What is the meaning of Ezekiel 5:2?

Thou shalt burn with fire a third part in the midst of the city, when the days of the siege are fulfilled: and thou shalt take a third part, and smite about it with a knife: and a third part thou shalt scatter in the wind; and I will draw out a sword after them.

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Ezekiel 5:2 Bible Verse Meaning

Bible Verse Meaning and Commentary on Ezekiel 5:2

Ezekiel 5:2 states: "And a third part of thee shall die with the pestilence, and with famine shall they be consumed in the midst of thee: and a third part shall fall by the sword round about thee; and I will scatter a third part into all the winds, and I will draw out a sword after them."

Understanding Ezekiel 5:2

This verse is part of a prophetic warning from Ezekiel about the impending judgment God will bring upon Jerusalem and its inhabitants. Through vivid imagery and symbolic actions, Ezekiel communicates the severity of the consequences for sin and disobedience.

Commentary Insights

  • Matthew Henry:

    Henry emphasizes that this prophecy indicates severe judgment where only a remnant will survive. The divided fates—death by pestilence, famine, and the sword—illustrate the totality of God's judgment against a rebellious people.

  • Albert Barnes:

    Barnes notes the significance of the third parts mentioned in the verse. It highlights the systematic and thorough nature of the punishment as well as God's ultimate sovereignty over life and death. Barnes comments on the scattering of the survivors, representing both judgment and mercy, as a way of illustrating the widespread consequences of sin.

  • Adam Clarke:

    Clarke brings attention to the figurative language used by Ezekiel, indicating that the destruction is not just physical but also spiritual. He points out that this passage serves as a call to repentance, warning the people of the dire consequences of their unfaithfulness to God.

Spiritual Significance

The imagery of judgment found in Ezekiel 5:2 presents a stark reminder of the gravity of turning away from God. The partitioning of death signifies that judgment is certain and unavoidable for those who reject divine commandments. This profound message calls for reflection and repentance.

Application in Daily Life

In applying Ezekiel 5:2 to our lives, it serves as an invitation to self-examination regarding our relationship with God. We are encouraged to consider whether we are living in alignment with His commands and to seek forgiveness where we fall short. This verse also reminds us of the broader implications of sin within a community and the need for collective repentance.

Cross References

  • Jeremiah 16:4: A similar message concerning destruction due to sin.
  • Zechariah 13:8-9: The judgment of a remnant as a recurring theme in the prophetic texts.
  • Revelation 6:8: The imagery of death and judgment as a harbinger of end times, paralleling the fate described in Ezekiel.

Conclusion

Ezekiel 5:2 serves as a critical component of biblical prophecy, offering profound insights into God's judgment and the consequences of actions taken against His will. The interpretations and commentaries provide a comprehensive view of the historical and spiritual significance of this verse, enriching our Bible study insights and enhancing our understanding of Scripture.

Further Studies

For those looking to dive deeper into Bible verse explanations, utilizing Bible study tools and resources will further illuminate the profound messages found in Scripture. Exploring related Bible study topics or participating in online Bible study groups can enhance our grasp of challenging passages, such as Ezekiel 5:2.