◄ Ezekiel 6 ►
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Judgment against Idolatry (Deuteronomy 4:15–31; Deuteronomy 12:29–32) 1And the word of the LORD came to me, saying, 2“Son of man, set your face against the mountains of Israel and prophesy against them. 3You are to say: ‘O mountains of Israel, hear the word of the Lord GOD! This is what the Lord GOD says to the mountains and hills, to the ravines and valleys: I am about to bring a sword against you, and I will destroy your high places. 4Your altars will be demolished and your incense altars will be smashed; and I will cast down your slain before your idols. 5I will lay the corpses of the Israelites before their idols and scatter your bones around your altars. 6Wherever you live, the cities will be laid waste and the high places will be demolished, so that your altars will be laid waste and desecrated, your idols smashed and obliterated, your incense altars cut down, and your works blotted out. 7The slain will fall among you, and you will know that I am the LORD. A Remnant to Be Blessed 8Yet I will leave a remnant, for some of you will escape the sword when you are scattered among the nations and throughout the lands. 9Then in the nations to which they have been carried captive, your survivors will remember Me—how I have been grieved by their adulterous hearts that turned away from Me, and by their eyes that lusted after idols. So they will loathe themselves for the evil they have done and for all their abominations. 10And they will know that I am the LORD; I did not declare in vain that I would bring this calamity upon them. 11This is what the Lord GOD says: Clap your hands, stomp your feet, and cry out “Alas!” because of all the wicked abominations of the house of Israel, who will fall by sword and famine and plague. 12He who is far off will die by the plague, he who is near will fall by the sword, and he who remains will die by famine. So I will vent My fury upon them. 13Then you will know that I am the LORD, when their slain lie among their idols around their altars, on every high hill, on all the mountaintops, and under every green tree and leafy oak—the places where they offered fragrant incense to all their idols. 14I will stretch out My hand against them, and wherever they live I will make the land a desolate waste, from the wilderness to Diblah.a Then they will know that I am the LORD.’” Footnotes: 14 a Most Hebrew manuscripts; Vulgate and a few Hebrew manuscripts Riblah 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 6 Summary Judgment against Idolatry Verses 1–7 – Judgment on the Mountains of Israel The LORD directs Ezekiel to prophesy not to people first, but to the very landscape—“the mountains, hills, ravines, and valleys.” The high places that hosted Israel’s idols will be struck. Altars and incense altars will be smashed; slain bodies will lie in front of the lifeless idols, demonstrating their impotence. Towns will be laid waste, and the land will become desolate so “you will know that I am the LORD.” Verses 8–10 – Survival of a Remnant Amid the devastation God promises a remnant. Some exiles will “remember Me among the nations,” detesting the idols they once chased. As survivors recall their evil deeds, they will finally recognize that the LORD has acted justly, not without cause. Verses 11–14 – Complete Desolation and Recognition of the LORD God instructs Ezekiel to clap his hands and stamp his foot, dramatizing the certainty of coming disaster. Sword, famine, and plague will sweep from the wilderness to Riblah, leaving the land barren and every high place destroyed. Repeatedly the chapter closes with the purpose statement: “Then they will know that I am the LORD.” Ezekiel 6 is a powerful and solemn chapter in the Old Testament, where the prophet Ezekiel is commanded by God to prophesy against the mountains of Israel. The primary focus is on the judgement and wrath that will fall upon Israel due to their persistent idolatry. Despite the impending doom, the chapter also introduces a glimmer of hope: a remnant that will be spared and may eventually repent. Historical Setting • Date: c. 592 BC, early in Ezekiel’s ministry among the exiles in Babylon (Ezekiel 1:2). • Audience: Israelites already in captivity who still hankered for the worship practices that had doomed Jerusalem. • Political climate: Nebuchadnezzar had installed Zedekiah in Jerusalem; rebellion was brewing, and Judah’s end was less than six years away (586 BC). Geography of Idolatry “Mountains, hills, ravines, and valleys” (6:3) pinpoint common sites of pagan shrines. Archaeological digs at Dan, Megiddo, and Beersheba uncover high-place altars built on elevated ground for Canaanite and syncretistic rites. These findings match biblical descriptions in 1 Kings 14:23; 2 Chronicles 28:4. Idolatry: Practices and Evidence • Standing stones and carved images (Ezekiel 6:4). • Incense altars uncovered in Tel Arad show how burning fragrance was linked to deity appeasement—condemned in Isaiah 65:3. • “Fragrant aroma” was meant for the LORD alone (Exodus 30:34-38). Offering it to idols was spiritual adultery. Echoes