Ezekiel 20:17
Nevertheless mine eye spared them from destroying them, neither did I make an end of them in the wilderness.
Original Language Analysis
וַתָּ֧חָס
spared
H2347
וַתָּ֧חָס
spared
Strong's:
H2347
Word #:
1 of 9
properly, to cover, i.e., (figuratively) to compassionate
עֵינִ֛י
Nevertheless mine eye
H5869
עֵינִ֛י
Nevertheless mine eye
Strong's:
H5869
Word #:
2 of 9
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
עֲלֵיהֶ֖ם
H5921
עֲלֵיהֶ֖ם
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
3 of 9
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
מִֽשַּׁחֲתָ֑ם
them from destroying
H7843
מִֽשַּׁחֲתָ֑ם
them from destroying
Strong's:
H7843
Word #:
4 of 9
to decay, i.e., (causatively) ruin (literally or figuratively)
וְלֹֽא
H3808
וְלֹֽא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
5 of 9
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
עָשִׂ֧יתִי
them neither did I make
H6213
עָשִׂ֧יתִי
them neither did I make
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
6 of 9
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
אוֹתָ֛ם
H853
אוֹתָ֛ם
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
7 of 9
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
Cross References
Ezekiel 11:13And it came to pass, when I prophesied, that Pelatiah the son of Benaiah died. Then fell I down upon my face, and cried with a loud voice, and said, Ah Lord GOD! wilt thou make a full end of the remnant of Israel?Jeremiah 4:27For thus hath the LORD said, The whole land shall be desolate; yet will I not make a full end.Jeremiah 5:18Nevertheless in those days, saith the LORD, I will not make a full end with you.
Historical Context
Throughout the wilderness, God judged specific rebellions (Korah's company swallowed by earth, plague for Baal-Peor worship) while preserving the nation. The next generation—including Joshua's generation—entered the land. God's preservation ensured covenant continuity despite judgment on the unfaithful generation.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's mercy in preserving us despite deserving judgment demonstrate grace?
- What is the relationship between individual judgment and corporate preservation in God's economy?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
'Nevertheless mine eye spared them from destroying them, neither did I make an end of them in the wilderness.' Despite deserving destruction, God spared them. 'Mine eye spared them' anthropomorphizes God's mercy. 'Neither did I make an end of them' shows restraint. Though individuals died for specific sins, the nation survived. God's covenant faithfulness preserved a remnant even when judgment was deserved.