Ezekiel 17:2
Son of man, put forth a riddle, and speak a parable unto the house of Israel;
Original Language Analysis
בֶּן
Son
H1121
בֶּן
Son
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
1 of 9
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
of man
H120
אָדָ֕ם
of man
Strong's:
H120
Word #:
2 of 9
ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)
ח֥וּד
put forth
H2330
ח֥וּד
put forth
Strong's:
H2330
Word #:
3 of 9
properly, to tie a knot, i.e., (figuratively) to propound a riddle
חִידָ֖ה
a riddle
H2420
חִידָ֖ה
a riddle
Strong's:
H2420
Word #:
4 of 9
a puzzle, hence, a trick, conundrum, sententious maxim
וּמְשֹׁ֣ל
and speak
H4911
וּמְשֹׁ֣ל
and speak
Strong's:
H4911
Word #:
5 of 9
to liken, i.e., (transitively) to use figurative language (an allegory, adage, song or the like); intransitively, to resemble
מָשָׁ֑ל
a parable
H4912
מָשָׁ֑ל
a parable
Strong's:
H4912
Word #:
6 of 9
properly, a pithy maxim, usually of metaphorical nature; hence, a simile (as an adage, poem, discourse)
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature frequently employed riddles and parables. Israel's prophets adapted this cultural form to communicate covenant truths, engaging audiences intellectually and spiritually.
Questions for Reflection
- How teachable is your heart when approaching difficult or puzzling passages of Scripture?
- What spiritual preparation is necessary to receive divine revelation through God's Word?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Riddles and parables were common prophetic teaching methods that required spiritual discernment to understand (Matthew 13:10-17). The Hebrew 'mashal' encompasses proverbs, parables, and allegories. This teaching method reveals truth to receptive hearts while concealing it from the rebellious, demonstrating divine wisdom in communication.