Ezekiel 33:32

Authorized King James Version

And, lo, thou art unto them as a very lovely song of one that hath a pleasant voice, and can play well on an instrument: for they hear thy words, but they do them not.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְהִנְּךָ֤
lo!; also (as expressing surprise) if
#2
לָהֶם֙
H0
#3
כְּשִׁ֣יר
song
a song; abstractly, singing
#4
עֲגָבִ֔ים
And lo thou art unto them as a very lovely
love (concretely), i.e., amative words
#5
יְפֵ֥ה
of one that hath a pleasant
beautiful (literally or figuratively)
#6
ק֖וֹל
voice
a voice or sound
#7
וּמֵטִ֣ב
and can play well
to be (transitively, do or make) good (or well) in the widest sense
#8
נַגֵּ֑ן
on an instrument
properly, to thrum, i.e., beat a tune with the fingers; expectation. to play on a stringed instrument; hence (generally), to make music
#9
וְשָֽׁמְעוּ֙
for they hear
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
#10
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#11
דְּבָרֶ֔יךָ
thy words
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
#12
וְעֹשִׂ֥ים
but they do
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#13
אֵינָ֖ם
a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle
#14
אוֹתָֽם׃
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Ezekiel, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of love connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about love, 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

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Ezekiel Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes love in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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