and polished, to be placed in the hand of the slayer. 12Cry out and wail, O son of man, for the sword is wielded against My people; it is against all the princes of Israel! They are tossed to the sword with My people; therefore strike your thigh.a 13Surely testing will come! And what if even the scepter, which the sword despises, does not continue?’ declares the Lord GOD. 14‘So then, son of man, prophesy and strike your hands together. Let the sword strike two times, even three. It is a sword that slays, a sword of great slaughter closing in on every side! 15So that their hearts may melt and many may stumble, I have appointed at all their gates a sword for slaughter. Yes, it is ready to flash like lightning; it is drawn for slaughter. 16Slash to the right; set your blade to the left— wherever your blade is directed. 17I too will strike My hands together, and I will satisfy My wrath.’ I, the LORD, have spoken.” 18Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying, 19“Now you, son of man, mark out two roads for the sword of the king of Babylon to take, both starting from the same land. And make a signpost where the road branches off to each city. 20Mark out one road for the sword to come against Rabbah of the Ammonites, and another against Judah into fortified Jerusalem. 21For the king of Babylon stands at the fork in the road, at the junction of the two roads, to seek an omen: He shakes the arrows, he consults the idols, he examines the liver. 22In his right hand appears the portent for Jerusalem, where he is to set up battering rams, to call for the slaughter, to lift a battle cry, to direct the battering rams against the gates, to build a ramp, and to erect a siege wall. 23It will seem like a false omen to the eyes of those who have sworn allegiance to him, but it will draw attention to their guilt and take them captive. 24Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Because you have drawn attention to your guilt, exposing your transgressions, so that your sins are revealed in all your deeds—because you have come to remembrance—you shall be taken in hand. 25And you, O profane and wicked prince of Israel, the day has come for your final punishment.’ 26This is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Remove the turban, and take off the crown. Things will not remain as they are: Exalt the lowly and bring low the exalted. 27A ruin, a ruin, I will make it a ruin! And it will not be restored until the arrival of Him to whom it belongs, to whom I have assigned the right of judgment.b’ 28Now prophesy, son of man, and declare that this is what the Lord GOD says concerning the Ammonites and their contempt: ‘A sword! A sword is drawn for slaughter, polished to consume, to flash like lightning— 29while they offer false visions for you and lying divinations about you— to be placed on the necks of the wicked who are slain, whose day has come, the time of their final punishment. 30Return the sword to its sheath! In the place where you were created, in the land of your origin, I will judge you. 31I will pour out My anger upon you; I will breathe the fire of My fury against you; I will hand you over to brutal men, skilled in destruction. 32You will be fuel for the fire. Your blood will stain your own land. You will not be remembered, for I, the LORD, have spoken.’” Footnotes: 12 a Or beat your breast 27 b Or of Him to whom it rightfully belongs, to whom I have given it. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Ezekiel 21 Summary God's Sword of Judgment Verses 1–7 – The Sword Drawn against Jerusalem God orders Ezekiel to face the south and announce that His fiery sword is coming against the land, including Judah and Jerusalem. The prophet must sigh deeply as a sign of the terror that is about to fall on every heart, because the judgment will spare no one, righteous or wicked. Verses 8–17 – The Sharpened, Polished Sword The word of the LORD describes a sword honed and gleaming for slaughter. Ezekiel is to clap his hands and cry out, because the sword is swinging again and again, ready to strike leaders and people alike. God Himself directs the blade, symbolizing certain defeat. Verses 18–24 – Nebuchadnezzar at the Crossroad The prophet then sees the king of Babylon standing where the road