Ezekiel 34:5

Authorized King James Version

And they were scattered, because there is no shepherd: and they became meat to all the beasts of the field, when they were scattered.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַתְּפוּצֶֽינָה׃
And they were scattered
to dash in pieces, literally or figuratively (especially to disperse)
#2
מִבְּלִ֣י
properly, failure, i.e., nothing or destruction; usually (with preposition) without, not yet, because not, as long as, etc
#3
רֹעֶ֑ה
because there is no shepherd
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
#4
וַתִּהְיֶ֧ינָה
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#5
לְאָכְלָ֛ה
and they became meat
food
#6
לְכָל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#7
חַיַּ֥ת
to all the beasts
alive; hence, raw (flesh); fresh (plant, water, year), strong; also (as noun, especially in the feminine singular and masculine plural) life (or livin
#8
הַשָּׂדֶ֖ה
of the field
a field (as flat)
#9
וַתְּפוּצֶֽינָה׃
And they were scattered
to dash in pieces, literally or figuratively (especially to disperse)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Ezekiel. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People