Ezekiel 34:16

Authorized King James Version

I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but I will destroy the fat and the strong; I will feed them with judgment.

Word-by-Word Analysis

אֶת

H853

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

הָאֹבֶ֤דֶת

that which was lost

properly, to wander away, i.e., lose oneself; by implication to perish (causative, destroy)

אֲבַקֵּשׁ֙

H1245

I will seek

to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after

וְאֶת

H853

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

הַנִּדַּ֣חַת

H5080

that which was driven away

to push off; used in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively (to expel, mislead, strike, inflict, etc.)

אָשִׁ֔יב

H7725

and bring again

to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);

וְלַנִּשְׁבֶּ֣רֶת

H7665

that which was broken

to burst (literally or figuratively)

אֶחֱבֹ֔שׁ

H2280

and will bind up

to wrap firmly (especially a turban, compress, or saddle); figuratively, to stop, to rule

וְאֶת

H853

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

#10

הַחוֹלָ֖ה

H2470

that which was sick

properly, to be rubbed or worn; hence (figuratively) to stroke (in flattering), entreat

#11

אֲחַזֵּ֑ק

H2388

and will strengthen

to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate; to bind, restra

#12

וְאֶת

H853

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

#13

הַשְּׁמֵנָ֧ה

H8082

the fat

greasy, i.e., gross; figuratively, rich

#14

וְאֶת

H853

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

#15

הַחֲזָקָ֛ה

H2389

and the strong

strong (usu. in a bad sense, hard, bold, violent)

#16

אַשְׁמִ֖יד

H8045

but I will destroy

to desolate

#17

אֶרְעֶ֥נָּה

H7462

I will feed

to tend a flock; i.e., pasture it; intransitively, to graze (literally or figuratively); generally to rule; by extension, to associate with (as a frie

#18

בְמִשְׁפָּֽט׃

H4941

them with judgment

properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind

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

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?

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