Ezekiel 1:3

the word of the LORD came directly to Ezekiel the priest, the son of Buzi, in the land of the Chaldeans by the River Kebar. And there the LORD's hand was upon him.

Study Bible

the word of the LORD came directly to Ezekiel the priest
Ezekiel is identified as a priest, which is significant because priests held a special role in Israelite society as mediators between God and the people. This background would have given Ezekiel a deep understanding of the temple, sacrifices, and the law, which are prominent themes in his prophecies. The phrase "the word of the LORD came" is a common prophetic formula indicating divine revelation. It underscores the authority and authenticity of Ezekiel's message as originating from God, not from human invention.

the son of Buzi
The mention of Buzi, Ezekiel's father, is unique to this book and provides a personal touch to the prophet's identity. While little is known about Buzi, the inclusion of his name may serve to authenticate Ezekiel's lineage and priestly heritage. It also connects Ezekiel to a specific family line, grounding his prophetic ministry in a historical context.

in the land of the Chaldeans
This phrase situates Ezekiel's ministry during the Babylonian exile, a period of great turmoil and transformation for the Israelites. The Chaldeans were a Semitic people who became the ruling class in Babylon. This geographical reference highlights the fulfillment of earlier prophecies about the Babylonian captivity (e.g., Jeremiah 25:11-12) and sets the stage for Ezekiel's messages of judgment and hope.

by the River Kebar
The River Kebar, likely a canal near the city of Nippur in Babylon, was a place where many exiled Jews settled. This location is significant as it represents the physical and spiritual displacement of the Israelites. It also serves as the backdrop for Ezekiel's visions and prophecies, emphasizing God's presence and activity even in foreign lands. The setting by the river may evoke imagery of exile and longing for the homeland, similar to the sentiments expressed in Psalm 137.

And there the LORD’s hand was upon him
The phrase "the LORD’s hand was upon him" indicates divine empowerment and guidance. It suggests that Ezekiel was under the direct influence and control of God, enabling him to receive and communicate God's messages. This expression is used throughout the book to signify moments of intense prophetic experience (e.g., Ezekiel 3:14, 37:1). It underscores the idea that Ezekiel's ministry was not self-initiated but was a response to God's sovereign call and purpose.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A priest and prophet, Ezekiel is the central figure in this verse. His name means "God strengthens," which is significant given the challenging messages he was tasked to deliver.

2. Buzi
Ezekiel's father, mentioned to establish Ezekiel's priestly lineage, which is important for understanding his role and authority.

3. Chaldeans
Refers to the Babylonians, indicating the location of the Jewish exile. This context is crucial for understanding the setting of Ezekiel's prophecies.

4. Kebar River
A canal near Babylon where the Jewish exiles, including Ezekiel, were settled. This location is significant as it is where Ezekiel receives his visions.

5. The Hand of the LORD
A phrase indicating divine empowerment and inspiration, suggesting that Ezekiel's message is directly from God.

Teaching Points

Divine Calling and Empowerment
Ezekiel's calling as a prophet emphasizes that God equips those He calls. We can trust that God will provide the strength and wisdom needed for the tasks He assigns us.

Faithfulness in Exile
Despite being in a foreign land, Ezekiel remains faithful to his calling. This teaches us to remain steadfast in our faith, even in challenging or unfamiliar circumstances.

The Importance of Spiritual Heritage
Ezekiel's priestly lineage underscores the value of spiritual heritage and upbringing. It reminds us to honor and build upon the faith traditions passed down to us.

God's Presence in Difficult Times
The phrase "the hand of the LORD was upon him" assures us that God's presence is with us, even in exile or hardship. We can find comfort and strength in His presence.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ezekiel's priestly background influence his role as a prophet, and what can we learn from this about the importance of our own spiritual heritage?

2. In what ways does the setting of exile in Babylon parallel challenges we face today, and how can we remain faithful in our own "exiles"?

3. How does the concept of "the hand of the LORD" being upon Ezekiel encourage us in our personal callings and ministries?

4. What other biblical figures received their calling in times of national crisis, and what can we learn from their responses?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Ezekiel's faithfulness and divine empowerment to our current life situations and challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 1:1-2
Similar to Ezekiel, Jeremiah also receives the word of the LORD, establishing a pattern of God calling prophets during times of national crisis.

Daniel 1:1-6
Provides context for the Babylonian exile, where Daniel and his friends are taken to Babylon, similar to Ezekiel's situation.

2 Kings 24:10-16
Describes the Babylonian conquest and exile, setting the historical backdrop for Ezekiel's ministry.