Ezekiel 35:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Ezekiel 35:6
6 Therefore, as I live, saith the Lord GOD, I will prepare thee unto blood, and blood shall pursue thee: sith thou hast not hated blood, even blood shall pursue thee.
Chapter Context
Ezekiel 35 is a prophetic vision chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of love, creation, righteousness. 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 13-15: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. 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 35:6
6 Therefore, as I live, saith the Lord GOD, I will prepare thee unto blood, and blood shall pursue thee: sith thou hast not hated blood, even blood shall pursue thee.
Analysis
The judgment fits the crime: 'I will prepare thee unto blood, and blood shall pursue thee: since thou hast not hated blood, blood shall pursue thee.' This lex talionis (law of retaliation) demonstrates proportionate justice. Those who delight in bloodshed will experience bloodshed. God's judgments are always righteous and fitting.
Historical Context
Edom's violence toward vulnerable refugees brought corresponding violence upon themselves. Historical records show Edom suffered military defeats and eventual ethnic dissolution—they pursued blood and blood pursued them.
Reflection
- How do you see the principle of reaping what you sow operating in God's justice?
- What warning does this give about the consequences of cruelty or violence toward vulnerable people?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Obadiah 1:15
- Blood: Revelation 18:24