Ezekiel 12:8 (KJV)

What does Ezekiel 12:8 mean?

Ezekiel 12:8 marks the point when the LORD gives Ezekiel a message after Ezekiel has acted out a departure before the people. The verse introduces the LORD’s response, which continues in the following verses.

The words “unto me” identify Ezekiel as the person receiving the message. After Ezekiel carried out the actions described in verse 7, “in the morning” marks the time when the LORD spoke to him.

The Hebrew behind Ezekiel 12:8

• “word” — דָּבָר (davar): This word can mean a word, a matter, or a message. Here it refers to the message that Ezekiel says came from the LORD, rather than to a single word.
• “LORD” — יְהוָה (YHWH): This is the personal name of Israel’s God. The KJV represents the name with “LORD” in capital letters.

Why Ezekiel 12:8 matters

• The acted-out departure is followed by an explanation from the LORD. The phrase “came the word of the LORD” prepares the reader for that explanation, rather than leaving Ezekiel’s actions to speak for themselves.
• The people’s response is part of the exchange. In verse 9, the LORD asks Ezekiel whether the people have asked what he is doing; the message that follows addresses their question.