Ezekiel 4:17 - that they may lack bread and water, be dismayed one with another, and pine away in their iniquity.

Generated Verse: Ezekiel 4:17

What does "Ezekiel 4:17" mean?


This verse from Ezekiel 4:17 is a prophecy outlining the consequences of the people of Israel's sin and rebellion against God. Let's break it down phrase by phrase:

"That they may lack bread and water..." This refers to a severe famine. Bread and water were the staples of life in ancient Israel, and their absence would signify dire scarcity and deprivation. It highlights the physical suffering that will come as a result of their disobedience.

"...be dismayed one with another..." This describes the social and emotional consequences. "Dismayed" means to be filled with anxiety, fear, and hopelessness. The phrase "one with another" suggests a breakdown of social bonds and trust. In their desperation, they will be a source of fear and dread to each other, potentially turning against each other for survival. It reveals a society in chaos, where the sense of community has been shattered.

"...and pine away in their iniquity." "Pine away" means to waste away, wither, or decline, both physically and spiritually. "Iniquity" refers to their sin and wickedness. This indicates that their suffering is not just physical; they will also experience a deep sense of guilt and despair. They will understand that their suffering is a direct result of their own choices and their rejection of God. It's a picture of a slow, agonizing decline, fueled by both physical starvation and spiritual anguish.

In summary, the verse depicts a devastating scenario where the people of Israel will face:

Physical hardship: Famine and lack of basic necessities.
Social breakdown: Fear and distrust among each other.
Spiritual anguish: A slow decline due to their sin and guilt.

The verse illustrates the severity of God's judgment on a people who have persistently rejected Him and His commands. It's a stark warning about the consequences of disobedience and the importance of faithfulness. It also emphasizes that judgment is not just physical, but also deeply impacts the social and spiritual well-being of a community.

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