splits toward Rabbah of Ammon or Jerusalem. By casting lots with arrows, consulting idols, and examining livers, the king chooses Jerusalem. Though Judah hopes the omen is false, God says their guilt is remembered, sealing the attack. Verses 25–27 – Judgment on the Prince of Israel The current ruler—Zedekiah—is called “wicked prince.” His day has come. The royal turban and crown will be removed. Things will be overturned again and again “until He comes to whom it rightfully belongs; to Him I will give it.” Verses 28–32 – The Oracle against Ammon Ammon rejoiced at Judah’s downfall, but its own sword will also return upon its head. The LORD promises extermination, and this word, unlike human divination, is certain. Ezekiel 21 is a potent chapter rich in symbolism and prophecy. It offers a sobering portrait of divine judgment as conveyed through the voice of Prophet Ezekiel. God's judgment against Jerusalem, Israel, and the surrounding nations is detailed, and the chapter also features the iconic imagery of the sword to portray impending disaster. Historical Setting • Date: c. 589-588 BC, shortly before Babylon’s final siege of Jerusalem (2 Kings 25:1-10). • World stage: Nebuchadnezzar II is expanding his empire. Judah is a vassal state but rebels, hoping for Egyptian help. • Ezekiel prophesies from exile in Babylon, announcing what the home city refuses to believe. The Sword as Divine Agent • In prophetic language, God’s “sword” represents invading armies (Jeremiah 25:15-29). • Verse 5 adds “all flesh,” hinting that judgment can reach beyond Israel. • A sharpened, polished sword (v 9-11) conveys readiness and speed—no rust, no dull edge. • Hebrews 4:12 later pictures God’s word as a sword that “penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit,” echoing the idea that His judgments cut to the heart. Babylonian Divination Practices • Verse 21 lists three methods: – Shaking arrows: likely inscribed shafts drawn from a quiver, the chosen arrow revealing the target city. – Consulting teraphim: household idols thought to give guidance (Genesis 31:19). – Examining livers: hepatoscopy; priests studied liver patterns of sacrificed sheep to read omens. • Clay tablets from Mari and Nineveh describe these exact rituals, confirming Ezekiel’s realism. • God uses even pagan tools to carry out His plan (Proverbs 21:1). Messianic Echoes in Verse 27 “Until He comes to whom it rightfully belongs.” • Hints at Genesis 49:10, where the scepter will not depart “until Shiloh comes.” • The promise implies that after Zedekiah, no lasting Davidic king will reign until Messiah. • Jesus fulfills this claim—born of David’s line (Luke 1:32-33), crowned by God though rejected by men. Contrast with the Ammonites • Ammon cheered Judah’s ruin (Ezekiel 25:1-7). God notices gloating (Proverbs 17:5). • Their sword returns on their own land (v 28-29). History records Nebuchadnezzar also attacked Ammon, and later the Nabateans displaced them. • The double oracle shows God’s impartial justice. Connections to Other Scriptures • Isaiah 34 and Jeremiah 50-51 also depict God’s sword against nations. • Revelation 19:15 pictures Christ with a sharp sword from His mouth, tying final judgment to the same imagery. • Matthew 26:52—“all who draw the sword will die by the sword”—rests on this prophetic pattern of reaping what one sows. • Psalm 37:14-15 promises that wicked swords will pierce their own hearts, matching Ezekiel’s message to Ammon. Practical Lessons for Believers Today • God’s warnings are meant to be felt: Ezekiel’s sigh (v 6) shows compassion while still telling truth. • Judgment can be delayed but not canceled when sin persists; repentance must accompany hope. • Trusting in political alliances or human omens fails; only reliance on the LORD stands. • Christ, the rightful King, brings both justice and restoration—our confidence rests in His eventual reign, not in current rulers. Archaeological Notes • Lachish Letters, written during the Babylonian advance, reveal Judah’s last-minute distress and confirm Ezekiel’s timeline. • Babylonian chronicles mention the 13th year of Nebuchadnezzar’s reign aligning with the siege. • Excavations in Ammonite territory uncover destroyed fortresses dating to the 6th century BC, supporting the prophecy’s