Ezekiel 37:6 - I will lay sinews on you, and will bring up flesh on you, and cover you with skin, and put breath in you, and you will live. Then you will know that I am Yahweh.”’”

Generated Verse: Ezekiel 37:6

What does "Ezekiel 37:6" mean?


This verse is a key part of the famous "Valley of Dry Bones" vision in Ezekiel 37. It's a powerful image illustrating God's ability to resurrect and restore what seems utterly dead and hopeless. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:

"I will lay sinews on you...": This refers to God providing the foundational structure and framework for life. Sinews (tendons) connect muscle to bone, allowing movement and strength. It's the beginning of rebuilding.

"...and will bring up flesh on you...": Flesh symbolizes substance and body. It represents the covering of the skeletal structure, giving form and weight to the developing being.

"...and cover you with skin...": Skin is the outer layer, providing protection and definition. It represents the final physical form and appearance.

"...and put breath in you, and you will live.": This is the crucial element that transforms the anatomical form into a living being. "Breath" (Hebrew: ruach) is often associated with the Spirit of God, the life-giving force. It signifies the spark of life, the animation that brings the body to existence.

"Then you will know that I am Yahweh.” This is the ultimate purpose of the entire process. It's not just about physical restoration; it's about recognizing God's power and sovereignty. The resurrection serves as a clear demonstration of God's divine identity and ability to fulfill promises.

In the context of Ezekiel 37, the verse has two primary levels of meaning:

1. Literal/Physical Restoration: On one level, the vision represents the literal return of the exiled Israelites to their homeland. After decades of dispersion and apparent hopelessness in Babylon, God promises to gather them back to their land and rebuild their nation.

2. Spiritual Restoration: On a deeper level, the vision symbolizes spiritual renewal and revival. The Israelites were spiritually dead, separated from God by their sin and idolatry. God promises to cleanse them, give them a new heart, and restore their covenant relationship with Him. This is a process of transformation, where God breathes new life into their spiritual state.

Key Takeaways:

God's Power Over Death: The verse demonstrates God's power to overcome even the most hopeless situations, including physical and spiritual death.
Restoration and Renewal: It offers a message of hope for restoration and renewal, both for individuals and communities.
Knowledge of God: The ultimate goal is to bring people to a deeper understanding and relationship with God. The miraculous restoration serves as a catalyst for recognizing God's power and authority.
The Role of the Spirit: The "breath" represents the life-giving power of God's Spirit, essential for both physical and spiritual life.

In summary, Ezekiel 37:6 is a powerful verse that speaks of God's ability to resurrect and restore what seems dead. It conveys hope, emphasizes God's sovereignty, and highlights the importance of spiritual renewal and knowing God.