Ezekiel 4:17

That they may want bread and water, and be astonied one with another, and consume away for their iniquity.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לְמַ֥עַן

H4616

properly, heed, i.e., purpose; used only adverbially, on account of (as a motive or an aim), teleologically, in order that

יַחְסְר֖וּ

H2637

That they may want

to lack; by implication, to fail, want, lessen

לֶ֣חֶם

H3899

bread

food (for man or beast), especially bread, or grain (for making it)

וָמָ֑יִם

H4325

and water

water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen

וְנָשַׁ֙מּוּ֙

H8074

and be astonied

to stun (or intransitively, grow numb), i.e., devastate or (figuratively) stupefy (both usually in a passive sense)

אִ֣ישׁ

H376

one

a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)

וְאָחִ֔יו

H251

with another

a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])

וְנָמַ֖קּוּ

H4743

and consume away

to melt; figuratively, to flow, dwindle, vanish

בַּעֲוֺנָֽם׃

H5771

for their iniquity

perversity, i.e., (moral) evil

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

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 divine revelation in this particular way.

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?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about 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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