Old Testament
Ezekiel 17:22
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, God is speaking about a significant act of renewal and hope.
- Author
- Ezekiel the prophet
- Written
- Around 590 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
This is what the Lord GOD says: 'I will take a shoot from the top of the tall cedar and plant it. I will break off a tender twig from its highest branches and plant it on a high and prominent mountain.
Thus saith the Lord GOD; I will also take of the highest branch of the high cedar, and will set it; I will crop off from the top of his young twigs a tender one, and will plant it upon an high mountain and eminent:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, God is speaking about a significant act of renewal and hope. He describes taking a young shoot from a tall cedar tree, which symbolizes strength and stability. This shoot represents a new beginning, something fresh and alive. By planting it on a high mountain, God indicates that this new growth will be prominent and visible to all. It signifies His intention to establish something important that will flourish. The cedar tree is known for its durability, and by choosing a tender twig, God emphasizes the potential for growth and transformation. This act is not just about planting a tree; it’s about God's promise to bring forth new life and hope in unexpected places. It reminds us that even from humble beginnings, great things can emerge under God's care and guidance. This message encourages us to trust in God's plans, knowing that He can create beauty and strength from what seems small or insignificant. It’s a powerful reminder of renewal and the potential for greatness.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Ezekiel 17:22 to your life
Consider areas in your life where you feel small or insignificant. Remember that God can bring about great change from humble beginnings. Trust in His ability to cultivate growth and renewal in your life, no matter how challenging your circumstances may seem. Embrace the potential for new beginnings with faith and hope. Seek opportunities for growth in your daily life and relationships, knowing that God is at work within you and around you.
Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ezekiel 17:22 mean in simple terms?
Ezekiel 17:22 speaks of God's promise to bring renewal and hope. He uses the imagery of taking a young shoot from a tall cedar tree, symbolizing strength and stability. By planting this shoot on a high mountain, God indicates that this new growth will be significant and visible. This verse emphasizes that from humble beginnings, great things can emerge under God's care, reminding us of His ability to create beauty and transformation in our lives.
How can I apply Ezekiel 17:22 to my life?
You can apply Ezekiel 17:22 by recognizing areas in your life where you feel small or insignificant. This verse encourages you to trust that God can bring about significant change from humble beginnings. Embrace new opportunities for growth and renewal, and have faith that God is working in your life, even in challenging circumstances. Look for ways to cultivate hope and transformation in your daily activities and relationships.
What is the significance of the cedar tree in Ezekiel 17:22?
The cedar tree in Ezekiel 17:22 symbolizes strength, durability, and stability. By choosing a young shoot from this strong tree, God illustrates His intention to establish something significant and lasting. The cedar's reputation for resilience reflects God's promise to bring forth new life and hope, even from seemingly small or humble beginnings. This imagery reassures us of God's power to create lasting change.
What themes are present in Ezekiel 17:22?
Ezekiel 17:22 encompasses several key themes, including renewal, hope, growth, transformation, and promise. It highlights God's ability to bring forth new beginnings and significant change from humble origins. The verse serves as a reminder that even in difficult times, God is at work, cultivating potential and encouraging us to trust in His plans for our lives.

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.
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