of Earlier Covenant Warnings Leviticus 26:30-33 mirrors Ezekiel 6 almost phrase by phrase: destroyed high places, scattered bones, desolate cities. Deuteronomy 28:45-52 foretold sword, famine, and exile. Ezekiel shows that God is now carrying out those ancient pledges. The Remnant Principle Despite judgment, God preserves a remnant (6:8). Other links: • 1 Kings 19:18 – 7,000 who had not bowed to Baal. • Isaiah 10:20-22 – a remnant returning. • Romans 11:5 – Paul points to a remnant “chosen by grace,” tying the theme into the church age. Prophetic Sign-Acts Clapping and foot-stomping (6:11) visualize anger and certainty. Similar gestures: • Jeremiah 31:19 – smiting the thigh in repentance. • Ezekiel 21:14 – “strike hand to hand” to emphasize the sword prophecy. Triple Judgments: Sword, Famine, Plague A recurring triad (6:11-12) also appears in Ezekiel 5:12 and Revelation 6:8. It underscores total calamity—warfare, supply collapse, and disease. “Then They Will Know That I Am the LORD” The phrase surfaces four times in this chapter (6:7, 10, 13, 14) and over 60 times in the book. Recognition theology: God’s acts, whether blessing or judgment, aim to reveal His identity and authority. Compare John 17:3 where eternal life is knowing the Father and Jesus Christ. Archaeological Corroboration of Desolation Excavations at Lachish Level III and Jerusalem’s City of David show burn layers and collapsed walls dating to 586 BC. Pottery shards suddenly stop, matching Ezekiel’s vision of empty, shattered cities (6:6). From Ezekiel to the New Testament • Acts 17:24-29 – Paul denounces idols made with hands, echoing Ezekiel’s exposure of lifeless images. • 1 John 5:21 – “Little children, keep yourselves from idols” distills the chapter’s warning for believers today. • Hebrews 10:31 – “It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God,” a New-Covenant reminder of the same holy character. Practical Takeaways 1. Hidden sin becomes public ruin; what was done on high places is exposed in open valleys. 2. God’s patience has limits, but His mercy keeps a remnant. 3. Genuine repentance involves loathing former sins, not merely regretting consequences (6:9). 4. National or personal security apart from the LORD is fragile; He alone is the living God. Concluding Thought Ezekiel 6 is a loud warning siren and a soft promise in one chapter: idols collapse and land wither, yet God still reaches for hearts that will finally recognize His unmatched power and steadfast love. Connections to Additional Scriptures Deuteronomy 5:7-9 These verses reiterate the commandment against idolatry and the consequences of turning away from God. Jeremiah 3:12-14 This passage speaks of God's call to repentance and His willingness to forgive and restore His people. Romans 1:18-25 Paul discusses the consequences of idolatry and the importance of worshiping the Creator rather than the creation. Teaching Points God's Sovereign Judgment Ezekiel 6:1-7 highlights God's authority and His right to judge His people for their idolatry. Thus says the Lord GOD to the mountains and hills, to the ravines and valleys: Behold, I Myself will bring a sword against you, and I will destroy your high places (Ezekiel 6:3). This demonstrates that God sees all and will not tolerate the worship of false gods. The Consequences of Idolatry The chapter vividly describes the destruction that will come upon the land and its people due to their unfaithfulness. Your altars will be demolished and your incense altars will be smashed; and I will cast down your slain before your idols (Ezekiel 6:4). This serves as a warning that idolatry leads to spiritual and physical ruin. A Remnant Will Remember Despite the severe judgment, God promises that a remnant will survive and remember Him. Yet I will leave a remnant, for some of you will escape the sword among the nations when you are scattered throughout the countries (Ezekiel 6:8). This shows God's mercy and His desire for His people to return to Him. Recognition of God's Sovereignty The repeated phrase Then you will know that I am the LORD (Ezekiel 6:7, 10, 13, 14) emphasizes the ultimate purpose of God's judgment: to bring His people back to the recognition of His sovereignty and holiness. Practical Applications Examine Personal Idols Reflect on anything in your life that may be taking precedence over your relationship with God. Are there modern-day idols that need to be removed? Understand the Seriousness of Sin Recognize the gravity of sin and its consequences. This understanding should lead to genuine repentance and a desire to live a life pleasing to God. Trust in God's Mercy Even in judgment, God provides hope. Trust in His mercy and His promise to restore those who turn back to Him. Acknowledge God's Sovereignty In all circumstances, acknowledge that God is in control and His ways are just and righteous. People 1. The House of Israel This refers to the collective people of Israel, who are the primary recipients of the prophetic message. They are addressed as a nation that has turned away from God to worship idols. The Hebrew term used here is "בֵּית יִשְׂרָאֵל" (Beit Yisrael), meaning the "house" or "family" of Israel. 