Ezekiel 20:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Ezekiel 20:5
5 And say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; In the day when I chose Israel, and lifted up mine hand unto the seed of the house of Jacob, and made myself known unto them in the land of Egypt, when I lifted up mine hand unto them, saying, I am the LORD your God;
Chapter Context
Ezekiel 20 is a prophetic vision chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of truth, judgment, mercy. 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 illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. 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 20:5
5 And say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; In the day when I chose Israel, and lifted up mine hand unto the seed of the house of Jacob, and made myself known unto them in the land of Egypt, when I lifted up mine hand unto them, saying, I am the LORD your God;
Analysis
'And say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; In the day when I chose Israel, and lifted up mine hand unto the seed of the house of Jacob, and made myself known unto them in the land of Egypt, when I lifted up mine hand unto them, saying, I am the LORD your God.' This begins the historical review. God 'chose' (bachar) Israel—divine election, not human merit. 'Lifted up mine hand' signifies oath-taking. God's self-revelation in Egypt ('made myself known') and covenant formula ('I am the LORD your God') established relationship. Grace initiated the covenant.
Historical Context
The Egyptian period (Genesis 46-Exodus 12) saw Israel grow from 70 to perhaps 2 million. God revealed Himself to Moses (Exodus 3-4) and performed signs, demonstrating His power over Egyptian gods. The Passover and exodus demonstrated covenant faithfulness to Abraham's descendants.
Reflection
- How does remembering God's initiative in salvation prevent pride?
- What does God's self-revelation in Egypt teach about His character and covenant faithfulness?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- References Lord: Exodus 4:31
- References God: Genesis 14:22, Deuteronomy 7:6
- References Egypt: Exodus 3:8
- Parallel theme: Ezekiel 20:15, 20:23, 47:14