Ezekiel 7:15 (KJV)

What does Ezekiel 7:15 mean?

Ezekiel 7:15 describes how danger and destruction will surround the people: those outside the city will be killed by the sword, while those inside will suffer from famine and disease. The verse shows that no matter where people try to escape, judgment will reach them in different forms.

The prophet Ezekiel is speaking God’s warning to the people of Jerusalem as disaster approaches because of their unfaithfulness. The verse paints a vivid picture of total inescapability: “the sword” refers to invading armies outside the city, while “famine” and “pestilence” threaten those trapped inside. This is part of a larger message about the certainty and completeness of the coming judgment.

The Hebrew behind Ezekiel 7:15

• “Sword” (חֶרֶב, cherev): This word often means a literal weapon, but here it stands for violent death or war. Its use highlights the threat from outside enemies.
• “Pestilence” (דֶּבֶר, dever): This word refers to deadly disease or plague, a common result of siege conditions. It emphasizes that even those not killed by violence face mortal danger.
• “Famine” (רָעָב, ra’av): This term means severe hunger or starvation, which often happened when cities were surrounded and supplies cut off. It shows the suffering inside the city.
• “Devour” (אָכַל, akhal): This word means “to eat” or “consume,” but here it is used figuratively for being destroyed or wiped out by famine and disease.

Why Ezekiel 7:15 matters

• Ezekiel 7:15 clarifies that there is no safe place—both the countryside and the city are under threat, countering any hope of escape.
• The verse highlights the completeness of the coming judgment, showing that it will affect everyone, regardless of where they are.
• In the wider context, this verse reinforces Ezekiel’s message that the disaster is a direct result of the people’s actions and is unavoidable.