Ezekiel 15:1
And the word of the LORD 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
And the word
H1697
דְבַר
And 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
Spoken during Ezekiel's Babylonian exile (593-571 BC), this message addressed Jerusalem's false confidence that her temple and covenant status would protect her from judgment despite persistent idolatry.
Questions for Reflection
- How does recognizing God as the source of all spiritual fruitfulness change your perspective on Christian service?
- What areas of your life might reflect presumption upon God's grace rather than genuine dependence?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
This prophetic formula introduces a parable about Israel as a vine, a common Old Testament metaphor (Psalm 80:8-16, Isaiah 5:1-7). The vine imagery emphasizes Israel's covenant relationship with God and her dependency on Him for fruitfulness. Unlike the parables of Jesus, Ezekiel's parables often carry judgment themes, revealing God's holiness and Israel's unfaithfulness.