Ezekiel 44:18

Authorized King James Version

They shall have linen bonnets upon their heads, and shall have linen breeches upon their loins; they shall not gird themselves with any thing that causeth sweat.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
פַּאֲרֵ֤י
bonnets
an embellishment, i.e., fancy head-dress
#2
פִשְׁתִּ֔ים
They shall have linen
linen (i.e., the thread, as carded)
#3
יִהְי֣וּ
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#4
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#5
רֹאשָׁ֔ם
upon their heads
the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)
#6
וּמִכְנְסֵ֣י
breeches
(only in dual) drawers (from concealing the private parts)
#7
פִשְׁתִּ֔ים
They shall have linen
linen (i.e., the thread, as carded)
#8
יִהְי֖וּ
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#9
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#10
מָתְנֵיהֶ֑ם
upon their loins
properly, the waist or small of the back; only in plural the loins
#11
לֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#12
יַחְגְּר֖וּ
they shall not gird
to gird on (as a belt, armor, etc.)
#13
בַּיָּֽזַע׃
themselves with any thing that causeth sweat
sweat, i.e., (by implication) a sweating dress

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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