King James Version

What Does Ezekiel 12:26 Mean?

Ezekiel 12:26 in the King James Version says “Again the word of the LORD came to me, saying, — study this verse from Ezekiel chapter 12 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

Again the word of the LORD came to me, saying,

Ezekiel 12:26 · KJV


Context

24

For there shall be no more any vain vision nor flattering divination within the house of Israel.

25

For I am the LORD: I will speak, and the word that I shall speak shall come to pass; it shall be no more prolonged: for in your days, O rebellious house, will I say the word, and will perform it, saith the Lord GOD.

26

Again the word of the LORD came to me, saying,

27

Son of man, behold, they of the house of Israel say, The vision that he seeth is for many days to come, and he prophesieth of the times that are far off.

28

Therefore say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; There shall none of my words be prolonged any more, but the word which I have spoken shall be done, saith the Lord GOD.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Another prophetic word comes: 'Again the word of the LORD came to me, saying.' This formula introduces yet another oracle addressing skepticism. The repetition emphasizes God's patience and thoroughness in warning. Multiple oracles on similar themes (delayed judgment, false prophets, certainty of fulfillment) ensure comprehensive testimony removing all excuse.

The phrase 'again' (vayehi, וַיְהִי) indicates continued revelation—God persistently speaks to address ongoing issues. The skepticism addressed in following verses required repeated confrontation. God doesn't give one warning and cease; He multiplies witnesses, demonstrating both patience and ensuring thorough condemnation of impenitence.

From a Reformed perspective, this illustrates God's common grace extending to those under judgment. Even covenant-breakers receive repeated warnings, opportunities for repentance. This demonstrates that when judgment comes, it's thoroughly deserved—no one can claim insufficient warning. God's justice is vindicated by exhaustive testimony before executing sentence.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The historical context shows widespread skepticism among exiles about prophetic warnings. They'd heard predictions of Jerusalem's fall for years, yet the city stood. This created mocking dismissal of prophecy as false or irrelevant to their generation. Similar patterns appear throughout history—prolonged warnings create complacency rather than urgency. Jesus warned of similar attitudes before final judgment (Matthew 24:48-51, 2 Peter 3:3-4).

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God's pattern of repeated warnings demonstrate both His patience and His justice?
  2. What responsibility do people bear when they receive multiple warnings but persist in unbelief?
  3. In what ways does human skepticism about divine warnings reveal hard-heartedness rather than wisdom?

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

Again 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 to 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 12:26 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

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