Ezekiel 20:1
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Ezekiel 20:1
1 And it came to pass in the seventh year, in the fifth month, the tenth day of the month, that certain of the elders of Israel came to enquire of the LORD, and sat before me.
Chapter Context
Ezekiel 20 is a prophetic vision chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, worship, love. Written during the Babylonian exile (c. 593-570 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ministered to exiles in Babylon with visions of God's glory and future restoration.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-49: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Ezekiel and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Ezekiel 20:1
1 And it came to pass in the seventh year, in the fifth month, the tenth day of the month, that certain of the elders of Israel came to enquire of the LORD, and sat before me.
Analysis
'And it came to pass in the seventh year, in the fifth month, the tenth day of the month, that certain of the elders of Israel came to enquire of the LORD, and sat before me.' Precise dating (August 591 BC) marks this as a significant prophetic moment. Elders come to 'enquire of the LORD' (darash YHWH) through Ezekiel, seeking divine guidance. Their sitting before the prophet indicates formal consultation. However, God will refuse to be inquired of because of their persistent idolatry.
Historical Context
This was six years into Ezekiel's ministry and five years after the first deportation (597 BC). The elders still hoped for Jerusalem's deliverance and quick return from exile. They sought prophetic reassurance while continuing in idolatry—wanting God's blessing without repentance.
Reflection
- How do we sometimes seek God's guidance while clinging to sin?
- What does God's refusal to answer teach about the prerequisites for divine consultation?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Ezekiel 8:1, 24:1, 26:1, 29:1, 29:17, 30:20
- Parallel theme: Ezekiel 1:2