Old Testament

Ezekiel 11:1

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this moment, the Spirit of God takes Ezekiel and transports him to the east gate of the temple.

Author: Ezekiel the prophet
Written: Around 590 BC
Genre: Prophecy
Original Audience: Exiled Israelites in Babylon

CBTClear Bible Translation

Then the Spirit lifted me up and carried me to the east gate of the LORD's house — the one facing east. There at the entrance of the gate stood 25 men. Among them I recognized Jaazaniah son of Azur and Pelatiah son of Benaiah, both leaders of the people.

KJVKing James Version

Moreover the spirit lifted me up, and brought me unto the east gate of the LORD’s house, which looketh eastward: and behold at the door of the gate five and twenty men; among whom I saw Jaazaniah the son of Azur, and Pelatiah the son of Benaiah, princes of the people.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this moment, the Spirit of God takes Ezekiel and transports him to the east gate of the temple. This gate is significant, as it faces the rising sun, symbolizing new beginnings and hope. At the entrance, Ezekiel sees 25 men, including two notable leaders, Jaazaniah and Pelatiah. These men represent the people of Jerusalem, and their presence indicates a gathering of influential figures. The scene sets the stage for a deeper revelation about the state of the people and their leadership. Ezekiel's vision emphasizes the importance of spiritual insight and the need for guidance in times of uncertainty. It reminds us that God is aware of our leaders and their actions, and He is ready to address the issues at hand. This moment is not just about a physical location; it’s about the spiritual condition of the community and the call for accountability among its leaders. Through this vision, we see the connection between divine guidance and human responsibility, urging us to reflect on our own leadership roles. Explore related discernment.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Ezekiel 11:1 to your life

Consider the leaders in your life and community. Are they guiding you toward positive change? Reflect on your own role as a leader, whether at work, home, or in your social circles. Strive to embody integrity and responsibility in your actions, fostering a supportive environment for others. Your influence matters more than you think, so lead with purpose and care.

Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Ezekiel 11:1 mean?

Ezekiel 11:1 describes a vision where the Spirit of God transports Ezekiel to the east gate of the temple, where he sees 25 men, including leaders Jaazaniah and Pelatiah. This scene highlights the significance of leadership and the spiritual state of the people in Jerusalem.

What is the significance of the east gate in Ezekiel 11:1?

The east gate faces the rising sun, symbolizing new beginnings and hope. Its mention in Ezekiel 11:1 emphasizes the potential for renewal and the need for spiritual insight among the leaders and the community.

Who are Jaazaniah and Pelatiah in Ezekiel 11:1?

Jaazaniah son of Azur and Pelatiah son of Benaiah are identified as leaders among the 25 men at the east gate. Their presence indicates the involvement of influential figures in the community, setting the stage for discussions about their leadership and accountability.

What does the gathering of 25 men in Ezekiel 11:1 represent?

The gathering of 25 men at the east gate represents a collective of influential leaders in Jerusalem. Their presence suggests a moment of significance for the community, highlighting the importance of leadership and the need for spiritual guidance.

Book Summary

The Book of Ezekiel

Ezekiel 1: Visions of God

The word of the LORD comes to Ezekiel the priest, the son of Buzi, by the river Chebar in the land of the Chaldeans. He sees visions of God as the heavens open. A great cloud comes from the north with a fire flashing continually and brightness around it, and from the midst appears something like glowing metal. From the fire emerge four living creatures, each with the likeness of a man. Each has four faces and four wings, and their legs are straight with feet like a calf's foot, shining like polished brass. Their faces are those of a man, a lion, an ox, and an eagle, and their wings are joined one to another as they move straight forward without turning.

Beside each living creature appears a wheel on the earth, and the wheels have the appearance of a wheel within a wheel. Their rims are high and full of eyes all around. When the living creatures move, the wheels move with them, and the spirit of the living creature is in the wheels. Above the heads of the living creatures is the likeness of a firmament like crystal, and above the firmament is the likeness of a throne like a sapphire stone. Upon the throne is the likeness of a man with brightness like fire and a rainbow around him. Ezekiel sees the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD, and when he sees it, he falls upon his face and hears a voice speaking. Ezekiel 2: Son of Man, Stand Upon Your Feet The voice says to him, "Son of man, stand upon your feet, and I will speak unto you." The Spirit enters him and sets him on his feet, and the LORD speaks to him. The LORD says he sends him to the children of Israel, a rebellious nation that has transgressed against Him. Their fathers have rebelled, and they continue in stubbornness and impudence. Ezekiel is sent to speak the LORD's words to them whether they hear or refuse to hear. The LORD tells him they shall know that a prophet has been among them. The LORD warns him not to fear them or their words, though they are like briers and thorns and though he dwells among scorpions. He is not to be afraid of their faces. He must speak the LORD's words to them whether they listen or refuse, for they are most rebellious. The LORD commands him not to be rebellious like that rebellious house. He is told to open his mouth and eat what the LORD gives him. He sees a hand with a scroll written inside and outside with lamentations, mourning, and woe.

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