Then I heard Him call out in a loud voice
This phrase indicates a divine communication, emphasizing the authority and urgency of the message. The "loud voice" signifies the importance and seriousness of the command. In biblical context, God often speaks in a loud voice to convey judgment or significant revelation (e.g., Exodus 19:19, Revelation 1:10). The prophet Ezekiel is receiving a vision, and his role as a watchman (Ezekiel 3:17) is underscored by his ability to hear and relay God's messages.

saying, “Draw near, O executioners of the city
The "executioners of the city" are likely angelic beings tasked with carrying out divine judgment. This reflects the biblical theme of God using agents, both human and supernatural, to execute His will (e.g., Genesis 19:13, 2 Samuel 24:16). The city in question is Jerusalem, which is facing judgment due to its idolatry and rebellion against God (Ezekiel 8). The call to "draw near" indicates the imminence of this judgment.

each with a weapon of destruction in hand.”
The "weapon of destruction" symbolizes the impending judgment and the severity of the punishment to be inflicted. In the historical context, this reflects the Babylonian siege and destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BC, a fulfillment of prophetic warnings (2 Kings 25:8-10). Theologically, it underscores the holiness and justice of God, who cannot tolerate sin indefinitely. This imagery also connects to the broader biblical narrative of divine retribution and the ultimate judgment at the end of the age (Revelation 19:15).

And I saw six men coming from the direction of the Upper Gate, which faces north
The vision of Ezekiel here is set in the context of divine judgment. The "six men" are often interpreted as angelic beings or agents of God's judgment. The "Upper Gate" likely refers to a gate in the temple complex in Jerusalem, emphasizing the sacredness of the location. The direction "north" is significant as it was often associated with the origin of invaders and judgment (Jeremiah 1:14). Historically, the Babylonians, who were instruments of God's judgment on Judah, came from the north.

each with a weapon of slaughter in his hand
The "weapon of slaughter" symbolizes the impending judgment and destruction. This imagery is consistent with other prophetic literature where God uses agents to execute His judgment (Isaiah 10:5-6). The presence of weapons underscores the seriousness and inevitability of the divine decree against Jerusalem due to its idolatry and sin.

With them was another man clothed in linen who had a writing kit at his side
The "man clothed in linen" is often seen as a figure of purity and holiness, possibly an angel or a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ. Linen garments were worn by priests (Exodus 28:39-42), indicating a role of intercession or mediation. The "writing kit" suggests a role of recording or marking, reminiscent of the Passover where the blood marked the houses of the faithful (Exodus 12:7). This figure's task is to mark those who grieve over the city's sins, sparing them from judgment.

And they came in and stood beside the bronze altar
The "bronze altar" was located in the temple courtyard and used for sacrifices (Exodus 27:1-8). Its mention here highlights the connection between sacrifice, atonement, and judgment. The altar's presence in the vision underscores the seriousness of the people's failure to uphold the covenant, as sacrifices were meant to maintain the relationship between God and Israel. The standing beside the altar may symbolize the readiness to execute judgment, as the altar was a place of both atonement and divine justice.

Then the glory of the God of Israel rose from above the cherubim
This phrase refers to the Shekinah glory, the visible manifestation of God's presence, which was traditionally associated with the Ark of the Covenant in the Holy of Holies. The cherubim are angelic beings that are often depicted as guardians of sacred spaces, such as the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:24) and the Ark itself (Exodus 25:18-22). The movement of God's glory signifies a significant shift, indicating divine displeasure and impending judgment. This event foreshadows the departure of God's presence from the temple, a theme that is further developed in Ezekiel 10.

where it had been
This indicates the previous resting place of God's glory, emphasizing the stability and permanence that was expected of God's presence among His people. The Holy of Holies was the most sacred part of the temple, symbolizing God's covenant relationship with Israel. The departure from this place suggests a breach in that relationship due to the people's idolatry and sin.

and moved to the threshold of the temple
The threshold represents a transitional space, symbolizing the boundary between the sacred and the profane. God's movement to the threshold suggests a readiness to leave the temple entirely, highlighting the seriousness of Israel's spiritual condition. This movement is a precursor to the eventual destruction of the temple by the Babylonians in 586 BC, as prophesied by Ezekiel and other prophets.

And He called to the man clothed in linen
The man clothed in linen is often interpreted as an angelic figure or a priestly representative, given the linen garments associated with priestly duties (Leviticus 16:4). Linen signifies purity and holiness, appropriate for a divine messenger tasked with executing God's judgment. This figure is reminiscent of the angelic beings in Daniel 10:5 and Revelation 15:6, who also wear linen.

who had the writing kit at his side
The writing kit indicates a role of recording or marking, suggesting a task of documentation or distinction. In the context of Ezekiel 9, this man is instructed to mark the foreheads of those who lament over the abominations in Jerusalem, signifying divine protection amidst judgment. This act parallels the sealing of the 144,000 in Revelation 7:3-4, where God's faithful are marked for preservation. The writing kit underscores the theme of divine justice and mercy, as God distinguishes between the righteous and the wicked.

Go throughout the city of Jerusalem,
This command is given to a divine messenger, indicating a specific action to be taken within Jerusalem, the central city of Israel and the location of the Temple. Jerusalem holds significant religious and historical importance as the spiritual heart of the Jewish people. The city is often depicted as a place of both divine presence and judgment. The context here is a vision of impending judgment due to widespread sin and idolatry.

said the LORD,
The speaker is the LORD, emphasizing divine authority and the seriousness of the command. This phrase underscores that the actions to follow are not arbitrary but are directed by God Himself. It reflects the biblical theme of God’s sovereignty and His active role in the affairs of humanity, particularly in matters of judgment and redemption.

and put a mark on the foreheads
The act of marking signifies protection and identification. In biblical times, a mark could denote ownership or divine favor. This mark serves as a sign of exemption from the coming judgment, similar to the blood on the doorposts during the Passover in Exodus 12. It also prefigures the sealing of the 144,000 in Revelation 7, where God’s servants are marked for protection.

of the men sighing and groaning
These individuals are characterized by their response to the sin around them. Their sighing and groaning indicate a deep spiritual distress and a rejection of the abominations occurring in Jerusalem. This reflects a remnant theology, where a faithful few remain true to God amidst widespread apostasy. Their reaction is akin to Lot’s distress in Sodom (2 Peter 2:7-8).

over all the abominations committed there.
The abominations refer to the idolatry and moral corruption prevalent in Jerusalem at the time. These acts are detestable to God and are the reason for the impending judgment. The term "abominations" is often used in the Old Testament to describe practices that are particularly offensive to God, such as idol worship and moral depravity. This highlights the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance.

And as I listened
This phrase indicates the prophet Ezekiel's attentive posture, emphasizing the importance of hearing God's word. In biblical context, listening is often associated with obedience and understanding (Deuteronomy 6:4). Ezekiel's role as a prophet required him to be a conduit for God's messages to the people of Israel.

He said to the others
The "others" refers to the angelic executioners in the vision, highlighting the divine authority and judgment being executed. This reflects the biblical theme of God using His messengers to carry out His will, as seen in other instances like the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19).

Follow him through the city
The city is Jerusalem, the center of Jewish worship and identity. This phrase underscores the impending judgment on Jerusalem due to its idolatry and sin. The act of following signifies a deliberate and thorough execution of God's command, ensuring that the judgment is comprehensive.

and start killing
This harsh command reflects the severity of God's judgment against sin. It serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of disobedience and idolatry. Theologically, it points to the holiness of God and His intolerance of sin, a theme consistent throughout Scripture (Romans 6:23).

do not show pity or spare anyone!
This phrase emphasizes the totality and impartiality of divine judgment. It reflects the seriousness of the people's sins and the necessity of justice. In a broader biblical context, it serves as a warning of the final judgment, where God's justice will be fully realized (Revelation 20:11-15). The lack of pity also contrasts with the mercy offered through Christ, who provides a way of escape from judgment for those who believe (John 3:16).

Slaughter the old men, the young men and maidens, the women and children;
This phrase indicates a comprehensive judgment without discrimination based on age or gender. In the context of Ezekiel, this judgment is a divine response to the pervasive idolatry and sin in Jerusalem. The severity of the judgment reflects the seriousness of the people's rebellion against God. Historically, such judgments were not uncommon in the ancient Near East, where entire populations could be subject to conquest and destruction. This also echoes the judgment seen in the flood narrative (Genesis 6-9) and the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19), where entire communities faced divine wrath due to their sinfulness.

but do not go near anyone who has the mark.
The mark serves as a sign of divine protection, reminiscent of the blood on the doorposts during the Passover in Egypt (Exodus 12:7, 13). This mark distinguishes those who grieve over the abominations committed in the city, showing a remnant faithful to God amidst widespread apostasy. It prefigures the sealing of the 144,000 in Revelation 7:3-4, where God's servants are marked for protection during tribulation. This concept of marking for protection underscores God's justice and mercy, ensuring that the righteous are spared even in times of widespread judgment.

Now begin at My sanctuary.”
Judgment starting at the sanctuary highlights the principle that God's house and His people are held to a higher standard (1 Peter 4:17). The temple, meant to be a place of worship and holiness, had become defiled by idolatry and corruption. This reflects the broader biblical theme that those closest to God, who have received His revelation and blessings, are accountable for their response to Him. The sanctuary's defilement necessitated a cleansing, similar to Jesus' cleansing of the temple (Matthew 21:12-13), emphasizing the need for purity in worship.

So they began with the elders who were before the temple.
The elders, as leaders and representatives of the people, were held accountable first. Their position before the temple signifies their role in leading the community in worship and governance. Their judgment underscores the biblical principle that leaders bear greater responsibility (James 3:1). This also serves as a warning to spiritual leaders to maintain integrity and faithfulness, as their influence can lead others either toward or away from God. The elders' judgment is a sobering reminder of the consequences of leading others into sin.

Then He told them
This phrase indicates a direct command from God, highlighting His authority and the seriousness of the situation. In the context of Ezekiel, God is speaking to the executioners, often interpreted as angelic beings or agents of divine judgment. This reflects the biblical theme of God’s sovereignty and His right to judge sin.

“Defile the temple
The temple, considered the holiest place in Israel, was the center of worship and God's dwelling among His people. To defile it signifies a profound judgment, as the temple was meant to be pure and sacred. This act symbolizes the extent of Israel's sin and the resulting separation from God. Historically, the defilement of sacred spaces was a sign of divine abandonment, as seen in the destruction of the temple by the Babylonians.

and fill the courts with the slain.
The courts of the temple were areas where people gathered for worship and sacrifices. Filling them with the slain indicates a complete reversal of their intended purpose, turning a place of life and worship into one of death and judgment. This imagery underscores the severity of Israel's idolatry and moral corruption, which led to such drastic divine action.

Go forth!”
This command to "go forth" emphasizes the immediacy and inevitability of the judgment. It reflects the urgency of God's decree and the swift execution of His will. The phrase also connects to the broader biblical narrative of God sending His messengers to carry out His purposes, whether in judgment or salvation.

So they went out and began killing throughout the city.
This action represents the fulfillment of God's judgment on Jerusalem, a city that had turned away from Him. The historical context is the impending Babylonian invasion, which would lead to the city's destruction. This event serves as a warning of the consequences of persistent sin and rebellion against God. It also foreshadows the ultimate judgment at the end of times, as described in Revelation, where God will judge the world in righteousness.

While they were killing, I was left alone.
Ezekiel witnesses the execution of divine judgment upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem. This scene is part of a vision where God commands the executioners to slay those who do not bear His mark of protection. The phrase highlights Ezekiel's role as a prophet, set apart to observe and convey God's message. The concept of being "left alone" underscores the isolation often experienced by prophets, who are called to witness and communicate God's will, even when it involves severe judgment. This moment reflects the seriousness of divine justice and the separation between the righteous and the wicked, reminiscent of the Passover in Exodus 12, where those marked by the blood of the lamb were spared.

And I fell facedown and cried out,
Ezekiel's response of falling facedown is a common biblical expression of humility and reverence in the presence of God. It signifies submission and the recognition of God's supreme authority. This posture is seen in other biblical figures, such as Abraham (Genesis 17:3) and Daniel (Daniel 10:9), who also fell facedown in moments of divine encounter. Ezekiel's cry is an intercessory plea, reflecting the prophet's deep concern for his people and his role as a mediator between God and Israel.

“Oh, Lord GOD, when You pour out Your wrath on Jerusalem,
The invocation "Oh, Lord GOD" is a plea to Yahweh, acknowledging His sovereignty and justice. The pouring out of wrath signifies God's righteous anger against sin and idolatry, a recurring theme in the prophetic literature. Jerusalem, the city chosen by God, had become corrupt, and this judgment is a fulfillment of the warnings given through the prophets. The imagery of pouring out wrath is also seen in Revelation 16, where God's wrath is depicted as being poured out in the form of plagues, emphasizing the completeness and inevitability of divine judgment.

will You destroy the entire remnant of Israel?”
Ezekiel's question reveals his concern for the survival of a faithful remnant within Israel. The concept of a remnant is significant throughout Scripture, representing those who remain faithful to God despite widespread apostasy. This remnant theme is seen in Isaiah 10:20-22 and Romans 11:5, where God preserves a faithful group for His purposes. Ezekiel's intercession reflects the tension between God's justice and mercy, highlighting the hope that even in judgment, God will preserve a people for Himself. This remnant ultimately points to the fulfillment of God's promises through Jesus Christ, who embodies the faithful remnant and brings salvation to all who believe.

He replied, “The iniquity of the house of Israel and Judah is exceedingly great.
This phrase highlights the severe moral and spiritual corruption of both Israel and Judah. Historically, this period was marked by idolatry, social injustice, and a departure from the covenant with God. The division between Israel (the northern kingdom) and Judah (the southern kingdom) had led to separate paths of disobedience, yet both were guilty of significant transgressions. This echoes the warnings of earlier prophets like Isaiah and Jeremiah, who also condemned the nations for their sins. The term "exceedingly great" underscores the depth and breadth of their rebellion against God.

The land is full of bloodshed,
This indicates rampant violence and injustice throughout the land. Bloodshed often refers to murder and the shedding of innocent blood, which was strictly condemned in the Mosaic Law. This reflects a society that has abandoned God's commandments, leading to chaos and moral decay. The historical context includes the political instability and frequent conflicts that plagued the region, contributing to a culture of violence. This situation is reminiscent of the pre-flood world described in Genesis 6:11, where the earth was filled with violence.

and the city is full of perversity.
The city, likely referring to Jerusalem, is described as being filled with moral corruption and depravity. Perversity here can include sexual immorality, idolatry, and other forms of ethical corruption. Jerusalem, the city meant to be a beacon of God's presence and holiness, had become a center of sin. This mirrors the situation in Sodom and Gomorrah, where pervasive wickedness led to divine judgment. The prophets often used the imagery of a corrupt city to symbolize the spiritual state of the people.

For they say, ‘The LORD has forsaken the land;
This reflects a common belief among the people that God had abandoned them, possibly due to the prolonged period of suffering and foreign oppression. This sentiment reveals a lack of faith and understanding of God's covenant promises. It also shows a misunderstanding of the nature of God's discipline, which is meant to lead to repentance rather than indicate abandonment. This echoes the lament in Psalm 22:1, where the psalmist feels forsaken but ultimately trusts in God's deliverance.

the LORD does not see.’”
This phrase indicates a belief that God is either unaware of or indifferent to their actions. It suggests a theological misunderstanding of God's omniscience and justice. This attitude is reminiscent of the scoffers in Psalm 10:11, who say, "He will never see it." Such a belief leads to moral recklessness, as people act without fear of divine retribution. Theologically, this challenges the understanding of God's nature as all-seeing and all-knowing, as affirmed in Proverbs 15:3, which states that the eyes of the LORD are everywhere, observing the wicked and the good.

But as for Me,
This phrase indicates a direct statement from God, emphasizing His personal involvement and authority in the matter. It sets the tone for divine judgment, highlighting God's active role in the unfolding events. In the context of Ezekiel, God is speaking through the prophet to convey His message to the people of Israel.

I will not look on them with pity,
This reflects God's decision to withhold compassion from those who have persistently rebelled against Him. In the broader biblical narrative, God is often portrayed as merciful and compassionate, but here, His justice takes precedence due to the people's continuous idolatry and sin. This echoes the warnings given in Deuteronomy 28 about the consequences of disobedience.

nor will I spare them.
The phrase underscores the certainty and severity of the impending judgment. Historically, this is set during the time of the Babylonian siege of Jerusalem, a period marked by intense suffering and destruction. The lack of sparing indicates that the judgment is comprehensive and unavoidable, aligning with the prophetic warnings given by other prophets like Jeremiah.

I will bring their deeds down upon their own heads.”
This statement highlights the principle of retributive justice, where individuals face the consequences of their actions. It is a common theme in the Old Testament, seen in passages like Proverbs 1:31 and Galatians 6:7, which speak to the idea of reaping what one sows. Theologically, it serves as a reminder of God's holiness and the seriousness of sin, while also pointing to the need for repentance and redemption, ultimately fulfilled in the New Testament through Jesus Christ.

Then the man clothed in linen
The man clothed in linen is often interpreted as an angelic figure or a divine messenger. Linen garments were typically worn by priests, symbolizing purity and holiness (Exodus 28:39-42). This attire signifies the sacred nature of his mission. In the broader context of Ezekiel, this figure represents God's authority and the execution of His will.

with the writing kit at his side
The writing kit indicates the role of this figure as a recorder or scribe, tasked with marking those who lament over the abominations in Jerusalem (Ezekiel 9:4). Writing kits were common in ancient Near Eastern cultures, used by scribes to document important information. This imagery underscores the precision and intentionality of God's judgment.

reported back
The act of reporting back signifies accountability and completion of a divine task. It reflects the heavenly order and obedience to God's commands. This phrase emphasizes the thoroughness and reliability of the divine messenger in executing God's will.

“I have done as You commanded.”
This statement highlights the fulfillment of God's directive, showcasing the obedience and faithfulness of the divine messenger. It echoes the theme of divine judgment and mercy, as those marked were spared from destruction. This obedience can be seen as a type of Christ, who perfectly fulfilled the Father's will (John 6:38). The completion of the task also foreshadows the ultimate fulfillment of God's plans and purposes in history.