Ezekiel 20:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Ezekiel 20:6
6 In the day that I lifted up mine hand unto them, to bring them forth of the land of Egypt into a land that I had espied for them, flowing with milk and honey, which is the glory of all lands:
Chapter Context
Ezekiel 20 is a prophetic vision chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, grace, prayer. 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 provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. 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 20:6
6 In the day that I lifted up mine hand unto them, to bring them forth of the land of Egypt into a land that I had espied for them, flowing with milk and honey, which is the glory of all lands:
Analysis
'In the day that I lifted up mine hand unto them, to bring them forth of the land of Egypt into a land that I had espied for them, flowing with milk and honey, which is the glory of all lands.' God's promise: deliverance from Egypt to the promised land. 'Land that I had espied' (tur) means 'scouted' or 'selected'—God's sovereign choice. 'Flowing with milk and honey' describes agricultural abundance. 'Glory of all lands' indicates supreme blessing. God's initiative, God's provision, God's gift.
Historical Context
The promise to Abraham (Genesis 12:1-3, 15:18-21) was renewed to Moses (Exodus 3:8, 17). Canaan's fertility is confirmed by archaeological and historical records. The phrase 'milk and honey' became proverbial for God's abundant provision.
Reflection
- How does God's promise of abundant provision affect our view of His goodness?
- What is the relationship between promised blessings and covenant obedience?
Word Studies
- Forgive: סָלַח / נָשָׂא (Salach / Nasa) H5375 - To forgive, pardon, lift up
Cross-References
- Glory: Ezekiel 20:15
- References Egypt: Exodus 3:8
- Parallel theme: Exodus 33:3, Psalms 48:2, Jeremiah 32:22, Daniel 8:9, Zechariah 7:14