Ezekiel 24:1

In the ninth year, on the tenth day of the tenth month, the word of the LORD came to me, saying,

Study Bible

In the ninth year
This phrase marks a specific point in time, which is crucial for understanding the historical context of Ezekiel's prophecies. The "ninth year" refers to the ninth year of King Jehoiachin's exile, which places this event around 588 BC. This was a tumultuous period for the Israelites, as they were under Babylonian captivity. The precision of this dating underscores the reliability and historical accuracy of the biblical narrative, reminding us that God's interventions in history are both timely and purposeful.

in the tenth month on the tenth day
The specificity of the date highlights the importance of the message that follows. In the Hebrew calendar, the tenth month is Tevet. This exact dating is significant because it coincides with the beginning of the siege of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar, as recorded in 2 Kings 25:1. The precision of this date serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over time and history, and His intimate involvement in the affairs of nations and individuals.

the word of the LORD
This phrase is a powerful declaration of divine revelation. In Hebrew, "word" is "dabar," which implies not just spoken words but an active, dynamic force. The "word of the LORD" is not merely information; it is a living, creative power that accomplishes God's purposes. This reminds us of the authority and effectiveness of God's word, as seen in creation and throughout biblical history.

came to me
The personal nature of this phrase emphasizes the role of Ezekiel as a prophet and intermediary between God and His people. The Hebrew verb "came" (hayah) suggests an encounter or happening, indicating that Ezekiel is not merely a passive recipient but an active participant in receiving and delivering God's message. This underscores the relational aspect of prophecy, where God chooses individuals to convey His will to His people.

saying
This word introduces the content of God's message. In Hebrew, "saying" (amar) is often used to introduce direct speech, indicating that what follows is a direct communication from God. This highlights the clarity and directness with which God communicates His will, ensuring that His message is understood and heeded. It serves as a reminder of the importance of listening to and obeying God's voice in our lives.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the recipient of God's message. His role is to convey God's words to the Israelites, often through symbolic actions and visions.

2. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, Yahweh, who communicates directly with Ezekiel. This emphasizes the divine authority and origin of the message.

3. The Ninth Year
This refers to the ninth year of King Jehoiachin's exile, marking a specific historical context for the prophecy.

4. The Tenth Day of the Tenth Month
A precise date that corresponds to the beginning of the siege of Jerusalem by Babylon, highlighting the fulfillment of God's warnings through Ezekiel.

5. Babylonian Siege of Jerusalem
An event that fulfills previous prophecies and serves as a pivotal moment in Israel's history, demonstrating God's judgment and sovereignty.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in History
The precise dating of events in Ezekiel 24:1 underscores God's control over historical events. Believers can trust that God is sovereign over the affairs of nations and individuals.

The Certainty of God's Word
The fulfillment of prophecy in Ezekiel 24:1 demonstrates the reliability of God's word. Christians are encouraged to have confidence in the promises and warnings found in Scripture.

The Importance of Obedience
Ezekiel's role as a faithful messenger highlights the importance of obedience to God's calling. Believers are called to faithfully deliver God's truth, regardless of the circumstances.

The Consequences of Sin
The siege of Jerusalem is a direct result of Israel's persistent disobedience. This serves as a warning to take sin seriously and to seek repentance and restoration with God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the specific dating of events in Ezekiel 24:1 enhance our understanding of God's involvement in history?

2. In what ways does the fulfillment of prophecy in Ezekiel 24:1 encourage us to trust in the promises of God found in other parts of Scripture?

3. How can Ezekiel's example of obedience inspire us in our own walk with God, especially when delivering difficult messages?

4. What lessons can we learn from the consequences faced by Jerusalem that can be applied to our personal lives and communities today?

5. How do the events of Ezekiel 24:1 connect with the broader account of God's redemptive plan as seen throughout the Bible?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 25:1
This passage provides a historical account of the siege of Jerusalem, confirming the date and event mentioned in Ezekiel 24:1.

Jeremiah 39:1
Jeremiah also records the siege, offering a parallel prophetic perspective and reinforcing the consistency of God's message through different prophets.

Ezekiel 12:1-16
Earlier in Ezekiel, God uses symbolic actions to warn of the coming judgment, which is now being realized in Ezekiel 24:1.