Ezekiel 7:13

For the seller shall not return to that which is sold, although they were yet alive: for the vision is touching the whole multitude thereof, which shall not return; neither shall any strengthen himself in the iniquity of his life.

Ezekiel 7:13 (KJV)

Context

Ezekiel prophesied during the Babylonian exile, when God called him to deliver messages of judgment and warning to Israel. This verse is part of a larger oracle describing the final desolation of the land.

Meaning

The opening clause, “For the seller shall not return to that which is sold, although they were yet alive,” describes a situation where the seller will not regain possession of what they have sold, even if they are still alive. Under the Law, a man who sold his possession could normally return to it in the year of jubilee (Leviticus 25:13). Here, that expectation is reversed: the Babylonian judgment would be so final and devastating that the normal economic and legal restoration would not occur. The transactions and possessions that people valued and relied on would ultimately be lost and provide no security or benefit.

The “vision” refers to the prophecies that Ezekiel received from God. The phrase “the vision is touching the whole multitude thereof” indicates that the prophetic decree of judgment applies to the whole community, not just a few individuals. The judgment is irrevocable; it “shall not return” or be turned back.

The final clause, “neither shall any strengthen himself in the iniquity of his life,” teaches that no one can preserve or sustain their life through their own sinfulness. Human strength and resources are powerless against the decree of divine judgment.

Biblical connections

This verse directly connects to the jubilee law in Leviticus 25:13, where the return of property was a sign of God’s restoration. In Ezekiel 7, that restoration is withheld because of the people’s sin. The certainty and totality of God’s judgment on sin, the futility of trusting in material possessions or human effort for security, and the inability of iniquity to provide any lasting strength or deliverance are all underscored here.

Application

Ezekiel’s prophecies, including this verse, highlight God’s impending judgment upon the people of Israel due to their persistent disobedience and idolatry. It serves as a reminder that God holds His people accountable for their actions and expects obedience. The verse suggests that material possessions, which people often place their trust in for security and prosperity, will ultimately prove futile and bring no lasting benefit. It emphasizes the transitory nature of worldly possessions and the importance of seeking God and His righteousness instead of relying on material wealth.

The phrase “neither shall any strengthen himself in the iniquity of his life” highlights the futility of finding strength or support in sinful behavior. It serves as a warning against relying on wickedness or ungodly ways as a means of security or comfort. True strength and security can only be found in a relationship with God and living in accordance with His will.

Reflection

Ezekiel 7:13 underscores the impending judgment of God upon the people of Israel and emphasizes the futility of relying on worldly possessions and sinful ways. It serves as a reminder to seek God, obey His commands, and find strength in Him rather than in the transitory things of this world.