Now you, son of man
The phrase "son of man" is a title used frequently in the book of Ezekiel, emphasizing the prophet's humanity and his role as a representative of the people. In Hebrew, "ben adam" underscores the connection between Ezekiel and the rest of humanity, highlighting his role as a mediator between God and Israel. This title also foreshadows the use of "Son of Man" in the New Testament, where it is applied to Jesus Christ, emphasizing His incarnation and identification with humanity.

take a brick
The instruction to "take a brick" is significant in its historical and cultural context. In ancient Mesopotamia, bricks were commonly used for construction and were often inscribed with important information. By using a brick, Ezekiel is engaging in a symbolic act that would have been easily understood by his contemporaries. The brick serves as a tangible representation of Jerusalem, allowing Ezekiel to convey God's message in a visual and impactful manner.

place it before you
The act of placing the brick before him signifies preparation and intention. Ezekiel is to set the stage for a prophetic demonstration, drawing attention to the seriousness and deliberateness of the message he is about to convey. This action invites the audience to focus on what is to come, emphasizing the importance of the prophetic sign.

and draw on it the city of Jerusalem
The command to "draw on it the city of Jerusalem" involves creating a depiction of the city on the brick. This act of drawing is not merely artistic but deeply symbolic, representing the impending siege and judgment upon Jerusalem. In the ancient Near East, such symbolic acts were a common method of prophecy, serving as visual parables to communicate divine messages. The city of Jerusalem, central to Jewish identity and faith, is depicted here to illustrate the gravity of the coming judgment due to the people's unfaithfulness. This prophetic act serves as a call to repentance and a reminder of God's sovereignty over the fate of nations.

Then lay siege against it
The phrase "lay siege" in the Hebrew context refers to the ancient military practice of surrounding a city to cut off supplies and force surrender. In Ezekiel's time, sieges were common tactics used by empires like Babylon. The Hebrew word for "siege" is "matsor," which conveys the idea of confinement and pressure. This action symbolizes God's judgment on Jerusalem, indicating that the city will be encircled and pressured by its enemies due to its disobedience. The prophetic act serves as a visual warning to the Israelites of the impending Babylonian siege.

Build a siege wall
The "siege wall" or "dayeq" in Hebrew, refers to the construction of a barrier or rampart used in warfare to breach city defenses. Historically, siege walls were crucial in ancient warfare, allowing attackers to approach and eventually penetrate fortified cities. This imagery underscores the inevitability of Jerusalem's fall, as God allows the Babylonians to build up their strength against the city. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commandments.

Raise a ramp
The term "ramp" or "solelah" in Hebrew, describes an inclined plane constructed to allow armies to scale city walls. This was a common military strategy in ancient times, demonstrating the thoroughness and determination of the besieging force. Spiritually, this act signifies the relentless advance of divine judgment against sin. It is a call for repentance, urging the people to recognize the seriousness of their situation and turn back to God.

Set up camps
"Camps" or "machanot" in Hebrew, refers to the temporary dwellings of soldiers during a siege. This indicates a prolonged military presence, suggesting that the siege will not be a quick or easy affair. Historically, the Babylonian army would have established these camps around Jerusalem, signifying their commitment to capturing the city. This phrase highlights the persistence of God's judgment, as well as His patience, giving the people time to repent even as the siege progresses.

Place battering rams around it
"Battering rams" or "karim" in Hebrew, were powerful siege engines used to break through city gates and walls. The use of such equipment signifies the intensity and finality of the attack on Jerusalem. In a spiritual sense, this imagery represents the breaking down of the barriers that the Israelites had erected between themselves and God through their idolatry and sin. It is a powerful reminder of the destructive power of sin and the need for divine intervention to restore and rebuild what has been broken.

Then take an iron plate
The Hebrew word for "iron" is "barzel," which signifies strength and impenetrability. In ancient times, iron was a symbol of power and durability. The use of an iron plate here suggests a formidable barrier, representing the unyielding nature of God's judgment against Jerusalem. The iron plate serves as a tangible representation of the separation between God and His people due to their persistent disobedience.

and set it up as an iron wall
The phrase "iron wall" evokes imagery of an impenetrable fortress. In the context of Ezekiel's prophetic actions, this iron wall symbolizes the divine barrier that has been erected because of Israel's sin. Historically, walls were crucial for the defense of cities, and an "iron wall" would be an insurmountable obstacle, emphasizing the severity of the impending judgment and the futility of resistance without repentance.

between you and the city
This phrase highlights the separation between the prophet, representing God's presence and message, and the city of Jerusalem, which is under judgment. The physical act of placing the iron plate between Ezekiel and the city underscores the spiritual and relational divide caused by Israel's unfaithfulness. It serves as a visual and prophetic demonstration of the consequences of turning away from God.

Turn your face toward it
In Hebrew culture, turning one's face toward something signifies attention, focus, and intent. Ezekiel's action of turning his face toward the iron wall and the city symbolizes God's unwavering gaze upon Jerusalem, observing their actions and the fulfillment of His prophetic word. It also indicates the seriousness of the message being delivered, as God's attention is fully directed toward the judgment at hand.

it will be under siege
The term "siege" refers to a military blockade of a city with the intent to conquer it. Historically, sieges were devastating, leading to famine, disease, and destruction. This phrase prophetically announces the impending Babylonian siege of Jerusalem, a direct consequence of the nation's rebellion against God. It serves as a warning of the physical and spiritual desolation that results from sin.

and you shall besiege it
Ezekiel's role in besieging the city symbolically represents God's active involvement in the judgment process. The prophet's actions are a divine enactment of the coming reality, illustrating that the siege is not merely a political or military event but a fulfillment of God's righteous decree. It emphasizes the certainty of the prophecy and the inevitability of its fulfillment.

This will be a sign to the house of Israel
The word "sign" in Hebrew is "oth," which denotes a symbol or a miraculous indication. Ezekiel's actions are not just symbolic but serve as a divine sign to the people of Israel, calling them to recognize the seriousness of their situation and the need for repentance. It is a call to awareness, urging the nation to heed the warning and turn back to God before it is too late. This sign is a testament to God's mercy, providing a clear and visible warning in hopes of bringing His people back to Him.

Then lie on your left side
In this phrase, the prophet Ezekiel is instructed by God to perform a symbolic act. The Hebrew word for "lie" is "שָׁכַב" (shakab), which often implies a posture of rest or submission. This act of lying on his side is not merely physical but deeply symbolic, representing the burden of sin and judgment. The left side, in particular, may symbolize the northern kingdom of Israel, as the left is often associated with the north in ancient Near Eastern symbolism. This act is a vivid, prophetic demonstration meant to capture the attention of the Israelites and convey a message of impending judgment due to their unfaithfulness.

and put the iniquity of the house of Israel upon it
The term "iniquity" comes from the Hebrew "עָוֹן" (avon), which denotes guilt or sin, particularly in a moral or ethical sense. By placing the iniquity of Israel upon himself, Ezekiel is enacting a form of intercession, bearing the weight of the nation's sins. This act is reminiscent of the scapegoat ritual described in Leviticus 16, where the sins of the people are symbolically placed upon a goat. Here, Ezekiel becomes a living symbol of the consequences of Israel's rebellion against God, highlighting the seriousness of their spiritual condition.

You are to bear their iniquity for the number of days you lie on your side
The word "bear" is translated from the Hebrew "נָשָׂא" (nasa), which means to carry or lift up. This indicates that Ezekiel is not just passively lying down but actively taking on the burden of Israel's sins. The duration of this symbolic act is significant, as each day represents a year of iniquity. This prophetic action underscores the long-suffering nature of God's judgment and the extended period of Israel's disobedience. It serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's covenant and the need for repentance and restoration.

