King James Version

What Does Ezekiel 7:1 Mean?

Ezekiel 7:1 in the King James Version says “Moreover the word of the LORD came unto me, saying,” — study this verse from Ezekiel chapter 7 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Moreover the word of the LORD came unto me, saying,”

Ezekiel 7:1 · KJV

Context

1

Moreover the word of the LORD came unto me, saying,

2

Also, thou son of man, thus saith the Lord GOD unto the land of Israel; An end, the end is come upon the four corners of the land.

3

Now is the end come upon thee, and I will send mine anger upon thee, and will judge thee according to thy ways, and will recompense upon thee all thine abominations. recompense: Heb. give

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Moreover the word of the LORD came unto me, saying, The prophetic formula introduces another divine revelation, this time concerning "the end" (qets, קֵץ) of Israel's probation. Chapter 7 forms a unified prophetic oracle announcing judgment's immediacy using drumbeat repetition of "the end" (verses 2, 3, 6) and "the day" (verses 7, 10, 12). The formula establishes divine origin—what follows isn't Ezekiel's speculation but God's direct communication. This repetitive authentication emphasizes the message's gravity: Israel's final hour has arrived.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Dated to approximately 592-591 BC, this prophecy came roughly five years before Jerusalem's destruction (586 BC). The exiles believed their captivity would be brief and Jerusalem would survive. Ezekiel's message contradicts this false hope, declaring that the end has come. Within a few years, this prophecy would be vindicated when Babylon razed Jerusalem, validating Ezekiel's credentials as true prophet against false prophets promising peace (Jeremiah 28-29; Ezekiel 13).

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the prophetic formula remind us that Scripture originates from God, not human imagination?
  2. What does the theme of 'the end' teach about God's patience having limits?
  3. How should awareness that judgment eventually comes shape our response to warnings?

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

“Moreover 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 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 7:1 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

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