King James Version

What Does Ezekiel 21:13 Mean?

Because it is a trial, and what if the sword contemn even the rod? it shall be no more, saith the Lord GOD. Because: or, When the trial hath been, what then? shall they not also belong to the despising rod?

Context

11

And he hath given it to be furbished, that it may be handled : this sword is sharpened, and it is furbished, to give it into the hand of the slayer.

12

Cry and howl, son of man: for it shall be upon my people, it shall be upon all the princes of Israel: terrors by reason of the sword shall be upon my people: smite therefore upon thy thigh. terrors: or, they are thrust down to the sword with my people

13

Because it is a trial, and what if the sword contemn even the rod? it shall be no more, saith the Lord GOD. Because: or, When the trial hath been, what then? shall they not also belong to the despising rod?

14

Thou therefore, son of man, prophesy, and smite thine hands together, and let the sword be doubled the third time, the sword of the slain: it is the sword of the great men that are slain, which entereth into their privy chambers. hands: Heb. hand to hand

15

I have set the point of the sword against all their gates, that their heart may faint, and their ruins be multiplied: ah! it is made bright, it is wrapped up for the slaughter. point: or, glittering, or, fear wrapped up: or, sharpened

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(13) **Because it is a trial.**—Here again the original is obscure from its conciseness and abruptness, leading to great variety of interpretation. Neither the text nor the margin of our translation is quite intelligible. The words for “rod” and “contemn” are the same as in Ezekiel 21:10, and must be taken in the same sense. The most satisfactory translation is this: “For it (the sword) has been proved (viz., on others), and what if this contemning rod shall be no more?” *i.e., *the power of the sword of Babylon has already been proved; and the sceptre of Judah, which despises it, shall be clean swept away. Various other translations, differing in detail, give the same general sense.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

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 21:13 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Ezekiel 21:13

Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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