Ezekiel 11:15

Arabic 2016 (الكِتاب المُقَدَّس: التَّرْجَمَةُ العَرَبِيَّةُ المُبَسَّطَةُ)

«يَا إنْسَانُ، إنَّ الَّذِينَ مَا زَالُوا يَسْكُنُونَ القُدْسَ يَتَكَلَّمُونَ بِشُرُورٍ عَلَى إخْوَتِكَ وَأقرِبَائِكَ وَكُلِّ بَيْتِ إسْرَائِيلَ، فَيَقُولُونَ: ‹قَدِ ابتَعَدُوا كَثِيرًا عَنْ مَحضَرِ اللهِ. لِذَلِكَ فَقَدْ أُعْطِيَتِ الأرْضُ لَنَا.›

What Does This Mean?

This verse from Ezekiel tells us that the people of Jerusalem are saying that those who are not part of their group should stay away from God. They claim the land belongs to them alone. Ezekiel is told by God to remind his people of this injustice.

Explained for Children

Imagine if your friends said that only they could play with a certain toy and that you couldn't even look at it. That's what this verse is about. The people of Jerusalem are saying they are the only ones who can be close to God and that others should stay away.

Historical Background

The book of Ezekiel was written by the prophet Ezekiel around 593-571 BCE. This verse comes from a time when the people of Jerusalem were exiled from their land and were facing the reality of their sins. Ezekiel, a priest, is speaking to the people of Israel, reminding them of their wrong actions.

Living It Out Today

In modern times, we might see this in workplaces where certain groups feel they have exclusive rights to opportunities and tell others they don't belong. This verse reminds us to reject such exclusivity and to be inclusive in our communities.

Topics

• exclusivity
• inclusivity
• community
• justice
• God's promise
• exile

Related Verses

• Genesis 12:1-3
• Psalms 34:12-14
• Isaiah 56:1-8
• Matthew 28:18-20
• Romans 10:12-13

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is speaking in Ezekiel 11:15?

God is speaking to Ezekiel, a prophet, through this verse.

What is the main message of Ezekiel 11:15?

The main message is about the injustice of the people of Jerusalem claiming exclusive rights to God and the land, excluding their brethren.

How can Ezekiel 11:15 apply to modern life?

It can remind us to avoid exclusivity in our communities and to be inclusive, rejecting attitudes that claim certain privileges for a select few.

What does Ezekiel 11:15 say about the relationship between God and the people?

It highlights the tension between those who feel they have exclusive rights to God and the reality that God's grace is meant for all, not just a chosen few.