Ezekiel 29:21

In that day I will cause a horn to sprout for the house of Israel, and I will open your mouth to speak among them. Then they will know that I am the LORD."

Study Bible

On that day
This phrase often signifies a specific time of divine intervention or fulfillment of prophecy. In the context of Ezekiel, it points to a future moment when God's promises will be realized. The Hebrew term "בַּיּ֣וֹם הַה֔וּא" (bayyom hahu) is frequently used in prophetic literature to denote a significant event orchestrated by God, emphasizing His sovereignty over time and history.

I will cause a horn to sprout
The "horn" in biblical symbolism often represents strength, power, or a king. The Hebrew word "קֶ֣רֶן" (qeren) is used here, which can denote a physical horn or metaphorically signify power or authority. In this context, it suggests the emergence of a leader or a resurgence of strength for Israel. This imagery is consistent with other biblical passages where a horn symbolizes the rise of a powerful figure or the restoration of a nation.

for the house of Israel
This phrase identifies the recipient of God's promise. The "house of Israel" refers to the collective people of Israel, God's chosen nation. Historically, this term encompasses both the northern kingdom (Israel) and the southern kingdom (Judah), highlighting God's ongoing covenant relationship with His people despite their past disobedience and exile.

and I will open your mouth among them
Here, God promises to empower Ezekiel to speak His words to the people. The phrase "open your mouth" signifies the restoration of prophetic speech, indicating that Ezekiel will once again be able to communicate God's messages. This is significant because earlier in Ezekiel's ministry, God had made him mute as a sign to the people (Ezekiel 3:26-27). The restoration of speech symbolizes a renewed opportunity for the people to hear and respond to God's word.

Then they will know that I am the LORD
This concluding phrase underscores the ultimate purpose of God's actions: to reveal His identity and sovereignty to His people. The repeated use of this phrase throughout Ezekiel emphasizes the central theme of the book—God's desire for His people to recognize and acknowledge Him as the one true God. The Hebrew "יְהוָֽה" (YHWH) is the sacred name of God, highlighting His eternal and unchanging nature. This revelation is intended to lead to repentance, faith, and a restored relationship with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who ministered to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. He is the mouthpiece through whom God delivers His messages.

2. House of Israel
Refers to the people of Israel, God's chosen nation, who are in exile due to their disobedience but are promised restoration.

3. Horn
Symbolically represents strength, power, and victory. In this context, it signifies the restoration and empowerment of Israel.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal presence and faithfulness to His promises.

5. Babylonian Exile
The period when the Israelites were taken captive by Babylon, a significant event in Israel's history that serves as the backdrop for Ezekiel's prophecies.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Faithfulness
God is in control of history and fulfills His promises, even when circumstances seem dire.

Symbolism of the Horn
The horn represents God's power and the hope of restoration. Believers can trust in God's strength to bring about His purposes.

Role of the Prophet
Ezekiel's role as God's mouthpiece highlights the importance of speaking God's truth, even in challenging times.

Recognition of the LORD
The ultimate goal of God's actions is that people will know Him as the LORD. Our lives should reflect His glory and lead others to recognize His sovereignty.

Hope in Restoration
Just as Israel was promised restoration, believers today can hold onto the hope of spiritual renewal and redemption through Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the "horn" in Ezekiel 29:21 relate to the concept of strength and victory in your personal life?

2. In what ways can you be a "mouthpiece" for God in your community, similar to Ezekiel's role among the Israelites?

3. How does understanding God's sovereignty and faithfulness in Ezekiel 29:21 encourage you in times of personal exile or difficulty?

4. What are some practical ways you can help others recognize the LORD in your daily interactions?

5. How does the promise of restoration in Ezekiel 29:21 connect to the hope offered through Jesus Christ in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 132:17
This verse also uses the imagery of a "horn" to symbolize the strength and future hope for the house of David, connecting to the messianic promise.

Luke 1:69
In the New Testament, the "horn of salvation" is mentioned in reference to Jesus Christ, linking the Old Testament promise to its fulfillment in the New Testament.

Ezekiel 3:27
Earlier in Ezekiel, God promises to open the prophet's mouth, which parallels the promise in 29:21, emphasizing God's control over prophetic speech.