Old Testament
Ezekiel 21:7
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, God is speaking through Ezekiel, expressing the deep sorrow and anxiety that will come with the news of impending judgment.
- Author
- Ezekiel the prophet
- Written
- Around 590 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
When they ask you, 'Why are you groaning?' tell them, 'Because of the news that's coming. When it arrives, every heart will melt, every hand will go limp, every spirit will grow faint, and every knee will turn to water. It's coming — and it will happen,' declares the Lord GOD."
And it shall be, when they say unto thee, Wherefore sighest thou? that thou shalt answer, For the tidings; because it cometh: and every heart shall melt, and all hands shall be feeble, and every spirit shall faint, and all knees shall be weak as water: behold, it cometh, and shall be brought to pass, saith the Lord GOD.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is speaking through Ezekiel, expressing the deep sorrow and anxiety that will come with the news of impending judgment. When people notice Ezekiel's groaning, they will ask why he is distressed. He is to explain that the news is so severe that it will cause fear and weakness in everyone. Hearts will melt, hands will tremble, and spirits will faint. This imagery illustrates the overwhelming impact of the message that is about to unfold. It emphasizes the seriousness of the situation and the emotional response it will evoke. God is making it clear that this is not just a minor event; it is a significant moment that will shake the very core of the people. The certainty of this news is underscored by God's declaration, assuring that it will indeed come to pass. This serves as a reminder of the weight of God's words and the reality of consequences that follow disobedience and unfaithfulness. The groaning signifies a deep concern for the fate of the people.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Ezekiel 21:7 to your life
When faced with difficult news or situations, it's natural to feel overwhelmed. Acknowledge your feelings and share them with others. Remember that God is aware of our struggles and provides strength in times of weakness. Trust in His promises, even when circumstances seem dire. Seek support from your community during tough times, as we are not alone in our struggles. “Be strong and courageous; do not be afraid.” This can help you navigate through life's
Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ezekiel 21:7 mean?
Ezekiel 21:7 conveys God's message of impending judgment, expressing the emotional turmoil that will arise from the news. It highlights how this news will cause fear and weakness among the people, indicating the seriousness of the situation.
What is the significance of groaning in Ezekiel 21:7?
The groaning in Ezekiel 21:7 symbolizes deep sorrow and concern for the fate of the people. It reflects the weight of the impending judgment and the emotional response it will evoke in everyone.
What does 'every heart will melt' mean in Ezekiel 21:7?
The phrase 'every heart will melt' in Ezekiel 21:7 signifies a profound sense of fear and despair that will overwhelm the people upon hearing the news of judgment. It illustrates the deep emotional response to the seriousness of the situation.
How can I apply Ezekiel 21:7 to my life?
You can apply Ezekiel 21:7 by acknowledging your feelings during difficult times and seeking support from others. Trust in God's presence and strength, even when facing overwhelming circumstances.
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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