Ezekiel 4:17

So they will lack food and water; they will be appalled at the sight of one another wasting away in their iniquity.

Study Bible

So they will lack food and water
This phrase highlights the dire consequences of disobedience to God. The Hebrew root for "lack" is "ḥāsēr," which conveys a sense of deficiency or want. In the historical context of Ezekiel, this prophecy was a warning to the Israelites of the impending siege of Jerusalem, where scarcity of resources would be a harsh reality. The lack of food and water symbolizes not only physical deprivation but also spiritual famine, as turning away from God leads to a lack of spiritual nourishment.

they will be appalled at the sight of one another
The word "appalled" comes from the Hebrew "šāmēm," which means to be desolate or astonished. This phrase paints a vivid picture of the horror and disbelief that will grip the people as they witness the effects of their collective sin. The sight of one another in such a destitute state serves as a mirror reflecting the consequences of their iniquity. Historically, this would have been a common reaction during sieges, where the breakdown of social order and the visible suffering of neighbors would be shocking and disheartening.

and waste away in their iniquity
The phrase "waste away" is derived from the Hebrew "māqaq," indicating decay or dissolution. This is a powerful metaphor for the spiritual and physical deterioration that results from persistent sin. "Iniquity" here refers to moral perversity or guilt, emphasizing the just nature of God's judgment. Theologically, this serves as a sobering reminder of the wages of sin, as described in Romans 6:23. The historical context of Ezekiel's prophecy underscores the reality that turning away from God's commandments leads to inevitable decline and destruction.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. Known for his symbolic actions and visions.

2. Israelites
The people of God who are in exile due to their disobedience and idolatry. They are the primary audience of Ezekiel's prophecies.

3. Babylonian Exile
The period when the Israelites were taken captive by Babylon, serving as a backdrop for Ezekiel's prophecies.

4. Jerusalem
The city that is under siege, symbolized by Ezekiel's actions, representing the spiritual and physical desolation due to sin.

5. Iniquity
The sin and moral corruption of the Israelites, which leads to their suffering and exile.

Teaching Points

Consequences of Sin
Sin leads to spiritual and physical desolation. Just as the Israelites faced scarcity due to their iniquity, we too face consequences when we turn away from God.

Symbolism of Hunger and Thirst
Physical hunger and thirst in the Bible often symbolize spiritual need. We must recognize our spiritual hunger and seek fulfillment in God.

Community Impact of Sin
The Israelites' iniquity affected the entire community. Our actions have communal consequences, and we must strive for righteousness to bless those around us.

Call to Repentance
The dire conditions described are a call to repentance. We must turn from our sins and seek God's forgiveness and restoration.

Hope in God's Provision
Despite the judgment, there is hope in God's promise to restore and provide for His people when they return to Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ezekiel 4:17 illustrate the consequences of turning away from God, and how can we apply this understanding to our lives today?

2. In what ways do the physical conditions described in Ezekiel 4:17 reflect spiritual realities, and how can we address spiritual hunger in our lives?

3. How does the communal aspect of sin in Ezekiel 4:17 challenge us to consider the impact of our actions on our community and church?

4. What steps can we take to heed the call to repentance found in Ezekiel 4:17, and how can we encourage others to do the same?

5. How can the promise of spiritual fulfillment in Matthew 5:6 inspire us to seek God amidst the "hunger and thirst" described in Ezekiel 4:17?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 26:26
This verse speaks of a similar consequence of disobedience, where bread will be rationed, and people will eat but not be satisfied, highlighting the theme of scarcity due to sin.

Deuteronomy 28:48
Discusses the curses of disobedience, including hunger and thirst, which parallels the conditions described in Ezekiel 4:17.

Lamentations 4:4-5
Describes the dire conditions during the siege of Jerusalem, where children and nobles alike suffer from hunger and thirst.

Isaiah 51:20
Illustrates the desolation and fainting of the people due to God's judgment, similar to the wasting away mentioned in Ezekiel.

Matthew 5:6
Offers a contrast with the promise of blessing for those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, pointing to spiritual fulfillment in Christ.