Ezekiel 34:20
Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD unto them; Behold, I, even I, will judge between the fat cattle and between the lean cattle.
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
Pre-exilic Judah (586 BC) witnessed extreme wealth disparity: affluent elites exploiting the poor. Prophets consistently condemned this injustice (Amos 2:6-7, Isaiah 10:1-2, Micah 2:1-2). The exile judged this oppression along with idolatry. God's promise to judge between fat and lean assured victims that He saw their suffering and would execute justice. The early church emphasized economic justice: sharing possessions (Acts 2:44-45), caring for widows (Acts 6:1-6), condemning exploitation (James 5:1-6). The principle guides Christian social ethics.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's promise to judge between rich oppressors and poor victims shape Christian economic ethics?
- What responsibility do affluent believers have toward economically vulnerable neighbors?
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Analysis & Commentary
"Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD unto them; Behold, I, even I, will judge between the fat cattle and between the lean cattle." The "fat cattle" represent exploitative leaders and wealthy oppressors; the "lean cattle" represent oppressed poor. God promises to vindicate victims and judge oppressors. This demonstrates divine justice: God sees economic exploitation and will hold perpetrators accountable. The gospel includes social justice—not as primary message but as fruit of righteousness. True religion requires both personal holiness and corporate justice, worship of God and compassion for neighbors.