What is the meaning of Ezekiel 21:19? Now you, son of man Ezekiel is again addressed personally, underscoring his role as God’s appointed watchman (Ezekiel 3:17; 33:7). By calling him “son of man,” the LORD reminds both the prophet and his hearers that the message comes from the sovereign God, not from Ezekiel’s own imagination. mark out two roads The LORD commands a dramatic sign-act: draw or carve two diverging routes. Ezekiel’s ministry often included visible object lessons (Ezekiel 4:1-3; 5:1-4). • Visual prophecy grabs attention and makes the coming judgment unmistakably clear. • Two roads depict a real military choice that Nebuchadnezzar will face shortly. for the sword of the king of Babylon to take “The sword” pictures Babylon’s unstoppable army (Jeremiah 25:9; Isaiah 10:5). Though wielded by a pagan king, it is ultimately the LORD’s instrument—His justice in motion (Ezekiel 30:24). • God is never passive; He directs even foreign powers to accomplish His righteous purposes (Proverbs 21:1). both starting from the same land Both routes begin in Babylon, showing a single source of threat. Judgment on different nations flows from one divine decision. There is no escape clause for Judah simply because another city is also in danger. And make a signpost The signpost (literally a hand or guide marker) symbolizes the moment of decision. In verses 20-23 we learn that Nebuchadnezzar will use pagan divination to pick his target, but God already knows—and guides—the outcome. • What looks like chance to men is foreknown and fore-ruled by the LORD (Psalm 33:10-11). • The signpost guarantees that whichever path is chosen, God’s prophecy stands. where the road branches off to each city Verse 20 names the two cities: Rabbah of Ammon and Jerusalem. Both will face Babylon’s sword, yet Jerusalem is singled out for the heaviest blow (2 Kings 25:1-10; Jeremiah 52:4-12). • Judah’s greater privilege brought greater accountability (Amos 3:2). • Ammon will also be judged (Ezekiel 25:1-7), proving the impartial justice of God. summary Ezekiel 21:19 uses a vivid roadside drama to announce that the LORD is directing Babylon’s campaign against Jerusalem and its neighbors. The dual roads stress divine sovereignty over historical events, the certainty of judgment on sin, and the futility of trusting in chance or human alliances. God’s Word is literal and sure; heed it before the sword arrives. |
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