King James Version

What Does Ezekiel 12:21 Mean?

Ezekiel 12:21 in the King James Version says “And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying,” — study this verse from Ezekiel chapter 12 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying,”

Ezekiel 12:21 · KJV

Context

19

And say unto the people of the land, Thus saith the Lord GOD of the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and of the land of Israel; They shall eat their bread with carefulness, and drink their water with astonishment, that her land may be desolate from all that is therein, because of the violence of all them that dwell therein. all that: Heb. the fulness thereof

20

And the cities that are inhabited shall be laid waste, and the land shall be desolate; and ye shall know that I am the LORD.

21

And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying,

22

Son of man, what is that proverb that ye have in the land of Israel, saying, The days are prolonged, and every vision faileth?

23

Tell them therefore, Thus saith the Lord GOD; I will make this proverb to cease, and they shall no more use it as a proverb in Israel; but say unto them, The days are at hand, and the effect of every vision.

Read Ezekiel 12 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Another oracle begins: 'And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying.' This formula introduces yet another prophetic message, continuing the pattern of multiple warnings. The accumulation demonstrates thorough testimony—God leaves no excuse, warning repeatedly through various images and angles. This persistence reveals both God's justice (comprehensive warning) and His patience (repeated opportunities for repentance).

The Hebrew formula vayehi devar-Yahweh elai (וַיְהִי דְבַר־יְהוָה אֵלַי, 'and the word of Yahweh came to me') is Ezekiel's characteristic way of introducing new oracles. Its repetition emphasizes that Ezekiel didn't invent messages but received and transmitted divine revelation. Each oracle stands as independent divine word, though contributing to cumulative message.

From a Reformed perspective, the multiplication of warnings demonstrates God's common grace extended even to those under covenant curse. He desires that the wicked turn from sin and live (Ezekiel 18:23, 32, 33:11, 2 Peter 3:9). Multiple warnings provide maximum opportunity for repentance, showing that when judgment finally comes, it's thoroughly warranted by persistent impenitence despite ample warning.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Prophetic literature typically contains collections of oracles delivered over extended periods, later compiled into books. Ezekiel's ministry spanned over twenty years (593-571 BC based on dated oracles). The accumulation of messages demonstrates sustained prophetic witness over time. This pattern parallels other prophets—Isaiah, Jeremiah, Minor Prophets—who ministered for decades, repeatedly warning their generations.

The repeated formula also serves literary function, clearly marking oracle boundaries and organizing the prophetic book. Ancient readers/hearers could recognize where one message ended and another began. This careful structuring distinguishes genuine prophetic literature from random sayings collections, demonstrating intentional composition and preservation of distinct divine messages.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the repetition of 'the word of the LORD came' emphasize Scripture's divine origin versus human invention?
  2. What does God's pattern of multiple warnings before judgment teach about His justice and patience?
  3. In what ways should the accumulation of biblical warnings shape our urgency about repentance and faith?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
וַיְהִ֥י1 of 5
H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

דְבַר2 of 5

“And the word”

H1697

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

יְהוָ֖ה3 of 5

“of the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

אֵלַ֥י4 of 5
H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

לֵאמֹֽר׃5 of 5

“came unto me saying”

H559

to say (used with great latitude)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Ezekiel. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Ezekiel 12:21 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Test Your Knowledge

Ezekiel 12 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterEzekiel Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read Ezekiel 12 with CommentaryAll Ezekiel ChaptersComplete Ezekiel QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes