Ezekiel 21:14
Arabic 2016 (الكِتاب المُقَدَّس: التَّرْجَمَةُ العَرَبِيَّةُ المُبَسَّطَةُ)
«أمَّا أنْتَ يَا إنْسَانُ، فَاضرِبْ يَدًا بِيَدٍ، وَقُلْ لِشَعْبِي: يَضْرِبُ السَّيْفُ القَتلَى مَرَّتَيْنِ، بَلْ ثَلَاثَ مَرَّاتٍ. يَخْتَرِقُ سَيْفُ المَذْبَحَةِ هَذَا جَسدًا وَرَاءَ آخَرَ.
What Does This Mean?
In this verse, God is speaking to Ezekiel, telling him to prophesy and clap his hands to emphasize that the sword of judgment will strike three times, targeting even the leaders in their private rooms. The message is about God's judgment coming upon the leaders.
Explained for Children
Imagine you're playing a game where you have to clap to show something important is happening. In this case, God is telling Ezekiel to clap because he's going to make sure some bad things happen to the leaders who have done wrong things, even in their secret places.
Historical Background
Ezekiel, a prophet, wrote this during the Babylonian exile around 593-571 BCE. He was addressing the Israelites, warning them about God's judgment due to their disobedience. The cultural setting was one of exile and despair, with a need for spiritual guidance and warning.
Living It Out Today
In modern times, this verse can remind us that our actions have consequences. Just as leaders in Ezekiel's time faced judgment for their wrongdoings, in today's world, leaders and individuals are also held accountable for their actions, even in their private lives.
Topics
judgmentleadershipconsequencesspiritual guidanceaccountabilitywarning
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to 'smite hands together' in this verse?
Smiting hands together is a gesture of emphasis or a way to show the seriousness of a message. In this context, Ezekiel is being told to emphasize the coming judgment by clapping his hands.
Why are the leaders being targeted by the sword of judgment?
The leaders are being targeted because they are responsible for their actions and the actions of their followers. Their wrongdoings have led to the judgment from God, emphasizing that no one is exempt from the consequences of their actions.
How does this verse apply to modern leaders?
This verse serves as a reminder to modern leaders that they are accountable for their actions, even in their private lives. Just as in Ezekiel's time, leaders today face consequences for their decisions and behaviors.
What can we learn about God's judgment from this verse?
From this verse, we learn that God's judgment is comprehensive and reaches even into the private lives of leaders. It underscores the importance of integrity and righteousness in all aspects of life.