King James Version

What Does Ezekiel 36:30 Mean?

Ezekiel 36:30 in the King James Version says “And I will multiply the fruit of the tree, and the increase of the field, that ye shall receive no more reproach of fami... — study this verse from Ezekiel chapter 36 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

And I will multiply the fruit of the tree, and the increase of the field, that ye shall receive no more reproach of famine among the heathen.

Ezekiel 36:30 · KJV


Context

28

And ye shall dwell in the land that I gave to your fathers; and ye shall be my people, and I will be your God.

29

I will also save you from all your uncleannesses: and I will call for the corn, and will increase it, and lay no famine upon you.

30

And I will multiply the fruit of the tree, and the increase of the field, that ye shall receive no more reproach of famine among the heathen.

31

Then shall ye remember your own evil ways, and your doings that were not good, and shall lothe yourselves in your own sight for your iniquities and for your abominations.

32

Not for your sakes do I this, saith the Lord GOD, be it known unto you: be ashamed and confounded for your own ways, O house of Israel.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This verse points toward God's gracious purposes of restoration despite Israel's persistent unfaithfulness. The Reformed emphasis on sovereign grace shines through—restoration doesn't depend on Israel's merit or ability but on God's covenant faithfulness and irrevocable purposes (Romans 11:29). This anticipates new covenant promises where God gives a new heart and His Spirit to enable obedience (Ezekiel 36:26-27). The pattern of judgment followed by grace-based restoration prefigures the gospel: humanity deserves condemnation but receives mercy through Christ's atoning work. God's restoration demonstrates His glory by showing grace triumphs over judgment.

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Historical & Cultural Context

This passage was delivered during the Babylonian exile (c. 586-571 BCE) after Jerusalem's destruction. The exiled community grappled with theological and practical questions: Why had judgment come? Would restoration occur? How should they live in exile? The historical context of ancient Near Eastern covenant patterns, conquest and exile practices, and prophetic literature provides essential background. Archaeological discoveries from this period illuminate the exile's realities and the return's historical fulfillment. Yet Ezekiel's prophecies extend beyond immediate historical context to find fuller realization in Christ and the church, with ultimate consummation in the new creation.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse deepen your understanding of God's character, purposes, or ways of working in history?
  2. What specific application does this passage call you to make in your current circumstances or spiritual life?
  3. How does this Old Testament passage illuminate New Testament teaching about Christ, salvation, or the church?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 14 words
וְהִרְבֵּיתִי֙1 of 14

And I will multiply

H7235

to increase (in whatever respect)

אֶת2 of 14
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

פְּרִ֣י3 of 14

the fruit

H6529

fruit (literally or figuratively)

הָעֵ֔ץ4 of 14

of the tree

H6086

a tree (from its firmness); hence, wood (plural sticks)

וּתְנוּבַ֖ת5 of 14

and the increase

H8570

produce

הַשָּׂדֶ֑ה6 of 14

of the field

H7704

a field (as flat)

לְמַ֗עַן7 of 14
H4616

properly, heed, i.e., purpose; used only adverbially, on account of (as a motive or an aim), teleologically, in order that

אֲ֠שֶׁר8 of 14
H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

לֹ֣א9 of 14
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

תִקְח֥וּ10 of 14

that ye shall receive

H3947

to take (in the widest variety of applications)

ע֛וֹד11 of 14
H5750

properly, iteration or continuance; used only adverbially (with or without preposition), again, repeatedly, still, more

חֶרְפַּ֥ת12 of 14

no more reproach

H2781

contumely, disgrace, the pudenda

רָעָ֖ב13 of 14

of famine

H7458

hunger (more or less extensive)

בַּגּוֹיִֽם׃14 of 14

among the heathen

H1471

a foreign nation; hence, a gentile; also (figuratively) a troop of animals, or a flight of locusts


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 36:30 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 36:30 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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