Ezekiel 20:17

Arabic Simplified (الكِتاب المُقَدَّس: التَّرْجَمَةُ العَرَبِيَّةُ المُبَسَّطَةُ)

وَلَكِنِّي رَحَمتُهُمْ وَلَمْ أُهلِكْهُمْ، وَلَمْ أُبِدْهُمْ تَمَامًا فِي البرِّيَّةِ.

What Does This Mean?

This verse is spoken by God, who says that despite the Israelites' disobedience, He did not destroy them in the wilderness. God shows mercy and spares them from total destruction.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a favorite toy that keeps breaking rules. Instead of throwing it away, you decide to keep it and give it another chance. That's like what God did for the Israelites in this verse.

Historical Background

Ezekiel 20:17 is part of the prophetic book written by Ezekiel, a priest and prophet who lived around 600 BC. This verse reflects on God's relationship with the Israelites during their time in the wilderness, emphasizing God's mercy and forgiveness.

Living It Out Today

In modern life, this verse can be seen as a reminder to show mercy and forgiveness to others, even when they have made mistakes. Just like God did not abandon the Israelites, we can choose to keep trying and supporting others.

Topics

• mercy
• forgiveness
• wilderness
• obedience
• divine protection
• God's character

Related Verses

• Exodus 32:11-14
• Psalms 103:8-14
• Jeremiah 31:3
• Romans 2:4
• 2 Peter 3:9

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did God spare the Israelites in the wilderness?

God spared the Israelites because He is merciful and wanted to continue His covenant with them, even despite their disobedience.

What does this verse teach us about God's character?

This verse shows God's compassionate character, emphasizing His willingness to forgive and His patience with His people.

How can we apply this verse in our daily lives?

We can apply this verse by showing mercy and forgiveness to others, just as God did with the Israelites, understanding that mistakes do not define a person's future.

What were the Israelites doing that led to God's consideration of destroying them?

The Israelites were disobeying God's commands and worshipping other gods, which was a breach of their covenant relationship with Him.