Ezekiel 35:9

I will make you a perpetual desolation, and your cities will not be inhabited. Then you will know that I am the LORD.

Study Bible

I will make you
This phrase indicates the direct action of God. The Hebrew root here is "עָשָׂה" (asah), meaning to do or make. It emphasizes God's sovereignty and active role in the unfolding of history. In the context of Ezekiel, God is addressing Edom, a nation that has been hostile to Israel. This phrase underscores the divine authority and the certainty of God's judgment.

a perpetual desolation
The term "perpetual" comes from the Hebrew "עוֹלָם" (olam), which can mean forever or an indefinite, unending time. "Desolation" is from "שְׁמָמָה" (shemamah), indicating a state of utter ruin and barrenness. Historically, Edom was a mountainous region south of the Dead Sea, often in conflict with Israel. This prophecy of perpetual desolation signifies a complete and enduring judgment, reflecting the seriousness of Edom's sins against God's people.

and your cities
The word "cities" refers to the urban centers of Edom, which were places of strength and pride. In ancient times, cities were not only population centers but also symbols of a nation's power and culture. The mention of cities highlights the comprehensive nature of the coming judgment, affecting both the people and their societal structures.

will not be inhabited
This phrase indicates a total depopulation, a common theme in prophetic literature to describe divine judgment. The Hebrew root "יָשַׁב" (yashab) means to sit, dwell, or inhabit. The absence of inhabitants signifies a complete removal of life and activity, turning once-thriving areas into ghost towns. This serves as a stark warning of the consequences of opposing God's will.

Then you will know
The phrase "you will know" is derived from the Hebrew "יָדַע" (yada), meaning to know, recognize, or understand. In the prophetic context, it often implies a deep, experiential knowledge that comes through witnessing God's actions. This knowledge is not just intellectual but transformative, intended to lead to repentance and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty.

that I am the LORD
The declaration "I am the LORD" is a powerful affirmation of God's identity and authority. The name "LORD" is the translation of "יהוה" (YHWH), the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal presence and faithfulness. This statement serves as the ultimate purpose of the judgment: to reveal God's glory and establish His rightful place as the sovereign ruler over all nations. It is a call to recognize His power and submit to His divine will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Edom
A nation descended from Esau, Jacob's brother, often in conflict with Israel. In Ezekiel 35, Edom is the subject of God's judgment due to its perpetual enmity against Israel.

2. Mount Seir
A mountainous region associated with Edom. It symbolizes the pride and hostility of Edom against God's people.

3. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who delivered messages of judgment and restoration to Israel and surrounding nations during the Babylonian exile.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who declares His sovereignty and justice through His judgments.

5. Judgment
The divine retribution pronounced by God against Edom for its actions against Israel, serving as a demonstration of God's justice and sovereignty.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Justice
God's judgment on Edom demonstrates His sovereign control over nations and His commitment to justice. Believers can trust that God will ultimately right all wrongs.

The Consequences of Enmity Against God's People
Edom's perpetual hostility towards Israel led to its desolation. This serves as a warning against harboring enmity and acting unjustly towards others, especially God's people.

Recognition of the LORD
The phrase "Then you will know that I am the LORD" underscores the purpose of God's judgments: to reveal His identity and authority. Believers are called to recognize and submit to God's lordship in their lives.

The Importance of Humility
Edom's pride contributed to its downfall. Christians are reminded to cultivate humility and avoid pride, which leads to destruction.

God's Faithfulness to His Promises
God's actions against Edom fulfill His promises to protect and vindicate His people. This reassures believers of God's faithfulness to His covenant promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the judgment against Edom in Ezekiel 35:9 reflect God's character and His relationship with Israel?

2. In what ways can the account of Edom serve as a warning against pride and hostility in our own lives?

3. How does the theme of divine justice in Ezekiel 35:9 connect with other biblical passages that discuss God's judgment on nations?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure we are recognizing and submitting to God's lordship in our daily lives?

5. How can we find comfort in God's faithfulness to His promises, as demonstrated in His dealings with Edom and Israel?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Obadiah 1
This book also pronounces judgment against Edom for its violence against Israel, emphasizing the theme of divine retribution.

Psalm 137:7
Reflects the cry of the Israelites against Edom, who rejoiced over Jerusalem's downfall, highlighting Edom's hostility.

Isaiah 34
Describes the desolation of Edom as part of God's judgment, reinforcing the theme of divine justice.

Malachi 1:2-4
Discusses God's love for Jacob (Israel) and His judgment against Esau (Edom), illustrating the contrast between God's chosen people and those who oppose them.