Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, the term "Desire of the Eyes" is notably used in the book of Ezekiel to describe the prophet's wife. This phrase captures the deep affection and emotional connection that Ezekiel had for his spouse, highlighting the profound personal loss he experienced upon her death.Biblical Reference: The primary reference to the "Desire of the Eyes" is found in Ezekiel 24:15-18. In this passage, God speaks to Ezekiel, foretelling the death of his wife and instructing him not to mourn in the customary manner. The Berean Standard Bible renders this passage as follows: "The word of the LORD came to me, saying, 'Son of man, behold, I am about to take away from you the desire of your eyes with a single blow. Yet you must not lament or weep or let your tears flow. Groan quietly; do not observe mourning rites for the dead. Put on your turban and strap your sandals on your feet. Do not cover your mustache or eat the bread of mourners.' So I spoke to the people in the morning, and in the evening my wife died. And the next morning I did as I had been commanded." Theological Significance: The phrase "Desire of the Eyes" underscores the intimate and cherished relationship between Ezekiel and his wife. In a broader theological context, this event serves as a symbolic act, reflecting the impending judgment and loss that the people of Israel would face with the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple, which was the "desire of their eyes" (Ezekiel 24:21). Ezekiel's obedience to God's command not to mourn publicly serves as a powerful prophetic sign to the Israelites. It illustrates the severity of the coming judgment and the necessity of focusing on God's will and purposes, even in the face of personal grief and loss. Cultural and Historical Context: In ancient Israelite culture, mourning rites were an essential part of dealing with death and loss. These rites included loud lamentation, wearing sackcloth, and other expressions of grief. By instructing Ezekiel to refrain from these practices, God was making a profound statement to the people of Israel about the seriousness of their spiritual condition and the impending consequences of their actions. Application: The account of Ezekiel and the "Desire of the Eyes" serves as a poignant reminder of the cost of discipleship and the call to prioritize God's commands above personal desires and emotions. It challenges believers to trust in God's sovereignty and to remain faithful, even when faced with difficult and painful circumstances. This narrative also invites reflection on the nature of love and loss, encouraging believers to cherish their relationships while recognizing the transient nature of earthly life. It calls for a deeper reliance on God, who is the ultimate source of comfort and hope amidst life's trials. Nave's Topical Index Ezekiel 24:16Son of man, behold, I take away from you the desire of your eyes with a stroke: yet neither shall you mourn nor weep, neither shall your tears run down. Nave's Topical Index Library Whether Fear is Appropriately Divided into Filial, Initial ... Thou Shalt not Covet Thy Neighbor's House. Thou Shalt not Covet ... The Life of Mr. James Durham. The Seventh Commandment The Unity of the Divine Being Heaviness through Manifold Temptations Upon Our Lord's SermonOn the Mount Whether Fear is Fittingly Divided into Filial, Initial, Servile ... At the Same Time God Spoke to Abraham, and Promised that his Seed ... The Desire of the Righteous Granted; Resources What should I be looking for in a wife? What does the Bible say about finding a wife? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the duty / role of a pastor's wife? | GotQuestions.org Does a wife have to submit to her husband? | GotQuestions.org Wife: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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