Old Testament
Ezekiel 21:10
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
It is sharpened for a great slaughter, polished to shine. Should we then rejoice? It despises the rod of my son, as it does every tree.
Compare translations
It is sharpened to make a sore slaughter; it is furbished that it may glitter: should we then make mirth? it contemneth the rod of my son, as every tree.
What Ezekiel 21:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse uses the imagery of a sword that is sharpened and polished, indicating its readiness for destruction. The sword symbolizes judgment and the seriousness of the situation. The question posed challenges the idea of celebrating in the face of impending doom. It highlights a stark reality: the sword does not discriminate, cutting down even those close to us, represented by 'the rod of my son.' This suggests that the consequences of actions affect everyone, regardless of their status or relationship. The verse serves as a reminder that we should not take lightly the seriousness of judgment and the need for reflection. Instead of rejoicing, we should consider the weight of our choices and their impact on our lives and those around us. The polished sword is a call to awareness, urging us to recognize the gravity of our circumstances and the need for change before it’s too late. It’s a moment to pause and reflect on the path we are on and the potential outcomes that await us.
How to apply Ezekiel 21:10 to your life
In our lives, we often face choices that can lead to significant consequences. This verse encourages us to reflect on our decisions and their potential impact. Instead of celebrating without thought, we should consider the seriousness of our actions and strive for positive change. Awareness can lead to better choices and outcomes for ourselves and others around us. Take a moment to evaluate your path and make adjustments where necessary.
Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from David's story: Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1–13)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Ezekiel 21:10
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Ezekiel 21:10
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Ezekiel
- Author
- Ezekiel the prophet
- Written
- Around 590 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ezekiel 21:10 mean?
Ezekiel 21:10 uses the imagery of a sharpened sword to symbolize impending judgment and destruction. It emphasizes the seriousness of the situation, suggesting that instead of celebrating, we should reflect on the consequences of our actions.
What is the significance of the sword in Ezekiel 21:10?
The sword in Ezekiel 21:10 represents judgment and the readiness for destruction. It highlights that the consequences of actions do not discriminate, affecting everyone, including those close to us.
What does 'the rod of my son' refer to in Ezekiel 21:10?
In Ezekiel 21:10, 'the rod of my son' symbolizes those who are close or dear to us. The verse indicates that judgment will impact even those we care about, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.
Why does Ezekiel 21:10 ask if we should rejoice?
Ezekiel 21:10 questions the appropriateness of rejoicing in light of impending doom. It serves as a reminder to take the seriousness of judgment seriously rather than celebrating thoughtlessly.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.