Ezekiel 21:17
“I will also smite mine hands together, and I will cause my fury to rest: I the LORD have said it.”
Context:The book of Ezekiel is a prophetic book in the Old Testament, and it contains visions and messages from God to the exiled Israelites in Babylon. The prophecies in Ezekiel speak about God’s judgment, the consequences of Israel’s disobedience, and the promise of restoration.
Symbolism of God smiting His hands together:In this verse, God says He will smite His hands together. This action symbolises a decisive and firm judgment. It is an expression of God’s anger and fury against the people of Judah and Jerusalem for their persistent disobedience and idolatry. The act of smiting hands together also indicates the certainty and finality of God’s judgment.
God’s fury and rest:God declares that He will cause His fury to rest. This means that God’s wrath will be unleashed upon the people, and they will experience the full weight of His judgment. God’s anger will not subside until justice is served and His purposes are accomplished.
God’s sovereignty and declaration:The verse concludes with the declaration that it is the Lord who has spoken these words. This emphasises the authority and power of God. He alone has the ability to bring about the judgments He has pronounced, and His word is certain and unchanging.
Application:The verse reminds us of the righteous and just nature of God. It warns us that disobedience and rebellion against God’s commands have consequences. However, it also serves as a reminder that God’s judgments are not carried out without warning. Throughout the book of Ezekiel, God repeatedly calls His people to repentance and offers the opportunity for them to turn back to Him. This verse serves as a reminder of the urgency to heed God’s warnings and respond to His call for repentance.
- Overall:Ezekiel 21:17 highlights the severity of God’s judgment and His unwavering commitment to uphold justice. It serves as a call for repentance and a reminder of the consequences of disobedience.
