Ezekiel 35:6

therefore as surely as I live, declares the Lord GOD, I will give you over to bloodshed and it will pursue you. Since you did not hate bloodshed, it will pursue you.

Study Bible

therefore as surely as I live, declares the Lord GOD,
This phrase emphasizes the certainty and authority of God's pronouncement. The phrase "as surely as I live" is an oath formula, underscoring the seriousness and unchangeable nature of God's words. It reflects God's eternal existence and His sovereign power to execute judgment. This is a common expression in prophetic literature, highlighting the divine authority behind the message (e.g., Numbers 14:21, Isaiah 49:18).

I will give you over to bloodshed and it will pursue you.
This is a declaration of judgment against Edom, a nation historically hostile to Israel. The term "bloodshed" signifies violence and death, indicating that Edom will face the consequences of its own violent actions. The imagery of bloodshed pursuing them suggests an inescapable retribution. This reflects the biblical principle of reaping what one sows (Galatians 6:7). Historically, Edom's enmity with Israel is well-documented, and this prophecy aligns with the broader biblical narrative of divine justice against nations that oppose God's people (Obadiah 1:10).

Since you did not hate bloodshed,
Edom's failure to abhor violence is highlighted here. Their complacency or even delight in violence, particularly against Israel, is condemned. This reflects a moral indictment, as they are judged not only for their actions but also for their attitudes. The biblical ethic calls for a love of justice and mercy (Micah 6:8), and Edom's disregard for these values leads to their downfall.

it will pursue you.
The repetition of the phrase emphasizes the inevitability and persistence of the coming judgment. The pursuit of bloodshed suggests that Edom cannot escape the consequences of its actions. This mirrors the biblical theme of divine retribution, where the punishment fits the crime (Psalm 7:15-16). The relentless nature of this pursuit underscores the seriousness of their sin and the certainty of God's justice.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who ministered to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. He conveyed God's messages of judgment and restoration.

2. Mount Seir
A mountainous region associated with Edom, the descendants of Esau. It symbolizes the perpetual enmity between Edom and Israel.

3. The Lord GOD
The sovereign and just God who declares judgment against Edom for their perpetual hostility and violence against Israel.

4. Edomites
The descendants of Esau, who harbored animosity towards the Israelites, their kin through Jacob.

5. Bloodshed
Represents violence and hostility, which Edom is accused of perpetuating against Israel.

Teaching Points

God's Justice is Inevitable
The passage underscores that God's justice will prevail against those who perpetuate violence and hostility. Believers are reminded that God sees all and will act in His time.

The Consequences of Hatred
Edom's failure to reject bloodshed led to their own destruction. Christians are called to love and peace, avoiding the destructive path of hatred.

The Importance of Reconciliation
The historical enmity between Edom and Israel serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unresolved conflict. Believers are encouraged to seek reconciliation and peace.

God's Sovereignty
The declaration "as surely as I live" emphasizes God's unchanging nature and His ultimate control over nations and history.

Reflecting on Our Actions
Just as Edom faced consequences for their actions, believers are urged to reflect on their own lives, ensuring they align with God's will and avoid paths that lead to spiritual destruction.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the historical conflict between Jacob and Esau help us understand the judgment pronounced in Ezekiel 35:6?

2. In what ways can unresolved conflict and bitterness affect our spiritual lives, as seen in the relationship between Edom and Israel?

3. How does the concept of God's inevitable justice provide comfort or challenge in your current circumstances?

4. What steps can you take to ensure that you are pursuing peace rather than harboring enmity in your relationships?

5. How can the themes of justice and reconciliation in Ezekiel 35:6 be applied to modern-day conflicts, both personal and global?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 27
The origin of the enmity between Jacob (Israel) and Esau (Edom) is rooted in their familial conflict, which sets the stage for the ongoing hostility.

Obadiah 1
This book also prophesies against Edom, highlighting their pride and violence against Israel, similar to the themes in Ezekiel 35.

Psalm 137
Reflects the Israelites' lament and desire for justice against Edom, who rejoiced over Jerusalem's downfall.

Hebrews 12
Warns against bitterness and enmity, using Esau as an example of what to avoid in Christian conduct.