Ezekiel 15:2

Son of man, What is the vine tree more than any tree, or than a branch which is among the trees of the forest?

Word-by-Word Analysis

בֶּן

H1121

Son

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

אָדָ֕ם

H120

of man

ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)

מַה

H4100

properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and

יִּֽהְיֶ֥ה

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

בַּעֲצֵ֥י

H6086

more than any tree

a tree (from its firmness); hence, wood (plural sticks)

הַגֶּ֖פֶן

H1612

What is the vine

a vine (as twining), especially the grape

מִכָּל

H3605

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

בַּעֲצֵ֥י

H6086

more than any tree

a tree (from its firmness); hence, wood (plural sticks)

הַזְּמוֹרָ֕ה

H2156

or than a branch

a twig (as pruned)

#10

אֲשֶׁ֥ר

H834

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

#11

הָיָ֖ה

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

#12

בַּעֲצֵ֥י

H6086

more than any tree

a tree (from its firmness); hence, wood (plural sticks)

#13

הַיָּֽעַר׃

H3293

of the forest

a copse of bushes; hence, a forest; hence, honey in the comb (as hived in trees)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Ezekiel, this passage highlights salvation through rhetorical questioning that engages the reader. 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 building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Ezekiel.

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 practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?

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