Old Testament
Ezekiel 21:14
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 instructs Ezekiel to deliver a powerful message.
- Author
- Ezekiel the prophet
- Written
- Around 590 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
"So prophesy, son of man! Clap your hands together. Let the sword strike twice — even 3 times! It is a sword of slaughter, a massive blade of death that closes in on them from every side.
Thou therefore, son of man, prophesy, and smite thine hands together, and let the sword be doubled the third time, the sword of the slain: it is the sword of the great men that are slain, which entereth into their privy chambers.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, God instructs Ezekiel to deliver a powerful message. The act of clapping hands symbolizes the urgency and intensity of the warning. The repeated mention of the sword emphasizes the severity of the impending judgment. This sword represents destruction and death, closing in on those who have turned away from God. The imagery is vivid, illustrating a dire situation where no one can escape the consequences of their actions. Ezekiel's role is to make this message clear and impactful, urging people to recognize the seriousness of their choices. The call to prophesy is not just about foretelling events; it’s about awakening hearts to the reality of their circumstances. This passage serves as a reminder that actions have consequences, and it’s crucial to heed warnings before it’s too late. The urgency in Ezekiel's message is a call to reflect on our own lives and the paths we choose to follow, encouraging us to seek a better way before facing dire outcomes.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Ezekiel 21:14 to your life
This passage challenges us to consider the seriousness of our choices and the potential consequences they carry. Just as Ezekiel was called to deliver a warning, we too can share important truths with those around us. Reflect on your own life and make choices that lead to positive outcomes, avoiding paths that lead to destruction. Take time to listen to warnings in your life and act on them wisely. Remember, it’s never too late to
Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ezekiel 21:14 mean?
Ezekiel 21:14 conveys God's command to Ezekiel to deliver a strong warning about impending judgment. The imagery of the sword signifies destruction and the seriousness of the consequences for those who have turned away from God.
What is the significance of the sword in Ezekiel 21:14?
The sword in Ezekiel 21:14 symbolizes imminent destruction and death. Its repeated mention highlights the severity of God's judgment and the inescapable fate awaiting those who do not heed the warning.
What does clapping hands mean in Ezekiel 21:14?
In Ezekiel 21:14, clapping hands represents urgency and intensity in delivering God's message. It signifies the seriousness of the warning and the need for immediate attention to the impending judgment.
How can I apply Ezekiel 21:14 to my life?
You can apply Ezekiel 21:14 by reflecting on your choices and their consequences. It encourages you to listen to warnings in your life and make decisions that lead to positive outcomes, avoiding paths that could lead to destruction.
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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