For I have assigned to you
The phrase indicates divine appointment and authority. In Hebrew, the word for "assigned" is "נתתי" (natati), which means "I have given" or "I have appointed." This reflects God's sovereign control and His direct involvement in the prophetic actions of Ezekiel. It underscores the idea that God is actively orchestrating events and messages through His prophets, emphasizing His omnipotence and intentionality in communicating with His people.

the same number of days as the years of their iniquity
This phrase highlights the concept of symbolic representation in prophetic acts. The Hebrew word for "iniquity" is "עון" (avon), which refers to sin, guilt, or punishment. The use of days to represent years is a common biblical motif, seen also in Numbers 14:34. This symbolic act serves as a vivid reminder of the prolonged period of Israel's disobedience and the corresponding duration of their punishment. It reflects the justice of God, who measures out consequences in accordance with the severity and duration of sin.

390 days
The specific number of days is significant and has been the subject of much scholarly debate. Historically, this period may correspond to the years of Israel's persistent idolatry and rebellion, possibly from the division of the kingdom after Solomon's reign to the fall of Jerusalem. The precision of this number underscores the meticulous nature of God's judgment and His intimate knowledge of Israel's history. It serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commandments.

so you will bear the iniquity
The act of bearing iniquity is a profound prophetic gesture. In Hebrew, "תשא" (tisa) means "you will bear" or "carry." This act symbolizes the prophet's role as an intercessor and a representative of the people before God. It foreshadows the ultimate bearing of iniquity by Christ, who took upon Himself the sins of humanity. Ezekiel's action is a precursor to the redemptive work of Jesus, highlighting the theme of substitutionary atonement that runs throughout Scripture.

of the house of Israel
The "house of Israel" refers to the northern kingdom, distinct from Judah. This designation emphasizes the collective identity and responsibility of the people as a covenant community. Despite their division and rebellion, they remain God's chosen people, and His dealings with them are rooted in His covenant promises. This phrase serves as a reminder of God's enduring commitment to His people, even in the face of their unfaithfulness, and His desire for their repentance and restoration.

When you have completed these days
This phrase marks a transition in Ezekiel's symbolic actions. The completion of the days refers to the 390 days he spent lying on his left side, symbolizing the years of Israel's sin. The Hebrew root for "completed" (כָּלָה, kalah) implies fulfillment or bringing to an end. This completion signifies a divine order and the meticulous nature of God's plans, emphasizing His sovereignty and the precision of His judgments.

lie down again
Ezekiel is instructed to continue his symbolic act by lying down again, this time on his right side. The act of lying down is a prophetic gesture, a physical manifestation of bearing the burden of sin. The Hebrew verb "lie down" (שָׁכַב, shakab) often connotes rest or submission, indicating Ezekiel's obedience to God's command and the weight of the prophetic message he carries.

but on your right side
The right side is significant in biblical symbolism, often associated with strength, favor, and authority. By lying on his right side, Ezekiel represents the house of Judah, which, despite its favored status, is not exempt from judgment. This act underscores the impartiality of God's justice and the accountability of all His people.

and bear the iniquity of the house of Judah
To "bear the iniquity" (נָשָׂא עָוֹן, nasa avon) is to carry the burden of sin, a concept deeply rooted in the sacrificial system where sins were symbolically transferred to a scapegoat. Ezekiel's action prefigures the ultimate bearing of iniquity by Christ, who took upon Himself the sins of humanity. The "house of Judah" refers specifically to the southern kingdom, highlighting that both Israel and Judah are subject to divine scrutiny.

I have assigned to you forty days
The number forty is significant in Scripture, often associated with periods of testing, trial, and judgment, such as the forty years in the wilderness or Jesus' forty days of fasting. The assignment of forty days to Ezekiel is a symbolic representation of the forty years of Judah's iniquity, emphasizing the completeness and thoroughness of God's judgment.

a day for each year
This phrase establishes the prophetic principle of a day representing a year, a concept seen elsewhere in Scripture (e.g., Numbers 14:34). It underscores the precision of God's prophetic timeline and His meticulous attention to the moral and spiritual history of His people. This principle serves as a reminder of the long-suffering nature of God, who provides ample time for repentance and reconciliation.

You are to turn your face
The phrase "turn your face" in Hebrew is "פָּנֶיךָ תָּשִׂים" (panecha tasim). This expression signifies a deliberate and focused attention. In the context of Ezekiel's prophetic ministry, it underscores the seriousness and intentionality of his actions. The act of turning one's face is symbolic of commitment and determination. Historically, prophets were often called to set their faces against cities or nations as a sign of impending judgment. This phrase reminds us of the resolute nature of God's messages through His prophets, emphasizing the importance of obedience and the gravity of divine warnings.

toward the siege of Jerusalem
The Hebrew word for "siege" is "מָצוֹר" (matsor), which refers to a military blockade or encirclement. The siege of Jerusalem was a significant event in biblical history, marking the culmination of Judah's disobedience and the fulfillment of prophetic warnings. This phrase highlights the impending judgment upon Jerusalem due to its persistent rebellion against God. Archaeological findings, such as the Babylonian chronicles, corroborate the historical reality of the siege, providing a backdrop for understanding the severity of the situation. Theologically, this serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's covenant.

with your arm bared
The phrase "with your arm bared" translates from the Hebrew "וּזְרוֹעֲךָ חֲשׂוּפָה" (uzeroacha chasufah). In ancient Near Eastern culture, baring the arm was a gesture of readiness for action or battle. It symbolizes strength, power, and the readiness to execute judgment. For Ezekiel, this act was a visual representation of God's might and determination to carry out His will. Scripturally, the "arm of the Lord" is often associated with divine intervention and deliverance, as seen in passages like Isaiah 53:1. Here, it serves as a powerful image of God's active role in the unfolding events.

and prophesy against it
The Hebrew word for "prophesy" is "וְהִנָּבֵיתָ" (vehinaveita), which means to speak forth or declare a message from God. Prophecy in the biblical sense is not merely foretelling the future but is a declaration of God's truth and intentions. Ezekiel's role as a prophet was to communicate God's impending judgment on Jerusalem, calling the people to repentance. The phrase "against it" indicates the adversarial nature of the message, highlighting the seriousness of the situation. This serves as a reminder of the prophet's duty to speak truth, even when it is difficult, and the necessity of heeding God's warnings to avoid judgment.

I will tie you up with ropes
This phrase signifies God's direct intervention in the life of Ezekiel, symbolizing the binding nature of divine commands. The Hebrew root for "tie" (אָסַר, 'asar) often implies binding or imprisoning, suggesting that Ezekiel's actions are not of his own volition but are compelled by God's will. This act of binding can be seen as a metaphor for the constraints placed upon the prophet, emphasizing the seriousness and inevitability of the message he is to deliver. Historically, prophets often faced physical and spiritual constraints as they carried out God's directives, highlighting the weight of their divine mission.

so that you cannot turn
This phrase underscores the totality of Ezekiel's commitment to his prophetic role. The inability to "turn" (שׁוּב, shuv) indicates a lack of freedom to deviate from God's instructions. In the broader scriptural context, turning often implies repentance or change of direction, but here it signifies the steadfastness required of Ezekiel. The prophet's immobility serves as a powerful symbol of the unchanging nature of God's judgment upon Israel. It reflects the historical reality of the Babylonian exile, where the people of Israel were unable to escape the consequences of their actions.

from one side to the other
This phrase illustrates the specific and deliberate nature of Ezekiel's prophetic actions. The act of lying on one side and then the other is a symbolic representation of the divided kingdom of Israel and Judah. The historical context of the divided monarchy is crucial here, as it reflects the fractured state of God's people. Ezekiel's actions serve as a visual prophecy, a living parable of the impending judgment and the hope of eventual restoration. The phrase also emphasizes the completeness of God's message, covering all aspects of the nation's sin and the comprehensive nature of divine justice.

