And, behold, the glory of the God of Israel came from the way of the east: and his voice was like a noise of many waters: and the earth shined with his glory.
In Ezekiel's temple vision, he witnesses God's glory returning: 'And, behold, the glory of the God of Israel came from the way of the east: and his voice was like a noise of many waters: and the earth shined with his glory.' The glory that departed the temple (10:18-19, 11:23) now returns from the east—the same direction it departed. The 'noise of many waters' describes the thunderous sound accompanying divine presence (compare Revelation 1:15, 14:2, 19:6). The earth shining with God's glory depicts overwhelming radiance transforming the environment. This vision parallels Christ's transfiguration (Matthew 17:2) and anticipates the New Jerusalem needing no sun because God's glory illuminates it (Revelation 21:23). The return of glory validates restoration—God's presence with His people is fully restored.
Historical Context
God's glory departed the temple before Jerusalem's destruction (chapters 8-11), around 592 BC. The vision of glory's return came later in Ezekiel's ministry (circa 573 BC, Ezekiel 40:1). This assured exiles that despite the temple's physical destruction (586 BC), God would return to dwell with His people. The second temple, built by returned exiles (completed 516 BC), lacked the visible glory cloud that filled Solomon's temple (1 Kings 8:10-11), disappointing many (Haggai 2:3). Yet prophets assured that future glory would exceed former glory (Haggai 2:9). Ultimate fulfillment came when Jesus (God's glory incarnate, John 1:14) entered the second temple, and supremely when the Spirit filled the church at Pentecost (Acts 2), making believers God's temple (1 Corinthians 3:16).
Questions for Reflection
How does the promise of God's glory returning after judgment encourage you during seasons when His presence seems absent?
In what ways do you see God's glory dwelling with His people fulfilled in Christ and the church?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
In Ezekiel's temple vision, he witnesses God's glory returning: 'And, behold, the glory of the God of Israel came from the way of the east: and his voice was like a noise of many waters: and the earth shined with his glory.' The glory that departed the temple (10:18-19, 11:23) now returns from the east—the same direction it departed. The 'noise of many waters' describes the thunderous sound accompanying divine presence (compare Revelation 1:15, 14:2, 19:6). The earth shining with God's glory depicts overwhelming radiance transforming the environment. This vision parallels Christ's transfiguration (Matthew 17:2) and anticipates the New Jerusalem needing no sun because God's glory illuminates it (Revelation 21:23). The return of glory validates restoration—God's presence with His people is fully restored.