Ezekiel 14:5

That I may take the house of Israel in their own heart, because they are all estranged from me through their idols.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לְמַ֛עַן

H4616

properly, heed, i.e., purpose; used only adverbially, on account of (as a motive or an aim), teleologically, in order that

תְּפֹ֥שׂ

H8610

That I may take

to manipulate, i.e., seize; chiefly to capture, wield, specifically, to overlay; figuratively, to use unwarrantably

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

בֵּֽית

H1004

the house

a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)

יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל

H3478

of Israel

he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity

בְּלִבָּ֑ם

H3820

in their own heart

the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything

אֲשֶׁ֤ר

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

נָזֹ֙רוּ֙

H2114

because they are all estranged

to turn aside (especially for lodging); hence to be a foreigner, strange, profane; specifically (active participle) to commit adultery

מֵֽעָלַ֔י

H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

#10

בְּגִלּֽוּלֵיהֶ֖ם

H1544

from me through their idols

properly, a log (as round); by implication, an idol

#11

כֻּלָּֽם׃

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Ezekiel. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People

Ezekiel