Ezekiel 24:18
So I spake unto the people in the morning: and at even my wife died; and I did in the morning as I was commanded.
Original Language Analysis
וָאֲדַבֵּ֤ר
So I spake
H1696
וָאֲדַבֵּ֤ר
So I spake
Strong's:
H1696
Word #:
1 of 11
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
הָעָם֙
unto the people
H5971
הָעָם֙
unto the people
Strong's:
H5971
Word #:
3 of 11
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
בַּבֹּ֖קֶר
in the morning
H1242
בַּבֹּ֖קֶר
in the morning
Strong's:
H1242
Word #:
4 of 11
properly, dawn (as the break of day); generally, morning
וַתָּ֥מָת
died
H4191
וַתָּ֥מָת
died
Strong's:
H4191
Word #:
5 of 11
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill
וָאַ֥עַשׂ
and I did
H6213
וָאַ֥עַשׂ
and I did
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
8 of 11
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
בַּבֹּ֖קֶר
in the morning
H1242
בַּבֹּ֖קֶר
in the morning
Strong's:
H1242
Word #:
9 of 11
properly, dawn (as the break of day); generally, morning
Historical Context
Ezekiel frequently enacted prophetic signs: lying on his side (4:4-8), eating defiled food (4:9-17), shaving his head (5:1-4), and now refusing to mourn. Each sign provoked questions, creating opportunities to deliver God's word. Performance art served prophecy. The exiles learned to watch Ezekiel's actions for revelation.
Questions for Reflection
- How does unusual behavior create opportunities for gospel witness?
- What role does curiosity play in opening hearts to God's word?
- How should we use life's circumstances as occasions for testimony?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
And the people said unto me, Wilt thou not tell us what these things are to us, that thou doest so? shows the exiles recognized the prophetic significance. Ezekiel's bizarre behavior was obviously a sign, prompting their inquiry. This demonstrates the effectiveness of prophetic theater—unusual actions create curiosity and teachable moments. God uses the unexpected to capture attention. Then I answered them, The word of the LORD came unto me, saying begins his explanation. The sign will be interpreted, connecting personal tragedy to national catastrophe. Prophetic signs require explanation to be understood fully; mystery must be illuminated.