Ezekiel 12:1
The word of the LORD also came unto me, saying,
Original Language Analysis
וַיְהִ֥י
H1961
וַיְהִ֥י
Strong's:
H1961
Word #:
1 of 5
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
דְבַר
The word
H1697
דְבַר
The word
Strong's:
H1697
Word #:
2 of 5
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
Historical Context
Dated to approximately 592-591 BC, this prophecy preceded Jerusalem's fall by 5-6 years. The exiles in Babylon believed Jerusalem would survive and they'd soon return. False prophets encouraged this delusion (Jeremiah 28-29). Ezekiel's sign-acts contradicted false hope, declaring that Jerusalem faced exile, not deliverance. Within years, the prophecy was vindicated when King Zedekiah was captured trying to escape besieged Jerusalem (2 Kings 25:4-7).
Questions for Reflection
- How does the prophetic formula establish Scripture's authority as divine communication?
- What comfort does divine initiative in revelation provide versus human religious speculation?
- In what ways should recognizing God as Scripture's source shape our reading and obedience?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The word of the LORD also came unto me, saying, The prophetic formula introduces another sign-act prophecy concerning exile. Chapter 12 contains dramatic enacted prophecies where Ezekiel performs symbolic actions representing Jerusalem's coming captivity. The formula's repetition (occurring over 50 times in Ezekiel) establishes each oracle's divine origin. God initiates revelation; the prophet receives and proclaims it faithfully.