fulfillment. Summary Takeaway Ezekiel 21 paints a vivid picture of God’s unsheathed sword—swift, bright, unstoppable. It slices through self-deception in Jerusalem, warns neighboring nations, and points forward to the ultimate King who alone can wear the crown. Connections to Additional Scriptures Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword... This verse connects to the imagery of the sword in Ezekiel 21, highlighting the power and precision of God's word. Revelation 19:15 From His mouth proceeds a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations... This passage parallels the theme of divine judgment and the ultimate victory of Christ. Isaiah 11:4 He will strike the earth with the rod of His mouth and slay the wicked with the breath of His lips. This prophecy aligns with the message of judgment and restoration found in Ezekiel 21. Teaching Points The Sword of the LORD Ezekiel 21:3-5 describes the LORD's sword as being drawn against both the righteous and the wicked, emphasizing the impartiality and inevitability of God's judgment. The Role of the Prophet In Ezekiel 21:6-7, Ezekiel is instructed to groan with a broken heart, symbolizing the deep sorrow and urgency of the message he bears. The Sword Sharpened and Polished Verses 9-11 depict the sword as sharpened and polished, ready for slaughter, illustrating the preparedness and decisiveness of God's judgment. The Sign of the King of Babylon In verses 18-23, God uses the king of Babylon as an instrument of His judgment, showing that even pagan nations are under His sovereign control. The Overturning of the Throne Ezekiel 21:26-27 speaks of the removal of the diadem and crown, signifying the end of the current order and the promise of a future restoration under the rightful ruler. Practical Applications Reflect on God's Justice Consider how God's impartial judgment calls us to live righteously and to seek His mercy. Embrace the Role of a Messenger Like Ezekiel, we are called to share God's truth with compassion and urgency, even when the message is difficult. Prepare for God's Return Just as the sword was ready, we must be spiritually prepared for Christ's return, living in a way that honors Him. Trust in God's Sovereignty Recognize that God is in control of all nations and leaders, and His purposes will ultimately prevail. Hope in Restoration Look forward to the fulfillment of God's promise to establish His kingdom under the rightful King, Jesus Christ. People 1. The LORD (Yahweh) The primary speaker in the chapter, delivering a message of judgment through the prophet Ezekiel. The name "Yahweh" is derived from the Hebrew root "יהוה" (YHWH), which is the covenant name of God in the Old Testament. 2. Ezekiel The prophet who receives and conveys God's message. Ezekiel is a major prophet in the Old Testament, and his name in Hebrew, "יְחֶזְקֵאל" (Yechezkel), means "God strengthens." 3. The Prince of Israel This refers to the leader or ruler of Israel at the time, often understood to be Zedekiah, the last king of Judah before the Babylonian exile. The term "prince" in Hebrew is "נָשִׂיא" (nasi), which can mean leader or chief. 4. The People of Israel The collective group of Israelites who are the recipients of God's judgment due to their disobedience and idolatry. The term "Israel" in Hebrew is "יִשְׂרָאֵל" (Yisrael), meaning "God contends" or "one who struggles with God." 5. The King of Babylon Nebuchadnezzar, the ruler of Babylon, who is used by God as an instrument of judgment against Israel. The Hebrew term for "king" is "מֶלֶךְ" (melek). Places 1. Jerusalem Jerusalem is the central focus of God's judgment in this chapter. The city is depicted as the place where the sword of the Lord will strike, symbolizing impending destruction and divine retribution. The Hebrew root for Jerusalem is "יְרוּשָׁלַיִם" (Yerushalayim), which means "foundation of peace," highlighting the irony of its coming judgment. 2. Ammon The Ammonites are mentioned as recipients of God's judgment alongside Jerusalem. The prophecy extends to the "sons of Ammon," indicating that they too will face the sword. The Hebrew root for Ammon is "עַמּוֹן" (Ammon), referring to the descendants of Lot's son, Ammon, and emphasizing their historical enmity with Israel. Events 1. The Sword of the LORD (Ezekiel 21:1-7) The word of the LORD comes to Ezekiel, instructing him to set his face against Jerusalem and prophesy against the sanctuaries. The LORD declares that He will draw His sword from its sheath and cut off both the righteous and the wicked. The Hebrew word for "sword" (חֶרֶב, ^chereb^) signifies a tool of judgment. 2. The Sword Sharpened and Polished (Ezekiel 21:8-17) The LORD describes the sword as sharpened and polished, ready for slaughter. This imagery emphasizes the certainty and severity of the coming judgment. The Hebrew root for "sharpened" (שָׁנַן, ^shanan^) implies preparation for a decisive action. 3. The Signpost for the King of Babylon (Ezekiel 21:18-23) Ezekiel is instructed to mark two roads for the sword of the king of Babylon to take, symbolizing the decision-making process of the Babylonian king. The LORD guides the king's decision, demonstrating His sovereignty over nations. 4. The Ammonites and Their False Visions (Ezekiel 21:24-32) The prophecy shifts to the Ammonites, who are also subject to judgment. Their reliance on false visions and divination is condemned. The Hebrew term for "divination" (קֶסֶם, ^qesem^) indicates practices contrary to the will of God. Lessons from Ezekiel 21 1. The Sword of Judgment: A Call to Repentance Ezekiel 21 opens with a vivid image of God's sword drawn against Jerusalem, symbolizing impending judgment. This serves as a powerful reminder that God is just and righteous. "I will draw My sword from its sheath and cut off both the righteous and the wicked from you" (Ezekiel 21:3). This passage encourages us to examine our lives and turn away from sin, embracing repentance as a path to restoration. 2. The Certainty of God's Word God's declarations through Ezekiel are certain and unchangeable. "It will not return to its sheath until it has finished My wrath upon you" (Ezekiel 21:5). This underscores the reliability of God's Word. In a world full of uncertainty, we can find solace in the unchanging truth of Scripture, which guides us in every aspect of life. 3. The Role of the Prophet: A Voice for God Ezekiel's role as a prophet is to convey God's message, no matter how difficult. "Son of man, prophesy and say, ‘This is what the Lord says’" (Ezekiel 21:9). This reminds us of our calling to be messengers of truth and love, sharing the Gospel with those around us, even when it challenges the status quo. 4. The Power of Symbolism Ezekiel uses vivid imagery to convey God's message, such as the sword sharpened and polished. "A sword, a sword, sharpened and polished—prepared for the slaughter" (Ezekiel 21:9-10). This teaches us the importance of using creative and relatable methods to communicate spiritual truths, making them accessible and impactful. 5. The Inevitability of Consequences The chapter highlights the inevitability of consequences for sin. "Because you have defiled My sanctuary with all your detestable practices" (Ezekiel 21:24). This serves as a sobering reminder that our actions have repercussions, urging us to live in a way that honors God and aligns with His will. 6. The Sovereignty of God in Judgment God's sovereignty is evident as He directs the sword of judgment. "I have appointed a sword for slaughter" (Ezekiel 21:15). This reassures us that God is in control, even in times of trial and judgment. Trusting in His sovereignty allows us to find peace amidst life's challenges. 7. The Call to Humility Ezekiel 21 calls for humility before God. "Cry out and wail, son of man, for it is against My people" (Ezekiel 21:12). Recognizing our need for God's mercy and grace leads us to a posture of humility, opening our hearts to His transformative work. 8. The Warning Against False Security The chapter warns against placing trust in false securities. "The sword despises every stronghold" (Ezekiel 21:15). This encourages us to evaluate where we place our trust, ensuring it is in God alone, who is our true refuge and strength. 9. The Urgency of Obedience Ezekiel's message emphasizes the urgency of obedience to God's commands. "Therefore, prophesy, son of man, and strike your hands together" (Ezekiel 21:14). Immediate obedience to God's Word is crucial, as it aligns us with His purposes and brings about His blessings. 