Ezekiel 5:16

When I shall send vpon them the euill arrowes of famine, which shall be for their destruction, and which I will send to destroy you: and I wil increase the famine vpon you, and will breake your staffe of bread. Ezekiel 5:16 (KJV)

Historical Context:

Ezekiel was a prophet who ministered to the exiled Israelites in Babylon during the sixth century BC. The people of Israel had been unfaithful to God and had disobeyed His commandments, resulting in God’s judgment upon them through the destruction of Jerusalem and the exile to Babylon.

Symbolism of Famine:

Famine is often used in the Bible as a symbol of judgment and punishment for disobedience. In these verses, God warns the people of Israel through the prophet Ezekiel that He will send famine as a severe scarcity of food, which would bring about suffering and destruction.

God’s Judgment:

The language used in these verses reflects God’s judgment upon the Israelites for their disobedience. The phrase “which shall be for their destruction” emphasizes the severity of the famine and its purpose in bringing about their downfall. God, in His justice, is using famine as a means to discipline and punish His people for their unfaithfulness.

Intensification of Famine:

The verses go on to say that the famine will increase, suggesting that the initial scarcity mentioned earlier would be intensified. God’s judgment would not be limited to a single wave of famine but would continue to afflict the people, causing even greater suffering and hardship.

Breaking the Staff of Bread:

The phrase “break your staff of bread” is a metaphor for the complete disruption of their food supply. In ancient times, bread was a staple food and a symbol of sustenance. By breaking the staff of bread, God indicates that He will remove their source of provision and sustenance, leading to further devastation and desperation.