Ezekiel 31:1

In the eleventh year, on the first day of the third month, the word of the LORD came to me, saying,

Study Bible

In the eleventh year
This refers to the eleventh year of King Zedekiah's reign, which is around 587 BC. This period is significant as it is close to the fall of Jerusalem to the Babylonians. The timing underscores the urgency and gravity of the prophetic message Ezekiel is about to deliver.

on the first day of the third month
The third month in the Hebrew calendar is Sivan, which corresponds to late May or early June. This timing is significant for agricultural societies, marking the end of the barley harvest and the beginning of the wheat harvest. It may symbolize a time of transition or judgment.

the word of the LORD came to me
This phrase indicates divine revelation. Ezekiel, as a prophet, receives direct communication from God. This underscores the authority and authenticity of the message. The phrase is common in prophetic literature, emphasizing that the message is not of human origin but from God.

saying
This introduces the content of the divine message. It prepares the reader for the specific words and instructions that follow, which are meant to convey God's will and purpose. The use of "saying" highlights the importance of listening and understanding the forthcoming prophecy.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God during the Babylonian exile, known for his vivid visions and symbolic acts. He served as a watchman for the house of Israel, delivering God's messages of judgment and hope.

2. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who speaks to Ezekiel. This emphasizes the divine authority and origin of the message.

3. The Eleventh Year
This refers to the eleventh year of King Jehoiachin's exile, which helps to date the prophecy and provides historical context.

4. The First Day of the Third Month
This specific date marks the timing of the prophecy, showing the precision and order in God's communication.

5. Babylonian Exile
The historical backdrop of Ezekiel's ministry, where the Israelites were in captivity, serving as a period of judgment and reflection for the nation.

Teaching Points

Divine Timing and Order
God's messages come at specific times, showing His sovereignty and control over history. We should trust in His perfect timing in our lives.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets like Ezekiel were chosen to deliver God's word. Today, we are called to be messengers of God's truth in our own contexts.

Listening to God's Word
Just as Ezekiel received the word of the LORD, we must be attentive to God's voice through Scripture and prayer.

Historical Context Matters
Understanding the historical and cultural background of biblical texts enriches our comprehension and application of God's word.

Hope in Exile
Even in times of judgment or difficulty, God provides hope and a future for His people. We can find assurance in His promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the historical context of the Babylonian exile enhance our interpretation of Ezekiel 31:1?

2. In what ways can we be attentive to God's timing in our own lives, as seen in the precise dating of this prophecy?

3. How does the role of a prophet in the Old Testament compare to our role as Christians today in sharing God's message?

4. What lessons can we learn from the experiences of the Israelites in exile that apply to our current spiritual journey?

5. How can we find hope and assurance in God's promises during challenging times, similar to the messages given to the exiles in Babylon?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 29
This chapter also addresses the exiles in Babylon, providing a message of hope and future restoration, similar to the themes found in Ezekiel's prophecies.

Isaiah 6
Isaiah's calling as a prophet parallels Ezekiel's experience, highlighting the role of prophets in delivering God's messages to His people.

Daniel 9
Daniel's prayer and understanding of the exile period connect with Ezekiel's context, emphasizing the importance of seeking God during times of judgment.