10. The Hope of Restoration Despite the grim warnings, there is hope for restoration. "I will pour out My wrath upon you, but I will not make a complete end of you" (Ezekiel 21:31-32). This assures us of God's enduring love and His desire to restore and redeem, offering us hope and a future through faith in Christ. Topics 1. The Sword of the LORD (Ezekiel 21:1-7) This section describes the LORD's command to Ezekiel to prophesy against Jerusalem and the sanctuaries. The LORD's sword is drawn and will not return to its sheath until it has accomplished its purpose. The Hebrew word for "sword" (חֶרֶב, chereb) signifies a tool of judgment and destruction. 2. The Song of the Sword (Ezekiel 21:8-17) Here, the LORD instructs Ezekiel to sing a lamentation for the sword that is sharpened and polished for slaughter. The passage emphasizes the inevitability and thoroughness of divine judgment. The repeated sharpening of the sword underscores the certainty and readiness of God's judgment. 3. The Sign of the Marked Road (Ezekiel 21:18-23) Ezekiel is told to mark two roads for the king of Babylon to take, symbolizing the decision-making process of divine judgment. The use of divination by the king of Babylon is highlighted, showing the LORD's sovereignty over even pagan practices. 4. The Judgment on Jerusalem (Ezekiel 21:24-27) This section declares the specific judgment against Jerusalem and its leaders. The LORD will overturn the current order until the rightful one comes. The Hebrew term "overturn" (עַוָּה, avah) indicates a complete upheaval and transformation. 5. The Sword Against the Ammonites (Ezekiel 21:28-32) The prophecy shifts focus to the Ammonites, who are also subject to the LORD's judgment. The sword will return to its sheath only after executing judgment on them. This highlights the comprehensive nature of God's justice, extending beyond Israel to other nations. Each topic reflects the overarching theme of divine judgment and the sovereignty of God in executing justice, as conveyed through the imagery of the sword. Themes 1. The Sword of the LORD The primary theme in Ezekiel 21 is the depiction of God's judgment through the metaphor of a sword. The chapter begins with God instructing Ezekiel to prophesy against Jerusalem and the sanctuaries, declaring that a sword is drawn against them: "The word of the LORD came to me, saying, 'Son of man, set your face against Jerusalem and preach against the sanctuaries. Prophesy against the land of Israel'" (Ezekiel 21:1-2). The Hebrew word for sword, "חֶרֶב" (chereb), signifies a tool of divine judgment. 2. Inevitability of Judgment The inevitability of God's judgment is emphasized throughout the chapter. The sword is described as sharpened and polished, ready for slaughter: "It is sharpened for the slaughter, polished to flash like lightning!" (Ezekiel 21:10). This theme underscores the certainty and imminence of the coming judgment. 3. Divine Sovereignty God's sovereignty is a key theme, as He directs the course of events and uses the sword as an instrument of His will. The LORD declares, "I will pour out My wrath upon you; I will blow against you with the fire of My fury" (Ezekiel 21:31). The Hebrew root "שָׁפַךְ" (shaphak), meaning "to pour out," highlights God's active role in executing judgment. 4. The Role of the Prophet Ezekiel's role as a prophet is highlighted as he is commanded to deliver God's message of impending doom. He is instructed to "groan before their eyes with a broken heart and bitter grief" (Ezekiel 21:6), demonstrating the emotional burden of conveying such a dire prophecy. 5. The Futility of Human Plans The chapter illustrates the futility of human plans in the face of divine judgment. The LORD declares that the sword will strike down both the righteous and the wicked, showing that human efforts cannot avert God's decree: "Because I will cut off both the righteous and the wicked, My sword will be unsheathed against everyone from south to north" (Ezekiel 21:4). 6. The Sign of the King of Babylon The chapter includes a specific prophecy about the King of Babylon, who is depicted as an instrument of God's judgment. The LORD describes how the king will use divination to decide his course of action: "For the king of Babylon will stop at the fork in the road, at the junction of the two roads, to seek an omen" (Ezekiel 21:21). This theme highlights the use of pagan practices to fulfill divine purposes. 