Ezekiel 11:15

“Son of man, thy brethren, even thy brethren, the men of thy kindred, and all the house of Israel wholly, are they unto whom the inhabitants of Jerusalem have said, Get you far from the LORD: unto us is this land given in possession.”

This verse is part of the larger context of the Book of Ezekiel, which contains prophecies and messages from God to the exiled Israelites. In this passage God addresses the prophet Ezekiel with the title “Son of man.” The title is used frequently by God to address Ezekiel throughout the book, emphasizing Ezekiel’s humanity and his role as a representative of the people.

The phrase “thy brethren, even thy brethren, the men of thy kindred, and all the house of Israel” refers to the exiled Israelites, Ezekiel’s fellow countrymen and relatives, highlighting their shared heritage and common ancestry. The verse records the hostile words of the inhabitants of Jerusalem: “Get you far from the LORD: unto us is this land given in possession.” Those who remained in Jerusalem during the exile had become corrupt and had strayed from God’s ways. They rejected the exiles, believing that the land was exclusively given to them and that the exiles had no rightful claim to it. This reveals the division and hostility between the exiled Israelites and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and it demonstrates the pride and arrogance of those in Jerusalem who thought they were the sole recipients of God’s favour.

While this verse records the hostile claim, the surrounding chapters move from pronouncing judgment on Israel’s leaders to offering hope for renewal. The broader context of Ezekiel shows God’s promise to gather the exiles, give them a new heart, and bring them back to their land. The chapter transitions from condemnation to the assurance of future restoration, underscoring the promise of redemption and the hope that God will act mercifully toward His people, regardless of their present circumstances. Overall, Ezekiel 11:15 teaches about the dangers of pride, exclusivity, and spiritual arrogance, while the larger passage reminds believers that God’s grace and favour extend to all who seek Him with a humble heart.