Then I arose, and went forth into the plain: and, behold, the glory of the LORD stood there, as the glory which I saw by the river of Chebar: and I fell on my face.

EZEKIEL 3:23KJV
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Ezekiel 3:23 (KJV)

What does Ezekiel 3:23 mean?

Ezekiel 3:23 describes the prophet Ezekiel obeying God’s command to go out into the plain, where he again sees the overwhelming glory of the LORD, just as he had seen earlier by the river Chebar. The sight is so powerful that Ezekiel falls face down in awe and reverence.

In this verse, Ezekiel is alone and responding to God’s instructions after receiving his prophetic commission. The “glory of the LORD” refers to a visible, awe-inspiring manifestation of God’s presence, which Ezekiel had previously witnessed in his first vision by the river Chebar. Ezekiel’s reaction—falling on his face—shows deep respect and fear before God’s holiness and majesty.

The Hebrew behind Ezekiel 3:23

  • “Glory” (כָּבוֹד, kavod): This word means weight, honor, or splendor, and in this context, it points to the overwhelming, visible presence of God that Ezekiel experiences. It is not just a feeling but something Ezekiel actually sees.
  • “Plain” (בִּקְעָה, biq‘ah): This term refers to a broad, open valley or flatland. God directs Ezekiel to a specific, open place, emphasizing that this encounter is both real and set apart from others.
  • “Fell” (נָפַל, naphal) “on my face” (עַל־פָּנַי, al-panai): This phrase describes Ezekiel’s physical response—falling face down—which is a common posture of humility and reverence in the presence of God’s glory.

Why Ezekiel 3:23 matters

  • Ezekiel 3:23 shows that Ezekiel’s visions of God’s glory are not limited to one place or time; God’s presence meets him wherever he is sent, reinforcing the reality and seriousness of his calling.
  • The repetition of the vision “as the glory which I saw by the river of Chebar” connects this moment to Ezekiel’s initial call, reminding the reader that his mission is grounded in a direct encounter with God.
  • Ezekiel’s reaction of falling on his face highlights the proper human response to God’s overwhelming holiness and sets the tone for the rest of his prophetic ministry.

Where else these words appear

“Chebar” Hebrew H3529 · used in 8 verses

  • Ezekiel 1:1 Now it came to pass in the thirtieth year, in the fourth month, in the fifth day of the month, as I was among the captives by the river of Chebar, that the heavens were opened, and I saw visions of God.
  • Ezekiel 3:15 Then I came to them of the captivity at Telabib, that dwelt by the river of Chebar, and I sat where they sat, and remained there astonished among them seven days.
  • Ezekiel 10:20 This is the living creature that I saw under the God of Israel by the river of Chebar; and I knew that they were the cherubims.

“plain” Hebrew H1237 · used in 20 verses

  • Genesis 11:2 And it came to pass, as they journeyed from the east, that they found a plain in the land of Shinar; and they dwelt there.
  • Joshua 12:7 And these are the kings of the country which Joshua and the children of Israel smote on this side Jordan on the west, from Baalgad in the valley of Lebanon even unto the mount Halak, that goeth up to Seir; which Joshua gave unto the tribes of Israel for a possession according to their divisions;
  • Isaiah 63:14 As a beast goeth down into the valley, the Spirit of the LORD caused him to rest: so didst thou lead thy people, to make thyself a glorious name.

“river” Hebrew H5104 · used in 109 verses

  • Genesis 2:10 And a river went out of Eden to water the garden; and from thence it was parted, and became into four heads.
  • Ezra 8:31 Then we departed from the river of Ahava on the twelfth day of the first month, to go unto Jerusalem: and the hand of our God was upon us, and he delivered us from the hand of the enemy, and of such as lay in wait by the way.
  • Isaiah 42:15 I will make waste mountains and hills, and dry up all their herbs; and I will make the rivers islands, and I will dry up the pools.