Ezekiel 13:1 (KJV)

What does Ezekiel 13:1 mean?

Ezekiel 13:1 describes how God’s message came directly to Ezekiel, telling him to listen and prepare for what God would say next. This verse sets the stage for a new message or prophecy that Ezekiel is about to receive and share.

In the book of Ezekiel, the phrase “the word of the LORD came unto me, saying” often introduces a new section where God speaks to Ezekiel, who is a prophet living among the Jewish exiles in Babylon. This verse signals a moment when Ezekiel is about to receive specific instructions or warnings from God, marking a clear transition in the narrative.

The Hebrew behind Ezekiel 13:1

• word (דָּבָר, davar): This Hebrew word often means “message” or “matter,” not just a single word. Here, it emphasizes that Ezekiel is receiving a significant communication from God, not just a brief statement.
• LORD (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is the personal name for God in the Hebrew Bible, underscoring that the message comes from the God of Israel, not a general deity.
• saying (אָמַר, amar): This verb means “to say” or “to speak.” It highlights that what follows is a direct quotation or instruction from God, not Ezekiel’s own thoughts.

Why Ezekiel 13:1 matters

• This verse makes it clear that Ezekiel’s message is not his own opinion but comes from God, which gives authority to everything that follows.
• The wording signals a new prophecy, helping readers recognize the structure of the book and understand when a new message begins.
• By naming God specifically as יְהוָה (YHWH), the verse connects this message to the covenant God of Israel, grounding the prophecy in the relationship between God and His people.