Ezekiel 5:3

But you are to take a few strands of hair and secure them in the folds of your garment.

Study Bible

But you are to take
This phrase indicates a direct command from God to the prophet Ezekiel. The Hebrew root for "take" is "laqach," which often implies receiving or seizing something with intention. In the context of Ezekiel's prophetic actions, this command underscores the deliberate and purposeful nature of God's instructions. It reflects the seriousness with which God communicates His messages through His prophets, emphasizing the importance of obedience and attention to detail in fulfilling divine directives.

a few strands of hair
The "strands of hair" symbolize a remnant, a small portion set apart from the whole. In Hebrew culture, hair often represented strength and identity, as seen in the account of Samson. Here, the few strands signify the remnant of Israel that God will preserve despite the coming judgment. This imagery is consistent with the biblical theme of God always maintaining a faithful remnant, a concept that offers hope and assurance of God's enduring covenant with His people.

and secure them
The act of securing the strands of hair suggests protection and preservation. The Hebrew word "tsarar" can mean to bind or to treasure, indicating that what is being secured is of value. This action symbolizes God's protective care over the remnant of His people, ensuring their survival amidst the impending destruction. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and His ability to safeguard those who remain true to Him.

in the folds of your garment
The garment represents covering and protection. In ancient Near Eastern culture, garments were often used to signify one's status and identity. By placing the strands of hair in the folds of his garment, Ezekiel is enacting a symbolic gesture of God's sheltering presence over His chosen remnant. This imagery aligns with the biblical motif of God as a refuge and fortress, providing comfort and security to His people. It also reflects the intimate relationship between God and His people, as garments were personal and close to the body, symbolizing God's nearness and care.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Jerusalem
The city that is the focal point of Ezekiel's prophecies, representing the spiritual and physical center of the Israelites.

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

4. Symbolic Action
Ezekiel's act of taking a few strands of hair and securing them in his garment symbolizes God's preservation of a remnant of His people.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness to Preserve a Remnant
Despite judgment, God remains faithful to His covenant by preserving a remnant, symbolized by the few strands of hair. This teaches us about God's unwavering commitment to His promises.

Symbolism in Prophetic Actions
Ezekiel's actions are rich in symbolism, reminding us to seek deeper spiritual truths in God's Word and to understand His messages beyond the literal.

Hope Amidst Judgment
The preservation of a remnant offers hope that God’s plans for His people include restoration and redemption, even when facing severe consequences for sin.

Personal Reflection on Being Part of the Remnant
Believers are encouraged to reflect on their own faithfulness and commitment to God, aspiring to be part of the remnant that remains true to Him.

The Importance of Obedience
Ezekiel's obedience in performing symbolic acts underscores the importance of following God's instructions, even when they seem unusual or challenging.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a remnant in Ezekiel 5:3 provide hope for believers today?

2. In what ways can we see God's faithfulness in preserving a remnant throughout biblical history and in our own lives?

3. How can we apply the symbolism of Ezekiel's actions to our understanding of God's messages in the Bible?

4. What are some modern-day examples of being part of a faithful remnant in a world that often turns away from God?

5. How can we ensure that we are obedient to God's instructions, even when they seem difficult or counter-cultural?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 6:13
This verse speaks of a remnant that will remain, similar to the few strands of hair Ezekiel secures, symbolizing hope and continuity for God's people.

Romans 11:5
Paul speaks of a remnant chosen by grace, connecting to the idea of God preserving a faithful group even in times of judgment.

Zechariah 13:8-9
This passage discusses the refining of a remnant, paralleling the preservation and purification themes in Ezekiel's symbolic act.