Ezekiel 17:6

It sprouted and became a spreading vine, low in height, with branches turned toward him; yet its roots remained where it stood. So it became a vine and yielded branches and sent out shoots.

Study Bible

It sprouted and became a spreading vine
This phrase symbolizes the initial growth and expansion of the kingdom of Judah under the influence of Babylon. The vine represents the people of Judah, who were allowed to remain in their land and experience some prosperity despite being under Babylonian control. The imagery of a vine is often used in Scripture to depict Israel (Psalm 80:8-11, Isaiah 5:1-7), emphasizing growth and potential for fruitfulness.

low in height
The vine being "low in height" indicates Judah's subservient position under Babylonian rule. Although they were allowed to grow, their autonomy and power were limited. This reflects the historical context of Judah's vassal status after King Jehoiachin was taken to Babylon and Zedekiah was installed as a puppet king (2 Kings 24:17).

with branches turned toward him
The branches turning toward "him" signifies Judah's allegiance to Babylon, represented by King Nebuchadnezzar. This allegiance was politically necessary for survival, as Zedekiah had sworn an oath of loyalty to Nebuchadnezzar (2 Chronicles 36:13). The turning of branches can also be seen as a metaphor for dependence and submission.

yet its roots remained where it stood
Despite the political subjugation, the roots remaining in place suggest that Judah retained its cultural and religious identity. The roots symbolize stability and continuity, indicating that the people of Judah were still connected to their land and heritage, even in a time of political upheaval.

So it became a vine and yielded branches and sent out shoots
This part of the verse highlights the potential for growth and expansion, despite the limitations imposed by Babylonian rule. The vine's ability to yield branches and send out shoots suggests resilience and the possibility of future prosperity. This imagery can be connected to the hope of restoration and the eventual coming of the Messiah, who is often depicted as a branch or shoot (Isaiah 11:1, Jeremiah 23:5). The vine's growth, despite its low stature, points to God's ongoing plan for His people, even in times of adversity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the author of the book and the one who delivers God's messages to the Israelites.

2. Babylon
The empire that conquered Judah and took many of its people, including Ezekiel, into exile.

3. Israel
The nation to whom the prophecy is directed, represented metaphorically as a vine in this passage.

4. The Eagle
In the broader context of Ezekiel 17, the eagle represents Babylon, which has influence over Israel.

5. The Vine
Symbolizes the kingdom of Judah, which is under Babylonian control and influence.

Teaching Points

Dependence on God
Just as the vine's roots remained under it, we must remain rooted in God to grow and thrive spiritually.

Influence and Direction
The branches turned toward the eagle, symbolizing external influence. We must be cautious of worldly influences that can divert us from God's path.

Humility and Growth
The vine was low in height, reminding us that true growth in God's kingdom often comes through humility and submission to His will.

Fruitfulness
The vine produced branches and shoots, illustrating the natural outcome of a life rooted in God—spiritual fruitfulness.

Covenant Faithfulness
The imagery calls Israel to remember their covenant with God and the consequences of turning away from Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the vine in Ezekiel 17:6 relate to Jesus' teaching in John 15 about being the true vine?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our "roots" remain under us, firmly planted in God's Word and presence?

3. What are some modern "eagles" or influences that might cause us to turn our branches away from God, and how can we guard against them?

4. How does the concept of humility play a role in our spiritual growth, as seen in the vine's low height?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced spiritual fruitfulness. What factors contributed to this season, and how can you cultivate similar conditions in your life now?

Connections to Other Scriptures

John 15:1-5
Jesus describes Himself as the true vine, emphasizing the importance of remaining connected to Him for spiritual growth and fruitfulness.

Psalm 80:8-11
Israel is depicted as a vine brought out of Egypt, planted by God, and spreading across the land, similar to the imagery in Ezekiel.

Isaiah 5:1-7
The vineyard of the Lord is described, highlighting Israel's failure to produce good fruit despite God's care.