Ezekiel 24:11

Authorized King James Version

Then set it empty upon the coals thereof, that the brass of it may be hot, and may burn, and that the filthiness of it may be molten in it, that the scum of it may be consumed.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְהַעֲמִידֶ֥הָ
Then set
to stand, in various relations (literal and figurative, intransitive and transitive)
#2
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#3
גֶּחָלֶ֖יהָ
upon the coals
an ember
#4
רֵקָ֑ה
it empty
empty; figuratively, worthless
#5
לְמַ֨עַן
properly, heed, i.e., purpose; used only adverbially, on account of (as a motive or an aim), teleologically, in order that
#6
תֵּחַ֜ם
of it may be hot
probably to be hot; figuratively, to conceive
#7
וְחָ֣רָה
and may burn
to glow, i.e., literally (to melt, burn, dry up) or figuratively (to show or incite passion)
#8
נְחֻשְׁתָּ֗הּ
thereof that the brass
copper, hence, something made of that metal, i.e., coin, a fetter; figuratively, base (as compared with gold or silver)
#9
וְנִתְּכָ֤ה
of it may be molten
to flow forth (literally or figuratively); by implication, to liquify
#10
בְתוֹכָהּ֙
in it
a bisection, i.e., (by implication) the center
#11
טֻמְאָתָ֔הּ
and that the filthiness
religious impurity
#12
תִּתֻּ֖ם
of it may be consumed
to complete, in a good or a bad sense, literal, or figurative, transitive or intransitive
#13
חֶלְאָתָֽהּ׃
that the scum
properly, disease; hence, rust

Analysis

Within the broader context of Ezekiel, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

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