until you have completed the days of your siege
This final phrase speaks to the endurance and perseverance required of Ezekiel. The "days of your siege" refer to the symbolic representation of the Babylonian siege of Jerusalem. The Hebrew word for "completed" (כָּלָה, kalah) implies bringing something to its full end or conclusion. This completion signifies the fulfillment of God's prophetic word, reinforcing the certainty of His plans. The historical siege of Jerusalem was a pivotal event in Israel's history, marking a period of intense suffering and reflection. Ezekiel's role in enacting this prophecy serves as a reminder of the faithfulness required in the face of adversity and the ultimate sovereignty of God over the affairs of nations.

But you, take
This phrase marks a direct command from God to Ezekiel, emphasizing personal responsibility and obedience. The Hebrew word for "take" is "laqach," which implies receiving or acquiring with intention. This command signifies God's direct involvement in Ezekiel's prophetic actions, highlighting the importance of obedience in the life of a believer.

wheat, barley, beans, lentils, millet, and spelt
These ingredients represent a variety of grains and legumes, each with its own significance. Wheat and barley were staple grains in ancient Israel, symbolizing sustenance and provision. Beans and lentils were common in the diet of the poor, indicating humility and simplicity. Millet and spelt, less common, suggest scarcity and the need for resourcefulness. Together, these ingredients symbolize the diverse and sometimes difficult provisions God provides during times of trial.

put them in a single vessel
The act of combining these ingredients into one vessel signifies unity and completeness. In a spiritual sense, it reflects the unity of God's people, who, despite their diverse backgrounds and experiences, are brought together in Christ. The vessel can also symbolize the church, where believers are united in purpose and mission.

make them into bread for yourself
Bread, a fundamental element of sustenance, is often used in Scripture to symbolize life and spiritual nourishment. The act of making bread from these ingredients signifies the transformation of God's provision into something that sustains and nourishes. It is a reminder that God provides not only for our physical needs but also for our spiritual well-being.

You are to eat it during the number of days you lie on your side
This phrase indicates a period of trial and endurance. Ezekiel's act of lying on his side symbolizes the bearing of iniquity and the endurance required in times of judgment. Eating the bread during this time signifies reliance on God's provision and strength during periods of hardship and testing.

three hundred and ninety days
The specific number of days represents the years of Israel's iniquity, as detailed earlier in the chapter. This period is a prophetic symbol of the duration of Israel's punishment and exile. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience but also of God's faithfulness in bringing His people through times of judgment to eventual restoration.

You are to eat
This phrase indicates a direct command from God to Ezekiel, emphasizing obedience and submission to divine will. In the Hebrew context, eating often symbolizes internalizing a message or experience. Here, it signifies Ezekiel's role in embodying the prophetic message through his actions.

the food
The term "food" in this context is not just physical sustenance but a symbol of the spiritual and prophetic sustenance that Ezekiel is to partake in. It represents the message of judgment and hardship that he is to deliver to the people of Israel.

as you would a barley cake
Barley was a common grain in ancient Israel, often associated with the food of the poor. This phrase highlights the humility and simplicity of the message Ezekiel is to convey. It underscores the theme of scarcity and the dire circumstances that the Israelites will face due to their disobedience.

weighing twenty shekels
The specific weight of twenty shekels indicates a measured and limited portion, symbolizing the scarcity and rationing that will occur during the siege of Jerusalem. It reflects the precision of God's judgment and the careful measurement of consequences for sin.

to eat each day
This daily rationing signifies the ongoing nature of the judgment and the endurance required by the people. It also points to the daily dependence on God for sustenance, both physically and spiritually, during times of trial.