7. The Reversal of Fortunes A theme of reversal is present, where those who are exalted will be brought low, and the lowly will be exalted. The LORD declares, "A ruin, a ruin, I will make it a ruin! It will not be restored until the arrival of Him to whom it belongs, to whom I have assigned judgment" (Ezekiel 21:27). This points to the ultimate fulfillment of God's justice and the establishment of His kingdom. 8. The Call to Repentance Implicit in the message of judgment is a call to repentance. Although not explicitly stated in this chapter, the broader context of Ezekiel's prophecies often includes an invitation for the people to turn back to God. The severity of the judgment serves as a warning and an opportunity for repentance. Prayer Points Pray for a Heart of Repentance Ask God to reveal any areas of sin in our lives and to grant us the grace to turn from them. Pray for Boldness in Sharing God's Word Seek the Holy Spirit's empowerment to proclaim God's truth with love and courage. Pray for Trust in God's Sovereignty Request faith to trust in God's control over world events and His ultimate plan for redemption. Pray for Hope in Christ's Return Thank God for the promise of Jesus' return and the establishment of His eternal kingdom. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Ezekiel 21:3–4, how can God threaten to destroy both the righteous and the wicked without contradicting other texts that portray Him as just? 2. Does the divination method described in Ezekiel 21:21 have any verified historical or archaeological basis in Babylonian practices? 3. How do the events foretold in Ezekiel 21:25–27 align with known historical records of Israel’s leadership and exile? 4. Is there any evidence outside the Bible supporting the military and political tumult depicted throughout Ezekiel 21? 5. How can the severe judgment imagery in Ezekiel 21 be reconciled with teachings elsewhere in Scripture about God’s mercy? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the symbolism of the sword in Ezekiel 21 deepen your understanding of God's judgment? 2. What is the significance of God's judgment being directed at both Israel and its neighbors? 3. How does the prophecy against Zedekiah foreshadow the coming of Christ? 4. How might the inhabitants of Jerusalem have felt hearing Ezekiel's prophecy, and how does this reflect on the state of our world today? 5. How do you reconcile the image of a wrathful God in Ezekiel 21 with the image of a loving God? 6. In what ways can the symbolism used in Ezekiel 21 be related to the trials we face in our personal lives? 7. What lessons can we take from the Israelites' disobedience and subsequent punishment? 8. How do the prophecies of Ezekiel 21 demonstrate God's sovereignty over all nations? 9. How do you respond when you encounter passages in the Bible, like Ezekiel 21, that deal with God's judgment? 10. In light of Ezekiel's prophecies, how can we better understand the consequences of straying from God's commandments? 11. In what ways can Ezekiel 21 challenge or affirm your understanding of God's character and His ways? 12. What can we learn about prophecy and its role in the life of a believer from Ezekiel 21? 13. How might the hope of the 'one to whom it rightfully belongs' in verse 27 inspire us amidst trials and tribulations today? 14. How does the unfolding of the prophecy against the Ammonites challenge the false visions and divinations they held? 15. How can we apply the lessons from Ezekiel 21 in navigating false teachings in our current society? 16. In what ways does Ezekiel's role as a prophet inspire you in your personal spiritual walk? 17. How does the portrayal of God's judgement against sin in Ezekiel 21 relate to modern-day issues? 18. What parallels can you draw between the leadership of Zedekiah and some of the leaders in our world today? 19. How does the prophecy in Ezekiel 21 affirm the importance of obedience to God's will? 20. What practical steps can we take to ensure we remain faithful to God's commands, as taught by the dire warnings in Ezekiel 21? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions