Ezekiel 6:3

You are to say: 'O mountains of Israel, hear the word of the Lord GOD! This is what the Lord GOD says to the mountains and hills, to the ravines and valleys: I am about to bring a sword against you, and I will destroy your high places.

Study Bible

and say
This phrase introduces a prophetic declaration, emphasizing the role of the prophet as a mouthpiece for God. In Hebrew, the word for "say" is "אָמַר" (amar), which is often used in the context of divine communication. This highlights the authority and seriousness of the message that follows, as it is not merely Ezekiel's words but God's direct communication to His people.

O mountains of Israel
The "mountains of Israel" symbolize the entire land and its people. In the Hebrew context, mountains often represent stability, permanence, and a place of divine encounter. Historically, the mountains of Israel were sites of both true worship and idolatrous practices. This address signifies that the judgment and message are directed towards the heart of the nation, encompassing both its physical and spiritual state.

hear the word of the Lord GOD!
This command underscores the importance of listening to God's message. The Hebrew word for "hear" is "שָׁמַע" (shama), which implies not just hearing but obeying. The use of "Lord GOD" (Adonai Yahweh) combines the sovereign authority of God with His covenantal name, reminding Israel of their relationship with Him and the seriousness of their covenant obligations.

This is what the Lord GOD says to the mountains and hills
Reiterating the divine source of the message, this phrase emphasizes that the forthcoming words are not human opinions but divine decrees. The mention of "mountains and hills" again highlights the comprehensive nature of the message, addressing all high places where idolatry was often practiced. It serves as a reminder of God's omnipresence and His concern for all aspects of creation.

to the ravines and valleys
By including "ravines and valleys," the prophecy encompasses the entire landscape of Israel, symbolizing the totality of the judgment. These geographical features often represent places of refuge or hidden sin. Historically, valleys were sites of battles and significant events in Israel's history, thus serving as a reminder of past failures and the need for repentance.

I will bring a sword against you
The "sword" is a metaphor for judgment and destruction. In the Hebrew Bible, the sword often symbolizes divine retribution and the execution of justice. This phrase indicates that God's judgment is imminent and unavoidable, serving as a call to repentance and a warning of the consequences of continued disobedience.

and I will destroy your high places
"High places" were sites of idol worship, often located on elevated ground. The Hebrew term "בָּמוֹת" (bamot) refers to these locations, which were contrary to the worship of Yahweh. The destruction of high places signifies the removal of idolatry and a call to return to true worship. It reflects God's desire for purity and holiness among His people, emphasizing the need to eliminate anything that detracts from His glory.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the Israelites during their exile in Babylon. He is known for his vivid visions and symbolic acts.

2. Mountains of Israel
Symbolic of the entire land of Israel, often representing the places of idolatry and false worship that the Israelites engaged in.

3. High Places
Elevated sites where the Israelites engaged in idol worship, contrary to God's commandments. These were often associated with pagan rituals.

4. The Lord GOD
The sovereign and covenant-keeping God of Israel, who speaks through His prophet Ezekiel to pronounce judgment and call for repentance.

5. Sword
A symbol of impending judgment and destruction, often used in prophetic literature to signify God's wrath against sin.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Idolatry
Idolatry is not just the worship of physical idols but anything that takes the place of God in our hearts. We must examine our lives for modern-day "high places" that distract us from true worship.

God's Sovereignty and Justice
God is sovereign and just, and He will not tolerate sin indefinitely. His judgments are meant to bring about repentance and restoration.

The Call to Repentance
Just as God called Israel to turn from their high places, He calls us to repent from our sins and return to Him wholeheartedly.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets like Ezekiel were tasked with delivering God's messages, often unpopular, but necessary for the spiritual health of the people. We should be open to receiving correction and guidance from God's Word today.

The Importance of Obedience
Obedience to God's commands is crucial. The Israelites' failure to obey led to severe consequences, reminding us of the importance of aligning our lives with God's will.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day "high places" in our lives that might be competing with our devotion to God?

2. How does understanding God's sovereignty and justice impact the way we view His judgments in the Bible and in our lives today?

3. In what ways can we heed the call to repentance in our personal lives and communities?

4. How can we ensure that we are receptive to God's messages, even when they challenge our current way of living?

5. What steps can we take to cultivate a lifestyle of obedience to God's Word, and how can we encourage others to do the same?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 12:2-3
This passage commands the Israelites to destroy all the high places where the nations worship their gods, highlighting the ongoing struggle against idolatry.

2 Kings 23:5
Describes King Josiah's reforms, where he removed idolatrous priests and destroyed high places, showing a historical precedent for the actions God desires.

Jeremiah 19:3-5
Similar prophetic warnings against idolatry and the consequences of forsaking God, emphasizing the consistent message of judgment for unfaithfulness.