Ezekiel 5:3

But you are to take a few strands of hair and secure them in the folds of your garment.

Study Bible

But you are to take a few strands of hair
In this passage, Ezekiel is instructed to take a few strands of hair, symbolizing a remnant. Throughout the Bible, the concept of a remnant is significant, often representing those who remain faithful to God amidst widespread unfaithfulness. This idea is echoed in passages like Isaiah 10:20-22, where a remnant of Israel returns to God. The act of taking a few strands signifies God's mercy and the preservation of a faithful group despite impending judgment.

and secure them in the folds of your garment.
Securing the strands in the folds of a garment suggests protection and care. In ancient Near Eastern culture, garments were often used to carry and protect valuable items, indicating the preciousness of the remnant. This imagery can be connected to the protective nature of God, as seen in Psalm 91:4, where God covers His people with His feathers. Additionally, the garment can symbolize righteousness, as in Isaiah 61:10, where garments of salvation and robes of righteousness are mentioned. This act foreshadows the ultimate protection and salvation found in Jesus Christ, who is the fulfillment of God's promise to preserve a faithful remnant.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. He is known for his symbolic actions and visions.

2. Jerusalem
The city that is the focal point of Ezekiel's prophecies, representing the spiritual and physical center of the Israelites.

3. Babylonian Exile
The period during which the Israelites were taken captive by the Babylonians, serving as a backdrop for Ezekiel's prophecies.

4. Symbolic Action
Ezekiel's act of taking a few strands of hair and securing them in his garment symbolizes God's preservation of a remnant of His people.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness to Preserve a Remnant
Despite judgment, God remains faithful to His covenant by preserving a remnant, symbolized by the few strands of hair. This teaches us about God's unwavering commitment to His promises.

Symbolism in Prophetic Actions
Ezekiel's actions are rich in symbolism, reminding us to seek deeper spiritual truths in God's Word and to understand His messages beyond the literal.

Hope Amidst Judgment
The preservation of a remnant offers hope that God’s plans for His people include restoration and redemption, even when facing severe consequences for sin.

Personal Reflection on Being Part of the Remnant
Believers are encouraged to reflect on their own faithfulness and commitment to God, aspiring to be part of the remnant that remains true to Him.

The Importance of Obedience
Ezekiel's obedience in performing symbolic acts underscores the importance of following God's instructions, even when they seem unusual or challenging.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a remnant in Ezekiel 5:3 provide hope for believers today?

2. In what ways can we see God's faithfulness in preserving a remnant throughout biblical history and in our own lives?

3. How can we apply the symbolism of Ezekiel's actions to our understanding of God's messages in the Bible?

4. What are some modern-day examples of being part of a faithful remnant in a world that often turns away from God?

5. How can we ensure that we are obedient to God's instructions, even when they seem difficult or counter-cultural?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 6:13
This verse speaks of a remnant that will remain, similar to the few strands of hair Ezekiel secures, symbolizing hope and continuity for God's people.

Romans 11:5
Paul speaks of a remnant chosen by grace, connecting to the idea of God preserving a faithful group even in times of judgment.

Zechariah 13:8-9
This passage discusses the refining of a remnant, paralleling the preservation and purification themes in Ezekiel's symbolic act.