Ezekiel 26:1

In the eleventh month of the twelfth year, on the first day of the month, the word of the LORD came to me, saying,

Study Bible

In the eleventh month of the twelfth year,
This phrase situates the prophecy within a specific historical context. The twelfth year likely refers to the twelfth year of King Jehoiachin's exile, which would be around 586 BC. This was a significant period in Israel's history, as it was the year Jerusalem fell to the Babylonians. The eleventh month corresponds to the Hebrew month of Shebat, which falls around January-February in the Gregorian calendar. This timing is crucial as it places the prophecy shortly after the fall of Jerusalem, a time of great turmoil and reflection for the Israelites.

on the first day of the month,
The specificity of the date underscores the importance of the message. In the Hebrew calendar, the first day of the month was often a time for new beginnings and reflection, marked by the New Moon festival. This would have been a time when the people were particularly attentive to divine messages. The precision of the date also highlights the prophetic nature of Ezekiel's message, emphasizing that it is a direct revelation from God.

the word of the LORD came to me, saying,
This phrase indicates the divine origin of the message. The "word of the LORD" is a common expression in the prophetic books, signifying that the message is not from the prophet's own imagination but is a direct communication from God. This establishes the authority and authenticity of the prophecy. In the context of Ezekiel, who was both a priest and a prophet, this phrase also reinforces his role as a mediator between God and the people. The phrase "came to me" suggests a personal and direct encounter with the divine, emphasizing the intimate relationship between God and His chosen messenger.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God, Ezekiel was among the exiles in Babylon. His prophecies often included visions and symbolic actions.

2. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who communicates His messages to His people through prophets like Ezekiel.

3. The Eleventh Year
This refers to the eleventh year of King Jehoiachin's exile, which helps to date the prophecy historically.

4. The First Day of the Month
This specific timing indicates the precision and importance of the message being delivered.

5. The Word of the LORD
This phrase signifies divine revelation, emphasizing that the message is not from Ezekiel himself but from God.

Teaching Points

The Sovereignty of God
God's control over history is evident as He speaks through Ezekiel at a specific time. This reminds us that God is sovereign over all events and timelines.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets are God's messengers, tasked with delivering His word to the people. This underscores the importance of listening to and heeding God's messages today, as revealed in Scripture.

The Importance of Timing
The precise dating of the prophecy highlights the importance of God's timing. We are reminded to trust in God's perfect timing in our own lives.

Judgment and Accountability
The prophecy against Tyre, which follows this verse, serves as a reminder that nations and individuals are accountable to God. We should live with an awareness of our accountability to Him.

The Faithfulness of God's Word
The fulfillment of prophecies, such as those against Tyre, demonstrates the faithfulness and reliability of God's word. We can trust His promises and warnings.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the historical context of Ezekiel's prophecy enhance our comprehension of its message?

2. In what ways does the sovereignty of God, as seen in the precise timing of this prophecy, impact your trust in His plans for your life?

3. How can we discern and respond to God's messages in our lives today, similar to how the people were expected to respond to the prophets?

4. What lessons can we learn from the judgment of Tyre that apply to our personal and communal accountability before God?

5. How does the faithfulness of God's word, as demonstrated in fulfilled prophecies, encourage you in your daily walk with Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 25
This chapter provides context for the Babylonian exile and the judgment against nations, including Tyre, which is the subject of Ezekiel 26.

Isaiah 23
Isaiah also prophesies against Tyre, providing a broader biblical context for understanding God's judgment on this city.

2 Kings 24
This passage details the exile of Jehoiachin, providing historical context for the timing of Ezekiel's prophecy.