Ezekiel 36:1

"And you, son of man, prophesy to the mountains of Israel and say: O mountains of Israel, hear the word of the LORD.

Study Bible

And you, son of man
The phrase "son of man" is a title used frequently in the book of Ezekiel, emphasizing the prophet's humanity and his role as a representative of mankind. In Hebrew, "ben adam" underscores the connection between the divine message and the human messenger. This title reminds us of the humility and obedience required of those who are called to speak God's truth. It also foreshadows the ultimate "Son of Man," Jesus Christ, who would come to fulfill God's promises.

prophesy
The act of prophesying involves delivering a message from God, often concerning future events or divine intentions. In Hebrew, the word "naba" means to speak or sing by inspiration. This command to prophesy indicates that Ezekiel is to declare God's will with authority and conviction. It is a reminder that God's word is living and active, meant to bring about transformation and hope.

to the mountains of Israel
The "mountains of Israel" symbolize the land itself, which holds significant historical and spiritual importance for the Jewish people. These mountains have witnessed the unfolding of God's covenant with Israel, from the giving of the Law to the establishment of the kingdom. By addressing the mountains, God is reaffirming His commitment to restore and bless the land, despite the people's past unfaithfulness.

and say
This directive emphasizes the importance of verbal proclamation in the prophetic ministry. The spoken word has power, as it is the means by which God communicates His will to His people. The command to "say" underscores the necessity of obedience in delivering God's message accurately and faithfully.

O mountains of Israel
The repetition of "mountains of Israel" serves to emphasize the focus of the prophecy. It is a call to attention, highlighting the significance of the message that follows. The mountains, as enduring witnesses to God's covenant, are personified to receive the divine word, symbolizing the restoration and renewal that God promises to His people.

hear the word of the LORD
This phrase is a call to listen and respond to God's message. In Hebrew, "shema" means to hear with the intent to obey. The "word of the LORD" is not merely information but a transformative power that demands a response. It is a reminder that God's promises are sure and His purposes will be accomplished. The call to hear is an invitation to trust in God's faithfulness and to anticipate the fulfillment of His promises.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is called by God to deliver messages to the people of Israel. His prophecies often include vivid imagery and symbolic actions.

2. Mountains of Israel
Symbolic of the land and people of Israel, the mountains represent the physical and spiritual restoration that God promises to His people.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who speaks through Ezekiel to convey His plans for restoration and judgment.

4. Babylonian Exile
The historical context in which Ezekiel prophesied, where the Israelites were taken captive by Babylon, leading to a period of reflection and hope for restoration.

5. Prophecy
The act of delivering God's message, often involving future events or divine promises, as seen in Ezekiel's role.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Faithfulness
Despite Israel's unfaithfulness, God remains committed to His covenant promises. This underscores His sovereignty and faithfulness, encouraging believers to trust in His plans.

Restoration and Hope
The prophecy to the mountains signifies God's intention to restore not just the land but also the spiritual state of His people. This offers hope for personal and communal renewal.

The Role of Prophecy
Prophecy serves as a reminder of God's active involvement in history and His desire to communicate with His people. Believers are encouraged to seek and heed God's word.

Symbolism in Scripture
Understanding the symbolic language, such as the "mountains of Israel," helps in grasping the deeper spiritual truths conveyed in the Bible.

Call to Hear and Obey
The command for the mountains to "hear the word of the LORD" is a call for all creation to respond to God's voice, urging believers to listen and obey His word.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the historical context of the Babylonian exile influence the message of Ezekiel 36:1, and what can we learn from it today?

2. In what ways does the prophecy to the "mountains of Israel" symbolize both physical and spiritual restoration? How can this apply to our personal lives?

3. How do the themes of restoration in Ezekiel 36 connect with the promises found in Jeremiah 31 and Isaiah 40?

4. What does Ezekiel 36:1 teach us about God's character, particularly His faithfulness and sovereignty, and how should this impact our daily walk with Him?

5. How can we, as modern believers, ensure that we are "hearing the word of the LORD" in our lives, and what practical steps can we take to obey His voice?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 11
The blessings and curses associated with obedience and disobedience to God's commands, which relate to the restoration themes in Ezekiel.

Isaiah 40
The comfort and promise of restoration for Israel, echoing the hope found in Ezekiel's prophecies.

Jeremiah 31
The new covenant and the promise of a restored relationship between God and His people, paralleling the themes in Ezekiel 36.