Ezekiel 39:11

And it shall come to pass in that day, that I will give unto Gog a place there of graves in Israel, the valley of the passengers on the east of the sea: and it shall stop the noses of the passengers: and there shall they bury Gog and all his multitude: and they shall call it The valley of Hamon–gog.

Ezekiel 39:11 (KJV)

Context

In Ezekiel 38 and 39, God reveals to Ezekiel the impending invasion of Israel by a coalition of nations led by a figure called Gog. Gog is described as the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal, and his forces come against Israel to plunder and conquer. However, God intervenes and brings about their defeat and destruction.

Meaning

“And it shall come to pass in that day” refers to the future time when God’s judgment upon Gog and his armies will occur. It points to a specific period of divine intervention.

“I will give unto Gog a place there of graves in Israel, the valley of the passengers on the east of the sea” speaks of the burial of Gog and his multitude in a designated place in Israel. The location is described as a valley east of the Dead Sea, a place where travelers passed through. The exact modern identification of this site is uncertain.

“And it shall stop the noses of the passengers” indicates that the odor from the burial site will be so overwhelming that travelers will be compelled to cover their noses, signifying the severity of the judgment. Their defeat will cause the people to pause and take notice.

“And there shall they bury Gog and all his multitude” and they shall call it The valley of Hamongog. “Hamon-gog” means “the multitude of Gog.” The burial place of Gog and all his multitude will be named ‘the valley of Hamongog.’ This name serves as a reminder of the great multitude that once threatened Israel but was ultimately defeated and brought to an end by God’s intervention.

Biblical connections

The burial site is so large that it blocks the way of those passing through, emphasizing the vast number of the dead. The name “Hamon-gog” signifies the multitude of Gog, underscoring the scale of the defeat. The irony is that Gog, who intended to take possession of the land, receives only a burial place in it. The subsequent verses indicate that the house of Israel will bury them for seven months to cleanse the land (Ezekiel 39:12).

Application

Ezekiel 39:11 portrays the utter defeat and destruction of Gog and his armies, highlighting the finality and severity of God’s judgment upon those who rise against His people. It serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness to His promises and His ability to bring about justice in the face of overwhelming opposition. The event demonstrates God’s sovereignty over the nations and His faithfulness to protect and vindicate Israel.

Reflection

This verse assures believers that God sees the threats against His people and will act decisively. The valley of Hamon-gog stands as a lasting witness that no force opposing God’s purposes will ultimately prevail.