And you are to drink water by measure
This phrase indicates a precise and limited consumption of water, symbolizing scarcity and rationing. In the Hebrew context, the word for "measure" (מִדָּה, middah) implies a calculated and deliberate portioning, reflecting the dire circumstances of a besieged city. Historically, during sieges, resources were scarce, and rationing was a necessity for survival. This act serves as a prophetic sign to the Israelites of the impending judgment and the severe conditions they would face due to their disobedience.

a sixth of a hin
The "hin" is an ancient Hebrew unit of liquid measure, roughly equivalent to about 3.5 liters or 0.92 gallons. Therefore, a sixth of a hin would be a small amount, approximately 0.58 liters or 0.15 gallons. This limited quantity underscores the severity of the situation Ezekiel is illustrating. The use of specific measurements in prophetic acts often serves to emphasize the precision of God's judgment and the reality of the consequences of sin.

you are to drink it at set times
The phrase "at set times" (עֵת, eth) suggests a disciplined and regulated schedule, further emphasizing the theme of restriction and control. In the context of a siege, maintaining a strict regimen would be crucial for survival, as resources would need to be carefully managed. This also reflects the broader biblical principle of order and discipline in the life of a believer, reminding the Israelites of the importance of obedience and the consequences of straying from God's commands.

And you are to eat it
This phrase is a direct command from God to Ezekiel, emphasizing the prophet's role in embodying the message he is to deliver. The act of eating symbolizes internalizing and fully accepting the message from God. In Hebrew, the word for "eat" (אָכַל, 'akal) often implies not just physical consumption but also spiritual and intellectual acceptance. Ezekiel's obedience in this act demonstrates his commitment to God's will, serving as a powerful example of faithfulness.

as you would a barley cake
Barley was a common grain in ancient Israel, often associated with the food of the poor. The use of barley here signifies the dire circumstances and scarcity that the Israelites would face during the siege of Jerusalem. Barley cakes were simple, everyday sustenance, highlighting the humbling and distressing conditions that would come upon the people. This imagery serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of turning away from God.

having baked it over human excrement
This shocking command is meant to symbolize the extreme defilement and unclean conditions that would result from the siege. In the Hebrew context, using human excrement as fuel was considered a severe impurity, as outlined in the Mosaic Law. This act was intended to convey the depth of Israel's spiritual corruption and the resulting judgment. It underscores the seriousness of sin and the lengths to which God will go to communicate the need for repentance.

in their sight
The public nature of this act is crucial. Ezekiel's actions were meant to be a visible sign to the people of Israel, serving as a prophetic demonstration of the message God was delivering. The phrase "in their sight" indicates that this was not a private act but a public declaration meant to provoke thought, reflection, and ultimately, repentance among the Israelites. It highlights the role of the prophet as a visible witness to God's truth, calling the people to awareness and change.

And the LORD said
This phrase establishes the divine authority behind the message. The Hebrew root for "LORD" is "YHWH," the sacred name of God, emphasizing His sovereignty and covenant relationship with Israel. The phrase underscores that the message is not from Ezekiel himself but from God, highlighting the seriousness and divine origin of the prophecy.

In this way
This refers to the symbolic actions that Ezekiel is instructed to perform, which are meant to represent the coming judgment. The Hebrew context suggests a demonstration or illustration, indicating that the actions are a visual prophecy. It emphasizes the method God uses to communicate His message, often through symbolic acts that capture attention and provoke reflection.

the Israelites
This term refers to the descendants of Jacob, also known as Israel. Historically, the Israelites are God's chosen people, bound by covenant to follow His laws. The mention of "Israelites" serves as a reminder of their identity and the expectations placed upon them by God. It also highlights the collective nature of the judgment, affecting the entire nation.

will eat
Eating is a basic human necessity, and in this context, it symbolizes survival under dire circumstances. The Hebrew verb here implies an ongoing action, suggesting that this will be a continuous state for the Israelites. It reflects the degradation of their condition, as eating, a daily act, becomes a reminder of their defilement and exile.

