◄ Ezekiel 5 ►
Book Sum People Lessons Que
Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
The Razor of Judgment 1“As for you, son of man, take a sharp sword, use it as a barber’s razor, and shave your head and beard. Then take a set of scales and divide the hair. 2When the days of the siege have ended, you are to burn up a third of the hair inside the city; you are also to take a third and slash it with the sword all around the city; and you are to scatter a third to the wind. For I will unleash a sword behind them. 3But you are to take a few strands of hair and secure them in the folds of your garment. 4Again, take a few of these, throw them into the fire, and burn them. From there a fire will spread to the whole house of Israel. 5This is what the Lord GOD says: ‘This is Jerusalem, which I have set in the center of the nations, with countries all around her. 6But she has rebelled against My ordinances more wickedly than the nations, and against My statutes worse than the countries around her. For her people have rejected My ordinances and have not walked in My statutes.’ 7Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘You have been more insubordinate than the nations around you; you have not walked in My statutes or kept My ordinances, nor have you even conformeda to the ordinances of the nations around you.’ 8Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Behold, I Myself am against you, Jerusalem, and I will execute judgments among you in the sight of the nations. 9Because of all your abominations, I will do to you what I have never done before and will never do again. 10As a result, fathers among you will eat their sons, and sons will eat their fathers. I will execute judgments against you and scatter all your remnant to every wind.’ Famine, Sword, and Dispersion 11Therefore as surely as I live, declares the Lord GOD, because you have defiled My sanctuary with all your detestable idols and abominations, I Myself will withdraw My favor; I will not look upon you with pity, nor will I spare you. 12A third of your people will die by plague or be consumed by famine within you, a third will fall by the sword outside your walls, and a third I will scatter to every wind and unleash a sword behind them. 13And when My anger is spent and I have vented My wrath against them, I will be appeased. And when I have spent My wrath on them, they will know that I, the LORD, in My zeal have spoken. 14I will make you a ruin and a disgrace among the nations around you, in the sight of all who pass by. 15So you will beb a reproach and a taunt, a warning and a horror to the nations around you, when I execute judgments against you in anger, wrath, and raging fury. I, the LORD, have spoken. 16When I shower youc 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 supplyd of food. 17I will send famine and wild beasts against you, and they will leave you childless. Plague and bloodshed will sweep through you, and I will bring a sword against you. I, the LORD, have spoken.” Footnotes: 7 a Some Hebrew manuscripts and Syriac My ordinances; you have even conformed 15 b DSS, LXX, Syriac, and Vulgate; MT So it will be 16 c Hebrew them 16 d Hebrew staff 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 5 Summary The Razor of Judgment Verses 1–4 – A Shocking Sign with Hair and Fire The LORD tells Ezekiel to take a sharp sword, “use it as you would a barber’s razor” (v. 1), shave his head and beard, weigh the hair, and divide it into thirds. One-third is burned inside a model of besieged Jerusalem, one-third chopped up with the sword around it, and one-third scattered to the wind while Ezekiel pursues it with the sword. A few hairs are tucked into the hem of the prophet’s robe; some of these are tossed into the fire as well. The acted-out parable warns that judgment will be total, precise, and yet leave a tiny remnant. Verses 5–6 – Jerusalem’s Special Place and Worse Rebellion “Thus says the Lord GOD: ‘This is Jerusalem; I have set her in the center of the nations’” (v. 5). Placed at history’s crossroads and entrusted with God’s covenant, the city has rebelled more grievously than surrounding peoples. Her privilege makes her disobedience more outrageous. Verses 7–10 – Judgment Proportioned to Sin Because Jerusalem out-sinned the nations, God’s response will be unprecedented: “I will execute judgments among you in the sight of the nations” (v. 8). The siege will grow so desperate that parents will eat their children and children their parents (v. 10), a horrifying fulfillment of covenant curses. Verses 11–12 – The Sentence Spelled Out: Thirds of Destruction With His name on the line, God swears, “I will withdraw My favor” (v. 11). The thirds acted out earlier now become literal: plague and famine inside, sword outside, and exile for the survivors. Verses 13–17 – Wrath, Remnant, and the Nations God’s anger will be spent, the nations will see what happens when His people defy Him, and a devastated Jerusalem will stand as “a reproach and a warning” (v. 15). Famine, wild beasts, pestilence, and war close the chapter. Ezekiel 5 is a dramatic chapter in the book of Ezekiel, in which the prophet Ezekiel, guided by God's hand, uses vivid symbolic actions to predict the severe judgment about to befall the city of Jerusalem due to its rebelliousness against God. The chapter underscores God's profound disappointment with His chosen people and reveals the impending consequences of their disobedience. Historical Setting • 593 BC, the sixth year of exile, Ezekiel speaks from Babylon while Nebuchadnezzar’s armies tighten their grip on Jerusalem (cf. 2 Kings 24-25). • The prophet has already built a clay model city (Ezekiel 4) to depict the siege; chapter 5 extends the visual prophecy. • Shaving the head and beard (v. 1) was a sign of deepest shame (Isaiah 7:20; Jeremiah 41:5). For a priest-descended prophet like Ezekiel (Ezekiel 1:3), it would shock the exiles. The Razor, the Scales, and the Hair 1. Razor-sword: God’s word becomes the cutting instrument of judgment (Hebrews 4:12 echoes the image). 2. Scales: The destruction is weighed, not random; see Proverbs 16:11. 3. Hair: Represents the population. Shaving conveys humiliation; burning, hacking, and scattering picture complete but measured ruin. 4. Hems and fringes in ancient garments carried identity (Numbers 15:38-40). Tucking a few hairs shows God still knows His own. Three Parts of Judgment: Sword, Fire, Scattering • Fire inside the model city → famine and disease during siege (Lamentations 4:9-10). • Sword around the model → slaughter outside the walls or as people try to flee (Jeremiah 39:4-6). • Scattering to the wind → exile to Babylon, Egypt, and beyond (Jeremiah 43:5-7; 52:15-16). God pursues even the scattered (“I will draw a sword after them,” v. 2), highlighting that distance offers no escape from accountability (Amos 9:1-4). Cannibalism and Covenant Warnings • Leviticus 26:29; Deuteronomy 28:53-57; Jeremiah 19:9 predicted cannibalism if Israel rebelled. • Historical fulfillment: 2 Kings 6:28-29 during the earlier Aramean siege; Josephus records the same in AD 70. Ezekiel’s word is tragically literal. Jerusalem Placed “in the Center of the Nations” • Physical crossroads of Africa, Asia, and Europe. • Spiritual center: the Temple, the Ark, and God’s name (1 Kings 8:29). • Calling forfeited through disobedience; see Romans 2:24, “God’s name is blasphemed among the nations because of you.” God’s Jealousy and His Name Among the Nations • “Because you have defiled My sanctuary…” (v. 11). The issue is God’s honor. • Jealousy (v. 13) shows devoted love that demands loyalty (Exodus 34:14). • Judgment aims at recognition: “And they will know that I, the LORD, have spoken in My zeal” (v. 13). Recognition theology runs through Ezekiel (cf. 6:7; 36:23). The Remnant Principle • A few hairs in the hem → God preserves a nucleus for future restoration (Ezra 9:8). • Yet some of those hairs go into the fire (v. 4), hinting that even within the remnant there will be purging (Zechariah 13:8-9). • Paul picks up the remnant theme in Romans 11:5, citing Isaiah. Archaeological and Cultural Notes • Razor-sharp swords: Babylonian iron weapons, double-edged, could indeed shave hair. Clay reliefs in the British Museum show barbers using daggers. • Weighed hair: Balance scales and stone weights have been excavated in Judahite strata (7th-6th century BC), underlining the vivid realism of Ezekiel’s sign. • Cannibalism in siege: Lachish Letters and an ostracon from Arad speak of dire food shortages during Nebuchadnezzar’s campaign. • Centrality idea: Egyptian, Hittite, and later Roman maps place Canaan at the land bridge between continents, matching Ezekiel’s wording. Echoes in Later Scripture • Ezekiel 5’s “thirds” reappear in Zechariah 13:8-9 and Revelation 8-9, where one-third of earth, sea, and heavenly bodies are struck. • The language of reproach among nations (v. 15) is echoed in Deuteronomy 28 and culminates in Jesus’ lament over Jerusalem (Matthew 23:37-39). • Wrath satisfied (v. 13) anticipates the cross where wrath is ultimately poured out on Christ (Romans 5:9). Living Lessons • Privilege invites scrutiny: having the Scriptures and God’s presence does not immunize from discipline. • God’s judgments, though severe, are measured—symbolized by the scales—and always aim at eventual restoration. • Even after shaving, burning, and scattering, a few hairs remain. Hope flickers even in the ashes. Connections to Additional Scriptures Leviticus 26:27-33 This passage outlines the consequences of disobedience, similar to the judgments described in Ezekiel 5. Jeremiah 19:3-9 Jeremiah also prophesies about the destruction of Jerusalem, reinforcing the message of Ezekiel. Hebrews 12:5-11 This New Testament passage discusses God's discipline as a sign of His love and a call to righteousness. Teaching Points Symbolic Actions Ezekiel is instructed to shave his head and beard, dividing the hair into three parts to symbolize the fate of Jerusalem. This act signifies the complete humiliation and judgment that will befall the city (Ezekiel 5:1-4). Divine Judgment God declares that He will execute judgments against Jerusalem in the sight of the nations, emphasizing the severity of their sins and the consequences of their rebellion (Ezekiel 5:8). Consequences of Disobedience The chapter highlights the dire consequences of turning away from God, including famine, sword, and dispersion among the nations (Ezekiel 5:12). God's Righteousness Despite the harshness of the judgment, it underscores God's righteousness and justice. His actions are not arbitrary but are a response to the people's persistent unfaithfulness (Ezekiel 5:13). Practical Applications Self-Examination Reflect on areas in your life where you may be straying from God's commands. Consider the potential consequences of continued disobedience. Repentance Recognize the importance of repentance and turning back to God before facing His discipline. Witness to Others Use the account of Ezekiel 5 as a reminder to share the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance with others. Trust in God's Justice Trust that God's judgments are just and righteous, even when they are difficult to understand. People 1. The Sovereign LORD (YHWH) The primary speaker in Ezekiel 5, who commands Ezekiel to perform symbolic acts and delivers judgment upon Jerusalem. The name "LORD" in the BSB is a translation of the Hebrew "YHWH," the covenant name of God, emphasizing His authority and holiness. 2. Ezekiel The prophet and son of Buzi, who is instructed by God to perform symbolic acts to represent the coming judgment on Jerusalem. Ezekiel acts as a mediator of God's message, using vivid imagery to convey the seriousness of the impending punishment. 3. The House of Israel Refers collectively to the people of Israel, particularly those in Jerusalem, who are the recipients of God's judgment due to their idolatry and rebellion. The term "house" (Hebrew: "בֵּית" - "beit") signifies the entire community or nation. 4. The Fathers Mentioned in the context of the judgment, referring to the ancestors of the Israelites who have contributed to the nation's current state of disobedience. This term underscores the generational aspect of sin and its consequences. While Ezekiel 5 does not list individuals by name, these figures and groups are central to understanding the chapter's message and the broader narrative of judgment and hope in the book of Ezekiel. Places 1. Jerusalem The central focus of Ezekiel 5, Jerusalem is depicted as the city under God's judgment due to its rebellion and idolatry. The chapter uses symbolic actions performed by Ezekiel to represent the severe consequences that will befall the city. In the Hebrew text, "Jerusalem" (יְרוּשָׁלַיִם, Yerushalayim) is the city chosen by God, yet it has turned away from His commandments, leading to the prophesied destruction and dispersion of its people. While Ezekiel 5 does not list other specific places, it is important to understand that the chapter's prophecies are directed towards Jerusalem as a representation of the broader judgment on Israel and its surrounding nations. Events 1. Command to Shave and Divide Hair God instructs Ezekiel to take a sharp sword and use it as a barber’s razor to shave his head and beard. This act symbolizes the coming judgment on Jerusalem. The Hebrew word for "shave" (גָּלַח, galach) indicates a complete removal, signifying total devastation. 2. Division of Hair into Three Parts Ezekiel is told to divide the hair into three parts. Each part represents a different fate for the people of Jerusalem. The division signifies the comprehensive nature of the judgment. 3. First Third Burned in the City Ezekiel is to burn one-third of the hair in the city after the days of the siege are completed. This symbolizes the destruction by fire that will come upon the city. The Hebrew root for "burn" (שָׂרַף, saraph) conveys complete consumption. 4. Second Third Struck with the Sword Another third of the hair is to be struck with the sword around the city. This represents those who will fall by the sword during the siege. The Hebrew word for "strike" (נָכָה, nakah) implies a fatal blow. 5. Final Third Scattered to the Wind The last third is to be scattered to the wind, symbolizing those who will be dispersed and exiled. The Hebrew term for "scatter" (זָרָה, zarah) suggests a thorough dispersion. 6. A Few Hairs Bound in the Edge of the Garment Ezekiel is instructed to take a few hairs and bind them in the edge of his garment, indicating a small remnant that will be preserved. The Hebrew word for "bind" (קָשַׁר, qashar) implies securing or protecting. 7. Some Hairs Thrown into the Fire Even from the remnant, some hairs are to be thrown into the fire, symbolizing that even among the survivors, some will face further judgment. The act of throwing (שָׁלַךְ, shalach) indicates a deliberate action of judgment. Lessons from Ezekiel 5 1. The Seriousness of Sin Ezekiel 5 paints a vivid picture of the consequences of turning away from God. The chapter begins with a symbolic act where Ezekiel shaves his head and beard, dividing the hair to represent the fate of Jerusalem. This act underscores the seriousness of sin and its repercussions. As it is written, "Because you have defiled My sanctuary with all your detestable practices and abominations, I Myself will withdraw My favor" (Ezekiel 5:11). This serves as a reminder that sin is not to be taken lightly, and repentance is crucial. 2. The Importance of Obedience God's instructions to Ezekiel were precise, and his obedience was crucial. This highlights the importance of following God's commands without deviation. "Therefore, as surely as I live, declares the Lord GOD, I will withdraw My favor" (Ezekiel 5:11). Obedience to God is not just about following rules; it's about aligning our lives with His will and purpose. 3. The Role of Prophets Ezekiel's role as a prophet was to deliver God's message, no matter how difficult. This chapter reminds us of the vital role prophets play in guiding and warning God's people. "This is what the Lord GOD says: This is Jerusalem, which I have set in the center of the nations, with countries all around her" (Ezekiel 5:5). Prophets are God's mouthpieces, and their messages are as relevant today as they were then. 4. The Centrality of Jerusalem Jerusalem is depicted as the center of the nations, highlighting its significance in God's plan. "This is Jerusalem, which I have set in the center of the nations" (Ezekiel 5:5). This centrality serves as a reminder of the pivotal role Jerusalem plays in biblical history and prophecy, pointing us to the heart of God's redemptive work. 5. The Consequences of Idolatry Ezekiel 5 warns against the dangers of idolatry, which leads to destruction and desolation. "Because you have defiled My sanctuary with all your detestable practices and abominations" (Ezekiel 5:11). Idolatry is not just about worshiping false gods; it's about anything that takes the place of God in our hearts. This lesson calls us to examine our lives and remove anything that competes with our devotion to Him. 6. The Call to Repentance The chapter serves as a call to repentance, urging us to turn back to God. "I will execute judgments against you in the sight of the nations" (Ezekiel 5:8). Repentance is not just about feeling sorry for our sins; it's about a complete change of heart and direction, aligning ourselves with God's will. 7. The Sovereignty of God Ezekiel 5 emphasizes God's sovereignty over all nations. "I will make you a ruin and a reproach among the nations around you" (Ezekiel 5:14). God's plans and purposes will prevail, and His authority is unmatched. This assurance gives us confidence in His ultimate control over the events of the world. 8. The Reality of Divine Judgment The chapter vividly describes the reality of divine judgment. "I will execute judgments against you in anger and in fury and in furious rebukes" (Ezekiel 5:15). This serves as a sobering reminder that God's justice is real, and His judgments are righteous. It calls us to live in a way that honors Him and reflects His holiness. 9. The Hope of Restoration Even amidst judgment, there is hope for restoration. God's ultimate desire is to bring His people back to Himself. "When I have spent My wrath upon them, they will know that I am the LORD" (Ezekiel 5:13). This hope encourages us to trust in God's redemptive plan and His ability to restore what is broken. 10. The Power of God's Word Ezekiel's message demonstrates the power of God's Word to convict, correct, and guide. "This is what the Lord GOD says" (Ezekiel 5:5). God's Word is living and active, and it has the power to transform lives. As we engage with Scripture, we are reminded of its authority and its ability to lead us into truth and righteousness. Topics 1. Symbolic Act of Shaving (Ezekiel 5:1-4) Ezekiel is instructed to shave his head and beard with a sharp sword, symbolizing the coming judgment on Jerusalem. The act of shaving, using the Hebrew word "גָּלַח" (galach), signifies humiliation and disgrace. The hair is divided into thirds, representing the fate of the people: some will die by plague, some by the sword, and some will be scattered. 2. Judgment on Jerusalem (Ezekiel 5:5-10) God declares judgment on Jerusalem for its rebellion and idolatry. The city is described as having acted more wickedly than the nations around it. The Hebrew term "מִשְׁפָּט" (mishpat) is used to denote the divine judgment that will be executed, emphasizing the severity of their sins. 3. The Severity of God's Wrath (Ezekiel 5:11-13) The passage highlights the intensity of God's anger and the complete desolation that will result. The phrase "I will withdraw My favor" (Ezekiel 5:11) underscores the removal of divine protection. The Hebrew word "חֵמָה" (chemah) is used to describe God's wrath, indicating a burning anger. 4. The Scattering of the Remnant (Ezekiel 5:12) A portion of the people will be scattered to the winds, symbolizing dispersion among the nations. The Hebrew word "זָרָה" (zarah) means to scatter or disperse, reflecting the loss of identity and homeland. 5. A Sign to the Nations (Ezekiel 5:14-17) Jerusalem's destruction serves as a warning and a sign to the surrounding nations. The Hebrew word "אוֹת" (oth) is used for "sign," indicating that the judgment on Jerusalem is meant to demonstrate God's holiness and justice to the world. Themes 1. Divine Judgment Ezekiel 5 emphasizes God's impending judgment on Jerusalem due to their rebellion and idolatry. The chapter begins with a symbolic act where Ezekiel is instructed to shave his head and beard, representing the severe judgment that will befall the city. The Hebrew word for judgment, "מִשְׁפָּט" (mishpat), underscores the legal and righteous nature of God's actions. 2. Symbolic Actions The chapter is rich with symbolic actions, such as the division of Ezekiel's hair into thirds, each representing different fates for the people of Jerusalem: death by pestilence, the sword, and scattering. This symbolism highlights the comprehensive nature of the coming judgment. 3. Covenant Unfaithfulness The theme of covenant unfaithfulness is central, as the people of Jerusalem have violated their covenant with God. Ezekiel 5:6 states, "Yet in her wickedness she has rebelled against My ordinances more wickedly than the nations and against My statutes more than the countries around her." The Hebrew term "בְּרִית" (berit) for covenant underscores the seriousness of their betrayal. 4. God’s Wrath and Fury The chapter vividly describes God's wrath and fury against Jerusalem. Ezekiel 5:13 says, "Then My anger will be fully vented, and My wrath against them will subside, and I will be avenged." The Hebrew word "חֵמָה" (chemah) for wrath conveys intense anger and divine retribution. 5. Consequences of Sin The consequences of sin are a major theme, as the chapter outlines the dire outcomes of Jerusalem's disobedience. The people face famine, pestilence, and sword as a result of their actions, illustrating the principle that sin leads to destruction. 6. God’s Sovereignty Throughout Ezekiel 5, God's sovereignty is evident as He declares and executes judgment. The chapter reinforces the idea that God is in control and that His purposes will be accomplished, as seen in His declarations and the fulfillment of His warnings. 7. A Call to Repentance Implicit in the message of judgment is a call to repentance. While the chapter primarily focuses on the consequences of disobedience, it serves as a warning to turn back to God and seek His mercy, highlighting the possibility of restoration through repentance. Prayer Points Pray for a heart of repentance and a willingness to turn back to God in areas of disobedience. Ask for wisdom and courage to share the message of God's righteousness and the need for repentance with others. Seek God's guidance in understanding His justice and trusting His plans, even when they involve discipline. Pray for the strength to remain faithful and obedient to God's commands, avoiding the pitfalls of rebellion. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Ezekiel 5:10, how can extreme acts like cannibalism be historically verified or reconciled with known records of siege conditions? 2. In Ezekiel 5:2–4, does the command to burn, scatter, and bind hair contradict other biblical teachings on ritual purity or symbolism? 3. Given Ezekiel 5:5–6, is there archeological or historical evidence to confirm the severe judgment described against Jerusalem? 4. In Ezekiel 5:11–12, how can we reconcile the promised devastating punishment (famine, sword, and scattering) with accounts from other biblical or secular sources? 5. Does Ezekiel 5:13’s portrayal of God’s “fury” conflict with depictions of divine mercy elsewhere in the Bible? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the symbolic action of Ezekiel in verses 1-4 illustrate the forthcoming judgment on Jerusalem? 2. What do you think the "center of the nations" (verse 5) means? Why is this significant? 3. How does Jerusalem's rebellion against God's laws compare to the rebellion in our society today? Provide specific examples. 4. What was unique about the severity of the judgment that God was going to inflict on Jerusalem (verses 9-17)? 5. How does the concept of Divine Judgment manifest in your understanding of God? 6. In what ways does the judgement on Jerusalem challenge or affirm your view of God’s love and justice? 7. How can we respond to the realities of Divine Judgment as believers in the 21st century? 8. How can the lessons from Ezekiel 5 guide our personal lives and relationships with others? 9. In what ways are we like the people of Jerusalem in this chapter? 10. How does the severity of God’s impending judgment impact your understanding of the consequences of sin? 11. How does the story of God sparing a remnant (a few hairs) relate to His mercy? 12. How does the description of the judgment evoke a sense of repentance and reliance on God's grace? 13. What actions in your life might be seen as rebellious against God's commandments? 14. How might God’s actions in Ezekiel 5 influence your decision-making process in daily life? 15. What is the relevance of this chapter to the broader narrative of the book of Ezekiel? 16. How can this chapter help us navigate times of disobedience and rebellion in our society? 17. How does Ezekiel 5 speak to current societal issues? Can you make any direct applications? 18. In the face of judgment, where can hope be found according to the book of Ezekiel? 19. How does the statement "I will be comforted" (verse 13) reflect God's character? 20. What does Ezekiel 5 teach us about our responsibilities as believers in a rebellious society? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions