Ezekiel 19:6

He prowled among the lions, and became a young lion. After learning to tear his prey, he devoured men.

Study Bible

He prowled among the lions
The phrase "He prowled among the lions" evokes the image of a young lion moving stealthily and confidently among other lions. In the Hebrew context, the word for "prowled" suggests a sense of moving with purpose and intent. This imagery is often used to describe leaders or rulers who are ambitious and assertive. Historically, lions were symbols of power and royalty in the ancient Near East, and this metaphor would have been understood by Ezekiel's audience as a depiction of a leader who is growing in strength and influence among other powerful figures.

and he became a young lion
The transformation into "a young lion" signifies a coming of age or reaching a stage of maturity and strength. In Hebrew, the term for "young lion" (כְּפִיר, kephir) is often used to describe a lion in its prime, full of vigor and potential. This reflects the development of a leader who is not only part of the pride but is also emerging as a dominant force. In the biblical narrative, this can be seen as a warning about the rise of leaders who may become tyrannical or oppressive, as they grow in power without the wisdom or restraint that should accompany it.

He learned to tear his prey
The phrase "He learned to tear his prey" indicates a process of acquiring skills necessary for survival and dominance. The Hebrew root for "tear" (טָרַף, taraph) implies a violent and aggressive action, often associated with predation. This suggests that the leader has not only gained strength but has also adopted ruthless tactics to achieve his goals. In a spiritual or moral sense, this can be interpreted as a caution against leaders who use their power destructively, preying on the weak rather than protecting them.

he devoured men
Finally, "he devoured men" is a stark and sobering conclusion to the verse. The Hebrew word for "devoured" (אָכַל, akal) conveys a sense of consuming or destroying completely. This imagery is a powerful indictment of leaders who exploit and oppress their people, leading to their ruin. In the broader scriptural context, this serves as a warning against the corrupting influence of power and the moral decay that can result when leaders prioritize their own gain over the welfare of those they are meant to serve.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the author of the book. He delivers God's messages to the Israelites, often using vivid imagery and allegory.

2. Young Lion
Symbolically represents the leaders or princes of Israel, particularly those who were aggressive and destructive in their rule.

3. Lions
In this context, lions symbolize powerful rulers or nations. The young lion learning to prowl among them suggests a leader adopting the ways of other powerful, often oppressive, rulers.

4. Prey
Represents the people or nations that the young lion (leader) oppresses or destroys.

5. Men
Refers to the victims of the young lion's aggression, symbolizing the people who suffer under unjust leadership.

Teaching Points

Leadership and Responsibility
Leaders have a significant impact on those they govern. Like the young lion, leaders can choose to protect and nurture or to oppress and destroy. Christian leaders are called to follow Christ's example of servant leadership.

Influence of Surroundings
The young lion learned from other lions. This highlights the importance of the company we keep and the influences we allow in our lives. Christians are encouraged to surround themselves with godly influences.

Consequences of Sinful Behavior
The young lion's destructive behavior leads to judgment. This serves as a reminder that sin has consequences, and unchecked aggression or pride can lead to downfall.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
Despite the young lion's power, God remains sovereign and will bring justice. Believers can trust in God's ultimate authority and justice.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of a young lion in Ezekiel 19:6 reflect the behavior and consequences of Israel's leaders during Ezekiel's time?

2. In what ways can Christian leaders today ensure they are leading with integrity and not becoming like the young lion in Ezekiel 19:6?

3. How does the company we keep influence our behavior, as seen in the young lion learning from other lions? What steps can we take to ensure positive influences in our lives?

4. Compare the destructive lion in Ezekiel 19:6 with the Lion of Judah in Revelation 5:5. What characteristics of Christ's leadership can we emulate in our own lives?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced or witnessed the consequences of sinful behavior. How did this experience shape your understanding of God's justice and mercy?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 49:9
This verse also uses the imagery of a lion to describe Judah, highlighting the tribe's strength and leadership, which can be both protective and destructive.

Jeremiah 4:7
Similar imagery is used to describe a lion coming out of its thicket, symbolizing impending judgment and destruction.

Revelation 5:5
The Lion of the tribe of Judah is a title for Christ, contrasting the destructive lion imagery with one of righteous and redemptive power.