2. The Idolatrous People While not named individually, these are the people within Israel who have engaged in idol worship, provoking God's anger. The chapter describes their actions and the resulting judgment. 3. The Survivors In verses 8-10, God speaks of a remnant that will survive the coming destruction. These individuals will remember God among the nations where they are scattered and will recognize their sins and idolatry. 4. The Prophets Although not directly mentioned in this chapter, Ezekiel himself is the prophet delivering God's message. The role of the prophet is crucial as the intermediary who communicates God's words to the people. The chapter emphasizes the collective responsibility and consequences of the nation's idolatry rather than focusing on specific individuals. The message is one of warning and a call to repentance, highlighting the seriousness of turning away from God. Places 1. Mountains of Israel The prophecy begins with a direct address to the "mountains of Israel" (Ezekiel 6:2). In the Hebrew text, the word for mountains is "הָרִים" (harim), which often symbolizes the high places where idolatrous worship occurred. The mountains are significant as they were locations of altars and pagan worship practices that the Israelites engaged in, contrary to God's commands. 2. Hills Alongside the mountains, the "hills" are mentioned (Ezekiel 6:3). The Hebrew word "גְּבָעוֹת" (geva'ot) refers to smaller elevations or mounds. These were also sites of idol worship and are included in the judgment pronounced by God. 3. Ravines The prophecy also addresses the "ravines" (Ezekiel 6:3). The Hebrew term "אֲפִיקִים" (afikim) can mean channels or valleys, often associated with places where water flows. These areas were sometimes used for cultic practices and are part of the comprehensive judgment against the land. 4. Valleys Finally, the "valleys" are mentioned (Ezekiel 6:3). The Hebrew word "גֵּיאוֹת" (ge'ot) refers to low-lying areas between hills or mountains. Like the other geographical features, valleys were locations where idolatry was practiced, and they are included in the scope of God's judgment. Events 1. Prophecy Against the Mountains of Israel Ezekiel is instructed to set his face against the mountains of Israel and prophesy against them. The mountains symbolize the high places where idolatrous worship occurred. The Hebrew word for "mountains" is "הָרִים" (harim), indicating the physical high places that were often sites of pagan worship. 2. Destruction of Idolatrous Altars God declares that He will bring a sword against the high places, and the altars will be demolished. The Hebrew term for "altars" is "מִזְבְּחוֹת" (mizbechot), referring to the structures used for sacrifices to idols. 3. Slain Before Their Idols The people of Israel will fall slain before their idols, highlighting the futility of their false worship. The Hebrew word for "idols" is "גִּלּוּלִים" (gillulim), often used in a derogatory sense to describe worthless or detestable objects of worship. 4. Scattering of Bones God will scatter the bones of the Israelites around their altars, a sign of desecration and judgment. This act signifies the complete defilement of the places they considered sacred. 5. Desolation of the Land The land will become desolate, and the cities will be laid waste. This desolation serves as a consequence of the people's idolatry and rebellion against God. 6. Recognition of the LORD Through these judgments, the people will know that He is the LORD. The Hebrew name used here is "יְהוָה" (YHWH), emphasizing God's covenant relationship with Israel and His sovereignty. 7. Survivors and Remnant A remnant will be spared, and they will remember God among the nations where they are scattered. This remnant will loathe themselves for the evils they committed, acknowledging their sins and the righteousness of God's judgment. 8. God's Grief Over Israel's Idolatry God expresses His grief over the detestable practices of Israel, showing that His judgments are not arbitrary but are responses to their unfaithfulness. 9. Call to Repentance The chapter concludes with a call for the people to recognize their sins and turn back to God, emphasizing His desire for repentance and restoration. Lessons from Ezekiel 6 1. The Certainty of God's Judgment Ezekiel 6 reminds us that God's judgment is certain and just. The chapter opens with a clear message: "The word of the LORD came to me, saying, 'Son of man, set your face against the mountains of Israel and prophesy against them'" (Ezekiel 6:1-2). This serves as a powerful reminder that God sees all and will hold us accountable. It's a call to live righteously, knowing that our actions have consequences. 2. Idolatry Leads to Destruction The Israelites' idolatry is a central theme in Ezekiel 6. God warns them of the destruction that will come because they have turned to false gods. "Your altars will be demolished and your incense altars will be smashed" (Ezekiel 6:4). This is a timeless lesson about the dangers of placing anything above God in our lives. We are encouraged to examine our hearts and remove any idols that may have taken His rightful place. 3. God's Desire for Repentance Despite the stern warnings, God's ultimate desire is for His people to repent and return to Him. "Then those of you who escape will remember Me among the nations to which they have been carried captive" (Ezekiel 6:9). This shows God's mercy and His longing for a restored relationship with His people. It's a reminder that no matter how far we stray, God is always ready to welcome us back with open arms. 4. The Power of God's Word Ezekiel's prophecy underscores the power and authority of God's Word. When God speaks, things happen. "And you will know that I am the LORD" (Ezekiel 6:7). This is a call to immerse ourselves in Scripture, allowing it to guide and transform our lives. The Bible is not just a book; it's the living Word of God, full of wisdom and truth. 5. The Importance of Obedience Ezekiel 6 highlights the importance of obedience to God. The Israelites' disobedience led to their downfall. "They have been adulterous with their idols" (Ezekiel 6:9). This serves as a cautionary tale for us to follow God's commands and live according to His will. Obedience is not just about following rules; it's about aligning our lives with God's perfect plan. 6. God's Sovereignty Over All Creation The chapter emphasizes God's sovereignty over all creation. He commands Ezekiel to prophesy against the mountains, hills, ravines, and valleys (Ezekiel 6:3). This illustrates that God is in control of everything, from the highest peaks to the lowest valleys. It's a comforting reminder that no matter what we face, God is sovereign and His plans are perfect. 7. The Consequences of Sin Ezekiel 6 vividly portrays the consequences of sin. The destruction and desolation described are direct results of the Israelites' rebellion against God. "I will stretch out My hand against them and make the land desolate" (Ezekiel 6:14). This serves as a sobering reminder that sin has real and serious consequences, urging us to seek forgiveness and live in righteousness. 8. The Call to Be a Watchman Ezekiel's role as a prophet is akin to that of a watchman, warning the people of impending danger. This is a call for us to be vigilant in our own lives and in the lives of those around us. We are encouraged to lovingly guide others back to the truth, sharing the hope and salvation found in Jesus Christ. 9. The Hope of Restoration Even amidst judgment, there is hope for restoration. God promises that a remnant will remember Him and return. "They will loathe themselves for the evil they have done" (Ezekiel 6:9). This is a message of hope that no matter how dire the situation, God can restore and renew. It's a reminder of the transformative power of His grace. 10. The Assurance of God's Presence Finally, Ezekiel 6 assures us of God's presence. Despite the judgment, God is with His people, and His ultimate goal is to bring them back to Him. "Then they will know that I am the LORD" (Ezekiel 6:14). This is a comforting promise that God is always with us, guiding and sustaining us through every trial. His presence is our greatest assurance and strength. Topics 1. Prophecy Against the Mountains of Israel Ezekiel is instructed to prophesy against the mountains of Israel, symbolizing the high places where idolatry was practiced. The Hebrew word for "mountains" (הָרִים, harim) often represents places of pagan worship. ^"Son of man, set your face against the mountains of Israel and prophesy against them."^ (Ezekiel 6:2) 2. Destruction of Idolatrous Altars God declares that the altars and idols will be destroyed, emphasizing His judgment against idolatry. The Hebrew term for "idols" (גִּלּוּלִים, gillulim) conveys a sense of detestable or worthless things. ^"Your altars will be demolished and your incense altars will be smashed; and I will cast down your slain before your idols."^ (Ezekiel 6:4) 3. Judgment and the Sword The prophecy includes a warning of the sword, representing warfare and destruction as a form of divine judgment. ^"I will bring a sword against you, and I will destroy your high places."^ (Ezekiel 6:3) 4. Scattering and Remnant Despite the judgment, God promises that a remnant will be spared and scattered among the nations, highlighting His mercy and the preservation of His people. ^"Yet I will leave a remnant, for some of you will escape the sword when you are scattered among the nations."^ (Ezekiel 6:8) 5. Recognition of the LORD The ultimate purpose of these judgments is that the people will recognize the sovereignty and holiness of the LORD. The Hebrew word for "know" (יָדַע, yada) implies an intimate understanding and acknowledgment. ^"Then they will know that I am the LORD, when their people lie slain among their idols, around their altars, on every high hill and on all the mountaintops, under every green tree and every leafy oak—the places where they offered fragrant incense to all their idols."^ (Ezekiel 6:13) 6. Call to Repentance and Mourning The chapter concludes with a call to repentance, urging the people to mourn over their abominations and turn back to God. ^"They will loathe themselves for the evil they have done and for all their abominations."^ (Ezekiel 6:9) Themes 1. Judgment Against Idolatry Ezekiel 6 begins with a pronouncement of judgment against the mountains of Israel, symbolizing the high places where idolatry was practiced. The Lord declares, "I will destroy your high places" (Ezekiel 6:3). The Hebrew word for "high places" (בָּמוֹת, bamot) refers to elevated sites used for idol worship, highlighting God's intolerance for idolatry. 2. Destruction of Idolatrous Altars The text emphasizes the destruction of altars and idols, as God says, "Your altars will be demolished and your incense altars will be smashed" (Ezekiel 6:4). This theme underscores the futility of idol worship and God's power over false gods. 3. Divine Retribution The chapter conveys a theme of divine retribution, where God states, "I will lay the corpses of the Israelites in front of their idols" (Ezekiel 6:5). This serves as a stark warning of the consequences of turning away from God, emphasizing His justice. 4. Recognition of the LORD A recurring theme is the recognition of God's sovereignty: "Then you will know that I am the LORD" (Ezekiel 6:7). The Hebrew root יָדַע (yada) implies an intimate knowledge and acknowledgment of God's authority and power. 5. Remnant and Repentance Despite the judgment, there is a theme of hope for a remnant: "Yet I will leave a remnant, for some of you will escape the sword among the nations" (Ezekiel 6:8). This theme highlights God's mercy and the possibility of repentance and restoration. 6. Heartfelt Repentance The chapter calls for genuine repentance, as the people will "loathe themselves for the evil they have done" (Ezekiel 6:9). The Hebrew word for "loathe" (קּוּץ, quz) indicates a deep emotional response, suggesting true contrition. 7. Certainty of God's Word The certainty and fulfillment of God's word is emphasized: "I have spoken, and I will do it" (Ezekiel 6:10). This theme underscores the reliability and authority of God's declarations. Prayer Points Repentance Pray for a heart of repentance and the strength to turn away from any form of idolatry in your life. Awareness of Sin Ask God to reveal any hidden sins and to help you understand the seriousness of disobedience. Trust in God's Mercy Thank God for His mercy and pray for the faith to trust in His promise of restoration. Recognition of God's Sovereignty Pray for a deeper understanding and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty in every aspect of life. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Ezekiel 6:2–3, how can an address to literal mountains make sense, and is there any historical or archaeological record of a catastrophe specifically targeting these mountains? 2. Why does Ezekiel 6:4–5 describe a destruction of altars and idols that lacks clear archaeological confirmation of such widespread devastation? 3. How do we reconcile Ezekiel 6:8–9, which speaks of a repentant remnant, with other passages (e.g., 2 Kings 21:14) suggesting total destruction or exile? 4. Does the harsh judgment in Ezekiel 6:10 fit with a loving and merciful God, or does it conflict with more compassionate depictions found elsewhere in the Bible? 5. In Ezekiel 6:7 and repeated throughout the chapter, why would an omnipotent God need to prove His identity through punishment rather than other means? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does Ezekiel 6 teach us about the consequences of idolatry? 2. How does this chapter portray God's view of idol worship? 3. In what ways can we apply the lessons from the devastation due to idolatry to our modern life? 4. What does God’s promise of a remnant reveal about His character? 5. How can we identify and eliminate "modern-day idols" in our lives? 6. How does God's message through Ezekiel resonate with the current state of the world? 7. How can you ensure that you are not participating in modern-day idolatry? 8. How does the concept of a "remnant" apply to the Christian community today? 9. Can you draw any parallels between the desolation foretold in Ezekiel and any events in recent history? 10. In the face of God's wrath, what is our role in interceding for our nations? 11. How does the prophecy given to Ezekiel challenge your understanding of God’s justice? 12. What can we learn about repentance from the prophecy against Israel? 13. How does God's promise of sparing a remnant offer hope amidst judgment? 14. Why do you think God allowed Ezekiel to see the impending punishment for Israel's sins? 15. How does Ezekiel's message influence your relationship with God and others? 16. How can we prevent ourselves from straying away from God's teachings as the Israelites did? 17. What actions can we take when we see idolatry or disobedience to God in our societies? 18. How can you apply the lessons of Ezekiel 6 to your personal spiritual journey? 19. How does God's treatment of Israel in Ezekiel 6 influence your understanding of His mercy and judgement? 20. What would you do if you were in Ezekiel's position, being tasked with delivering such a heavy prophecy? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions