King James Version

What Does Ezekiel 21:18 Mean?

Ezekiel 21:18 in the King James Version says “The word of the LORD came unto me again, saying, — study this verse from Ezekiel chapter 21 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

The word of the LORD came unto me again, saying,

Ezekiel 21:18 · KJV


Context

16

Go thee one way or other, either on the right hand, or on the left, whithersoever thy face is set. or on: Heb. set thyself, take the left hand

17

I will also smite mine hands together, and I will cause my fury to rest: I the LORD have said it.

18

The word of the LORD came unto me again, saying,

19

Also, thou son of man, appoint thee two ways, that the sword of the king of Babylon may come: both twain shall come forth out of one land: and choose thou a place, choose it at the head of the way to the city.

20

Appoint a way, that the sword may come to Rabbath of the Ammonites , and to Judah in Jerusalem the defenced.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
'The word of the LORD came unto me again, saying.' Another oracle introduction, continuing the sword theme. The repetition emphasizes the message's importance. Multiple prophetic utterances on Jerusalem's judgment ensure the exiles cannot claim ignorance when it occurs.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Ezekiel's repeated oracles served a pastoral function—preparing the exiles emotionally and theologically for Jerusalem's fall. When the catastrophic news arrived, they would understand it as God's decreed judgment, not cosmic accident or divine weakness.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does preparation for difficult events through God's word help us process them theologically?
  2. What is the pastoral value of repeated teaching on challenging themes?

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

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 again 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 21:18 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

Continue Your Study