The command to scatter coals over the city is a significant event found in the book of Ezekiel, specifically in Ezekiel 10:2. This command is part of a larger vision given to the prophet Ezekiel, which reveals the impending judgment upon Jerusalem due to the people's persistent idolatry and rebellion against God.

Biblical Context

In Ezekiel 10, the prophet is given a vision of the glory of the LORD departing from the temple in Jerusalem. This vision is a continuation of the divine revelations that began in Ezekiel 8, where Ezekiel is shown the abominations being committed in the temple. The vision in chapter 10 is both a symbolic and literal representation of God's judgment and the removal of His presence from the city.

The Vision of the Cherubim and the Glory of the LORD

Ezekiel 10 describes the appearance of the cherubim, angelic beings associated with the presence and glory of God. The vision includes a detailed description of the cherubim and the wheels beside them, which are full of eyes and move in perfect harmony with the Spirit. The glory of the LORD is depicted as being above the cherubim, signifying His divine authority and holiness.

The Command to Scatter Coals

In Ezekiel 10:2, the command is given to a man clothed in linen, who is instructed to take coals from between the cherubim and scatter them over the city. The Berean Standard Bible states: "And He spoke to the man clothed in linen, 'Go in among the wheels beneath the cherubim. Fill your hands with coals of fire from among the cherubim and scatter them over the city.' And as I watched, he went in."

This act of scattering coals is symbolic of God's judgment and purification. In the ancient Near Eastern context, fire often represented divine judgment, purification, and the presence of God. The coals, taken from the presence of God, signify the impending destruction and cleansing of Jerusalem due to its sinfulness.

Theological Significance

The command to scatter coals over the city underscores the seriousness of sin and the holiness of God. It serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commandments and engaging in idolatry. The vision highlights the justice of God in dealing with sin, as well as His desire for repentance and restoration.

The departure of the glory of the LORD from the temple signifies the withdrawal of God's protective presence, leaving the city vulnerable to destruction. This event foreshadows the eventual fall of Jerusalem to the Babylonians in 586 BC, a historical fulfillment of the prophetic vision.

Application for Believers

For believers, the command to scatter coals over the city serves as a call to examine one's own life in light of God's holiness and righteousness. It is a reminder of the importance of faithfulness to God's Word and the need for repentance and spiritual renewal. The vision encourages believers to seek God's presence and to live in obedience to His commands, recognizing that true security and peace are found in Him alone.