Biblical Context:

The phrase "Prophesy to the Breath" is prominently found in the book of Ezekiel, specifically in Ezekiel 37:9-10. This passage is part of the vision of the Valley of Dry Bones, a powerful prophetic vision given to the prophet Ezekiel during the Babylonian exile. The vision serves as a message of hope and restoration for the people of Israel, who were experiencing despair and a sense of national death due to their captivity.

Scriptural Reference:

Ezekiel 37:9-10 : "Then He said to me, 'Prophesy to the breath, prophesy, son of man, and tell the breath that this is what the Lord GOD says: Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe into these slain, so that they may live!' So I prophesied as He had commanded me, and the breath entered them, and they came to life and stood on their feet—a vast army."

Theological Significance:

1. Symbolism of the Breath:
In the Hebrew language, the word for "breath" is "ruach," which can also mean "spirit" or "wind." This multifaceted term is used throughout the Old Testament to denote the life-giving force of God. In Ezekiel 37, the breath symbolizes the Spirit of God, which has the power to bring life and renewal. The act of prophesying to the breath signifies invoking God's Spirit to bring about transformation and revival.

2. Restoration and Hope:
The vision of the Valley of Dry Bones is a metaphor for the restoration of Israel. The dry bones represent the house of Israel, which felt lifeless and hopeless in exile. By commanding Ezekiel to prophesy to the breath, God demonstrates His sovereign power to restore life and hope to His people. This act is a divine promise that God will revive the nation and bring them back to their land.

3. Role of the Prophet:
Ezekiel's role in this vision underscores the importance of prophetic ministry. The prophet acts as an intermediary between God and His people, delivering messages that can alter the course of history. By obeying God's command to prophesy to the breath, Ezekiel participates in the divine act of creation and restoration, highlighting the power of God's word spoken through His prophets.

4. Foreshadowing of New Testament Themes:
The concept of the Spirit bringing life is echoed in the New Testament, particularly in the teachings of Jesus and the writings of the apostles. In John 3:8, Jesus speaks of the Spirit as the wind that blows where it wishes, drawing a parallel to the life-giving breath in Ezekiel. Additionally, the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (Acts 2) fulfills the promise of God's Spirit bringing new life to His people, forming a new covenant community.

Historical and Cultural Context:

The vision of the Valley of Dry Bones occurs during a time of great turmoil and uncertainty for the Israelites. The Babylonian exile (circa 586 B.C.) was a period when the Jewish people were forcibly removed from their homeland and faced the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem. This historical backdrop amplifies the significance of the vision, as it addresses the deep-seated despair and longing for restoration among the exiled community.

Application for Believers:

For contemporary believers, the command to "Prophesy to the Breath" serves as a reminder of God's power to bring life and renewal in seemingly hopeless situations. It encourages faith in God's promises and His ability to restore and revitalize both individuals and communities. The passage invites believers to seek the presence and work of the Holy Spirit in their lives, trusting in God's transformative power to bring about spiritual revival and growth.