their defiled bread
"Defiled" in Hebrew is "ṭāmē," meaning unclean or impure. Bread, a staple of life, becomes a symbol of impurity and judgment. This phrase indicates that the Israelites will be forced to consume what is ritually unclean, violating their dietary laws. It signifies a loss of religious purity and a consequence of their disobedience to God.

among the nations
This phrase indicates the scattering of the Israelites among foreign peoples. Historically, this refers to the exile, where Israelites were taken captive by conquering nations. The Hebrew word for "nations" is "goyim," often used to describe non-Israelite peoples. It highlights the loss of national identity and the humiliation of living under foreign rule.

where I will banish them
"Banish" in Hebrew is "hālag," meaning to send away or exile. This phrase underscores God's active role in the judgment, as He is the one orchestrating their exile. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of breaking the covenant with God. The exile is both a punishment and a means of purification, intended to bring the Israelites back to repentance and faithfulness.

Not so, Lord GOD!
This phrase reflects Ezekiel's immediate and emphatic response to God's command. The Hebrew word for "Lord GOD" here is "Adonai Yahweh," emphasizing God's sovereign authority. Ezekiel's use of "Not so" indicates a deep reverence and a plea for exemption based on his past faithfulness. This highlights the prophet's personal integrity and his commitment to the laws of purity, which were central to Jewish identity and religious practice.

I have never defiled myself
The concept of defilement in Hebrew culture was closely tied to ritual purity, which was essential for maintaining a relationship with God. The Hebrew word for "defiled" is "ṭāmē," which means to be unclean or impure. Ezekiel's assertion underscores his lifelong dedication to living according to the purity laws outlined in the Torah, reflecting a heart committed to holiness and obedience.

From my youth until now
This phrase indicates a lifelong commitment to God's commandments. It suggests that Ezekiel's adherence to the dietary laws was not a recent development but a consistent practice from his earliest days. This lifelong dedication serves as a model of faithfulness and integrity, emphasizing the importance of steadfastness in one's spiritual journey.

I have never eaten anything found dead or torn by wild animals
The dietary laws in Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14 prohibited the consumption of animals that died naturally or were torn by wild beasts. Such animals were considered unclean, and eating them would result in ritual impurity. Ezekiel's adherence to these laws demonstrates his commitment to maintaining ritual purity, which was vital for a prophet who served as a mediator between God and His people.

nor has any unclean meat ever entered my mouth
This statement reinforces Ezekiel's strict observance of dietary laws. The term "unclean" refers to anything that was not permissible according to the Mosaic Law. By stating that no unclean meat had ever entered his mouth, Ezekiel emphasizes his dedication to God's commandments and his desire to remain pure in both body and spirit. This commitment to purity is a testament to his role as a prophet and his deep relationship with God.

Very well, He replied
This phrase indicates God's response to Ezekiel's plea for a concession. The Hebrew word for "replied" is "אָמַר" (amar), which is often used to denote a declaration or a statement of intent. Here, it reflects God's willingness to accommodate Ezekiel's concerns, demonstrating His understanding and compassion. This interaction highlights the relational aspect of God, who listens and responds to the needs of His people, even within the context of judgment and prophetic symbolism.

I will let you use cow dung instead of human excrement
The substitution of cow dung for human excrement is significant. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, using human excrement for fuel was considered unclean and defiling. The Hebrew word for "excrement" is "גֵּלֶל" (gelal), which underscores the impurity associated with it. By allowing the use of cow dung, which was a more common and acceptable fuel source, God is showing mercy and providing a way for Ezekiel to maintain ritual purity. This concession underscores the importance of holiness and the lengths to which God will go to preserve the sanctity of His prophet, even in the midst of a symbolic act meant to convey the severity of Israel's impending judgment.

and you may bake your bread over that
The act of baking bread over dung, even cow dung, serves as a powerful symbol of the dire conditions that would befall Jerusalem during the siege. Bread, a staple of life, represents sustenance and provision. The Hebrew word for "bread" is "לֶחֶם" (lechem), which is often used in Scripture to symbolize God's provision. The use of dung as fuel signifies the scarcity and desperation that would accompany the siege, as traditional fuel sources would be unavailable. This imagery serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the reality of divine judgment. Yet, even in this grim portrayal, there is a glimmer of hope and divine provision, as God allows for a less defiling means to prepare sustenance, pointing to His enduring care for His people even in times of discipline.

