Ezekiel 2:7

Authorized King James Version

And thou shalt speak my words unto them, whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear: for they are most rebellious.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְדִבַּרְתָּ֤

H1696

And thou shalt speak

perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue

אֶת

H853

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

דְּבָרַי֙

H1697

my words

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

אֲלֵיהֶ֔ם

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

אִֽם

H518

used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not

יִשְׁמְע֖וּ

H8085

unto them whether they will hear

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

וְאִם

H518

used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not

יֶחְדָּ֑לוּ

H2308

or whether they will forbear

properly, to be flabby, i.e., (by implication) desist; (figuratively) be lacking or idle

כִּ֥י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

#10

מְרִ֖י

H4805

for they are most rebellious

bitterness, i.e., (figuratively) rebellion; concretely, bitter, or rebellious

#11

הֵֽמָּה׃

H1992

they (only used when emphatic)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Ezekiel, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

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 does this verse's literary context within Ezekiel chapter 2 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

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