The Vision of Ezekiel is a profound and complex revelation given to the prophet Ezekiel, as recorded in the Book of Ezekiel, chapters 1, 8-11, and 37. These visions are pivotal in understanding the prophetic messages concerning the judgment and restoration of Israel, the holiness of God, and the future hope for God's people.

The Inaugural Vision (Ezekiel 1)

Ezekiel's first vision occurs by the Kebar River among the exiles in Babylon. In this vision, Ezekiel sees a stormy wind coming from the north, a great cloud with flashing fire, and a brilliant light surrounding it. Within the cloud, he observes four living creatures, each with four faces and four wings. The faces are those of a man, a lion, an ox, and an eagle, symbolizing the fullness of creation and the attributes of God—wisdom, majesty, strength, and swiftness.

The creatures move in unison, directed by the Spirit, and beside each is a wheel intersecting a wheel, full of eyes, signifying divine omniscience and the ability to move in any direction without turning. Above the creatures is a firmament, and above it, a throne of sapphire, upon which sits a figure with the appearance of a man, radiating the glory of God. This vision emphasizes God's sovereignty, holiness, and the divine presence among the exiles.

The Vision of Abominations and Departure of Glory (Ezekiel 8-11)

In chapters 8 through 11, Ezekiel is transported in a vision to Jerusalem, where he witnesses the abominations committed in the temple. He sees idol worship, elders offering incense to images, and women weeping for Tammuz, highlighting the spiritual corruption of Israel. The vision reveals the departure of the glory of the LORD from the temple, symbolizing God's judgment and the impending destruction of Jerusalem.

Ezekiel sees the glory of the LORD move from the cherubim to the threshold of the temple, then to the east gate, and finally departing the city. This departure signifies the withdrawal of God's protective presence due to the people's persistent idolatry and rebellion.

The Vision of the Valley of Dry Bones (Ezekiel 37)

In one of the most famous visions, Ezekiel is brought to a valley filled with dry bones, representing the house of Israel in exile, spiritually dead and without hope. God commands Ezekiel to prophesy to the bones, and as he does, they come together, flesh and skin cover them, and breath enters them, bringing them to life. This vision symbolizes the restoration and revival of Israel, both physically and spiritually.

The LORD declares, "I will put My Spirit in you and you will live, and I will settle you in your own land" (Ezekiel 37:14). This promise points to the future hope of Israel's return from exile and the establishment of a new covenant relationship with God, marked by the indwelling of His Spirit.

Theological Significance

Ezekiel's visions are rich in theological significance, illustrating God's holiness, justice, and mercy. They underscore the consequences of sin and idolatry, yet also offer hope for redemption and restoration. The visions reveal God's ultimate plan to dwell among His people, cleanse them from their iniquities, and establish a renewed covenant through the outpouring of His Spirit. These themes resonate with the broader biblical narrative of salvation and the coming of the Messiah, who fulfills God's promises to Israel and extends them to all nations.