Ezekiel 17:11 (KJV)

What does Ezekiel 17:11 mean?

Ezekiel 17:11 states that God’s message came to Ezekiel, introducing a new word or revelation from the LORD. This verse signals a transition, preparing the reader for what God is about to explain or reveal next through Ezekiel.

In the context of the book, Ezekiel is a prophet speaking to the people of Israel during their exile in Babylon. Here, Ezekiel receives a direct communication from God, which often marks the beginning of a new prophecy or explanation. The verse sets the stage for the interpretation of the parable that came just before, showing that what follows is not Ezekiel’s own thoughts but a message from God.

The Hebrew behind Ezekiel 17:11

• word (דָּבָר, davar): This word means “message,” “matter,” or “thing.” In prophetic books, it often signals an important communication from God, stressing that what follows carries divine authority.
• LORD (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is the personal name of God used in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing that the message is coming from Israel’s covenant God, not just a generic deity.
• saying (אָמַר, amar): This verb means “to say” or “to speak.” Its use here highlights that God is actively addressing Ezekiel, not just inspiring him generally.

Why Ezekiel 17:11 matters

• Ezekiel 17:11 clarifies that the explanation or message which follows is not Ezekiel’s own interpretation but a direct revelation from God, giving it special weight and authority.
• The verse marks a shift from the parable in the earlier verses to its divine interpretation, helping readers understand that God himself is about to explain the meaning.
• Recognizing this transition helps avoid confusion, showing that the next section is not a new story but a divinely given explanation of what has just been described.