King James Version

What Does Ezekiel 24:20 Mean?

Ezekiel 24:20 in the King James Version says “Then I answered them, The word of the LORD came unto me, saying,” — study this verse from Ezekiel chapter 24 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Then I answered them, The word of the LORD came unto me, saying,”

Ezekiel 24:20 · KJV

Context

18

So I spake unto the people in the morning: and at even my wife died; and I did in the morning as I was commanded.

19

And the people said unto me, Wilt thou not tell us what these things are to us, that thou doest so?

20

Then I answered them, The word of the LORD came unto me, saying,

21

Speak unto the house of Israel, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I will profane my sanctuary, the excellency of your strength, the desire of your eyes, and that which your soul pitieth; and your sons and your daughters whom ye have left shall fall by the sword. that: Heb. the pity of your soul

22

And ye shall do as I have done: ye shall not cover your lips, nor eat the bread of men.

Read Ezekiel 24 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And ye shall do as I have done continues applying the sign. Ye shall not cover your lips (no verbal mourning), nor eat the bread of men (no comfort from others) predicts the exiles' response when news arrives. Ye shall pine away for your iniquities recognizes that grief will be mixed with guilt—they'll know judgment is deserved. And mourn one toward another indicates communal rather than individual mourning. When Jerusalem falls, the exiles won't need explanation—they'll understand immediately that sin brought judgment. Their mourning will include repentance, recognizing their guilt in the catastrophe.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

When word of Jerusalem's fall reached Babylon (Ezekiel 33:21-22, about 6 months after the event due to travel time), the exiles responded with the numbness and guilty grief Ezekiel prophesied. They understood their sin had caused it. This appropriate grief began their path toward restoration, as acknowledgment of guilt precedes forgiveness.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does recognizing our guilt in catastrophe differ from mere grief?
  2. What role does communal rather than individual mourning play in restoration?
  3. Why must we 'pine away for our iniquities' as part of healing?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
לֵאמֹֽר׃1 of 7

“Then I answered”

H559

to say (used with great latitude)

אֲלֵיהֶ֑ם2 of 7
H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

דְּבַ֨ר3 of 7

“them The word”

H1697

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

יְהוָ֔ה4 of 7

“of the LORD”

H3068

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

הָיָ֥ה5 of 7
H1961

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

אֵלַ֖י6 of 7
H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

לֵאמֹֽר׃7 of 7

“Then I answered”

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 24:20 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 24 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterEzekiel Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read Ezekiel 24 with CommentaryAll Ezekiel ChaptersComplete Ezekiel QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes