Ezekiel 21:18 (KJV)

What does Ezekiel 21:18 mean?

Ezekiel 21:18 records that God spoke to Ezekiel again, giving him a new message to deliver. The verse marks the beginning of a fresh instruction or prophecy from God to the prophet.

In this setting, Ezekiel is a prophet living among the Jewish exiles in Babylon. The phrase signals a transition, showing that God is actively guiding Ezekiel with specific words for the people. This verse prepares the reader for the detailed message that follows, highlighting the ongoing communication between God and His prophet.

The Hebrew behind Ezekiel 21:18

• word (דָּבָר, davar): This Hebrew word means "word," "message," or "matter." In this context, it emphasizes that what follows is not Ezekiel's own idea but a direct message from God.
• LORD (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is the personal name of God used in the Hebrew Bible, often translated as "the LORD." Its use here underscores the authority and source of the message.
• saying (אָמַר, amar): This verb means "to say" or "to speak." It highlights that God is actively communicating, not just inspiring thoughts but giving clear instructions.

Why Ezekiel 21:18 matters

• This verse clarifies that the coming prophecy is not Ezekiel’s own opinion but a direct revelation from God, grounding the authority of everything that follows.
• The verse marks a new phase in the narrative, signaling to the reader that a significant message or instruction is about to be delivered.
• By repeating the formula "the word of the LORD came unto me again," the text emphasizes the ongoing relationship between God and Ezekiel, showing that God continues to speak into the situation of the exiles.