Ezekiel 21:22

At his right hand was the diuination for Ierusalem to appoint captaines, to open the mouth in the slaughter, to lift vp the voice with shouting, to appoint battering-rammes against the gates, to cast a mount and to build a fort. Ezekiel 21:22 (KJV)

Historical Context:

Ezekiel was a prophet who lived during the Babylonian exile of the Israelites. In this passage, he prophesies about the impending judgment on Jerusalem and Judah.

Symbolic Language:

Divination: Refers to the Babylonian practice of using divination to decide their military strategies. This highlights their reliance on such methods rather than divine guidance.

Appoint Captains: Nebuchadnezzar would choose and assign his commanders to lead the attack against Jerusalem.

Open the Mouth in the Slaughter: Indicates the fierce and devastating battle that would take place in Jerusalem, implying the unleashing of violence and death.

Lift up the Voice with Shouting: Suggests the triumphant cries and war chants of the Babylonian soldiers as they approach Jerusalem.

Appoint Battering Rams: Signifies the use of siege equipment like battering rams to breach the city’s gates.

Cast a Mount and Build a Fort: Indicates the construction of siege ramps or mounds to gain access to the city walls and the establishment of fortifications around Jerusalem.

Spiritual Lesson:

This verse highlights the judgment and destruction that God allowed to befall Jerusalem due to the people’s rebellion and idolatry. It serves as a reminder of God’s sovereignty and His ability to use foreign powers as instruments of His judgment. Moreover, this passage emphasizes the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God’s commandments. The impending judgment on Jerusalem was a consequence of the people’s disobedience, and it serves as a warning for us to heed God’s word and live according to His will. Additionally, it reveals the significance of repentance and turning back to God. Throughout the book of Ezekiel, God repeatedly calls His people to repentance, offering them the opportunity to turn away from their sins and receive His mercy. In summary, Ezekiel 21:22 presents a vivid picture of the impending judgment on Jerusalem, reminding believers of God’s sovereignty, the consequences of disobedience, and the vital need for repentance and obedience to God’s commands.