What is the meaning of Ezekiel 28:24? For the people of Israel • The promise is directed specifically to the covenant nation. God has never lost sight of His people, even in exile (Jeremiah 31:3; Romans 11:1–2). • Throughout Ezekiel, the Lord repeatedly addresses “the house of Israel,” underscoring His unwavering commitment despite their failures (Ezekiel 36:22). • This verse anticipates national restoration, a theme expanded in Ezekiel 28:25–26 where Israel is gathered “from the peoples among whom they have been scattered” and “will dwell securely.” will no longer face a pricking brier • “Pricking brier” pictures constant irritation from hostile neighbors. Earlier, God warned that pagan nations would become “thorns in your sides” if Israel failed to drive them out (Numbers 33:55). • Here, the Lord reverses that curse: the relentless irritation is coming to an end. Compare Isaiah 11:13, where Ephraim and Judah cease their rivalry, and Zephaniah 3:15, “The LORD has taken away your punishment… never again will you fear any harm.” or a painful thorn • The repetition intensifies the idea: no more stinging persecution. David used similar language for enemies who “cannot be taken in the hand” (2 Samuel 23:6). • God promises complete removal of the torment, not just a reduction. This foreshadows the messianic hope of total peace (Isaiah 9:7; Micah 4:3–4). from all around them who treat them with contempt • The threat came from surrounding nations—Philistia, Edom, Ammon, and others who scorned Israel’s downfall (Ezekiel 25–26). • God will judge those nations (Ezekiel 25:1–17) and shield His people, fulfilling the covenant promise of protection (Genesis 12:3; Zechariah 2:8). • Future security is also pictured in Ezekiel 34:28: “They will no longer be prey for the nations… and they will live in safety.” Then they will know that I am the Lord GOD • This refrain echoes throughout Ezekiel (e.g., 6:7; 37:6). Deliverance is not merely for Israel’s comfort but for deeper recognition of Yahweh’s sovereignty. • When external oppression ceases, Israel will see clearly that only the LORD accomplished their safety (Psalm 124:1–8). • The ultimate fulfillment points to the messianic kingdom where all nations acknowledge the Lord (Zechariah 14:9; Revelation 11:15). summary Ezekiel 28:24 promises Israel a future free from the constant harassment of hostile neighbors. God pledges to remove every “pricking brier” and “painful thorn,” judge the contemptuous nations, and establish secure peace for His people. This deliverance will lead Israel to recognize unmistakably that the LORD alone is their covenant-keeping Redeemer and Protector. |
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