Then He said to me
This phrase indicates a direct communication from God to the prophet Ezekiel. The Hebrew root for "said" is "אָמַר" (amar), which is often used in the Old Testament to denote divine speech. This highlights the authority and seriousness of the message being conveyed. In the context of Ezekiel, a prophet during the Babylonian exile, this divine communication underscores the importance of the prophetic role as a mouthpiece for God's will and judgment.

Son of man
This title, "בֶּן־אָדָם" (ben-adam) in Hebrew, is used frequently in Ezekiel, emphasizing the humanity and humility of the prophet in contrast to the divine majesty of God. It serves as a reminder of Ezekiel's role as a representative of the people, sharing in their human frailty and yet called to deliver God's message. This term also foreshadows the New Testament use of "Son of Man" as a title for Jesus, linking the prophetic mission of Ezekiel to the ultimate mission of Christ.

I will cut off the supply of bread in Jerusalem
The phrase "cut off" comes from the Hebrew "שָׁבַר" (shabar), meaning to break or destroy. This indicates a severe judgment, as bread was a staple of life in ancient Israel. The historical context here is the impending siege of Jerusalem by Babylon, which would lead to famine and suffering. Bread symbolizes sustenance and life, and its removal signifies God's judgment and the dire consequences of the people's disobedience.

The people will eat bread by weight and in anxiety
Eating "by weight" suggests rationing, a common practice during sieges when food was scarce. The Hebrew word for "anxiety" is "דְּאָגָה" (de'agah), reflecting the fear and uncertainty that accompany such dire circumstances. This phrase paints a vivid picture of the desperation and fear that would grip Jerusalem during the siege, serving as a warning of the physical and emotional toll of turning away from God.

and drink water by measure and in dread
Similar to the rationing of bread, "by measure" indicates a limited supply of water, a critical resource in the arid climate of the Middle East. The word "dread" translates from the Hebrew "שִׁמָּמוֹן" (shimmamon), conveying a sense of horror and panic. This reflects the extreme conditions the people would face, emphasizing the severity of God's judgment and the need for repentance and reliance on Him for true sustenance and peace.

So they will lack food and water
This phrase highlights the dire consequences of disobedience to God. The Hebrew root for "lack" is "ḥāsēr," which conveys a sense of deficiency or want. In the historical context of Ezekiel, this prophecy was a warning to the Israelites of the impending siege of Jerusalem, where scarcity of resources would be a harsh reality. The lack of food and water symbolizes not only physical deprivation but also spiritual famine, as turning away from God leads to a lack of spiritual nourishment.

they will be appalled at the sight of one another
The word "appalled" comes from the Hebrew "šāmēm," which means to be desolate or astonished. This phrase paints a vivid picture of the horror and disbelief that will grip the people as they witness the effects of their collective sin. The sight of one another in such a destitute state serves as a mirror reflecting the consequences of their iniquity. Historically, this would have been a common reaction during sieges, where the breakdown of social order and the visible suffering of neighbors would be shocking and disheartening.

and waste away in their iniquity
The phrase "waste away" is derived from the Hebrew "māqaq," indicating decay or dissolution. This is a powerful metaphor for the spiritual and physical deterioration that results from persistent sin. "Iniquity" here refers to moral perversity or guilt, emphasizing the just nature of God's judgment. Theologically, this serves as a sobering reminder of the wages of sin, as described in Romans 6:23. The historical context of Ezekiel's prophecy underscores the reality that turning away from God's commandments leads to inevitable decline and destruction.