Ezekiel 1:25

Authorized King James Version

And there was a voice from the firmament that was over their heads, when they stood, and had let down their wings.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיְהִי
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#2
ק֕וֹל
And there was a voice
a voice or sound
#3
מֵעַ֕ל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#4
לָרָקִ֖יעַ
from the firmament
properly, an expanse, i.e., the firmament or (apparently) visible arch of the sky
#5
אֲשֶׁ֣ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#6
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#7
רֹאשָׁ֑ם
that was over their heads
the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)
#8
בְּעָמְדָ֖ם
when they stood
to stand, in various relations (literal and figurative, intransitive and transitive)
#9
תְּרַפֶּ֥ינָה
and had let down
to slacken (in many applications, literal or figurative)
#10
כַנְפֵיהֶֽן׃
their wings
an edge or extremity; specifically (of a bird or army) a wing, (of a garment or bedclothing) a flap, (of the earth) a quarter, (of a building) a pinna

Analysis

Within the broader context of Ezekiel, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by establishing foundational concepts crucial to Ezekiel's theological argument.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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