Old Testament
Ezekiel 3:25
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
As for you, son of man — they will tie you up with ropes and bind you so that you cannot go out among the people.
Compare translations
But thou, O son of man, behold, they shall put bands upon thee, and shall bind thee with them, and thou shalt not go out among them:
What Ezekiel 3:25 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is speaking to Ezekiel, referring to him as 'son of man.' He warns Ezekiel that the people will physically restrain him with ropes, preventing him from moving freely among them. This symbolizes the isolation and confinement Ezekiel will experience as he delivers God's messages. The binding represents the people's rejection of his words and their unwillingness to listen. Ezekiel's role as a prophet is challenging, as he must convey difficult truths while facing opposition. This situation highlights the struggle between a messenger of truth and a society that often resists it. Ezekiel's experience serves as a reminder that speaking out for what is right can lead to personal sacrifice and isolation. Yet, it is essential for those who seek to share important messages, even when faced with resistance. The verse emphasizes the weight of responsibility that comes with being a voice for God, illustrating the challenges that prophets and truth-tellers often encounter.
How to apply Ezekiel 3:25 to your life
When we stand up for what we believe in, we may face opposition or feel isolated. It's important to remember that sharing truth can be difficult, but it is necessary. Embrace your role as a truth-teller, even when it feels challenging. Seek support from others who share your values and beliefs. Stay committed to your message, knowing it can make a difference in the world around you. “,”chapter_summary_teaser”: “Ezekiel faces the challenge of delivering God’s
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 Joseph, Jacob's son's story: Joseph Is Born (Genesis 30:22–24)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Joseph, Jacob's son

Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. 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.
Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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 3:25
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 3:25
Related Bible verses
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 3:25 mean for modern believers?
Ezekiel 3:25 serves as a reminder that standing up for one's beliefs can lead to isolation and opposition. Modern believers may find themselves in situations where their values are challenged, and this verse encourages them to remain steadfast in their convictions despite potential backlash. It highlights the importance of being a voice for truth, even when it feels uncomfortable or lonely.
How does Ezekiel's binding relate to his prophetic mission?
Ezekiel's binding in this verse symbolizes the challenges he faces as a prophet. It reflects the rejection he will encounter from the people he is called to serve. This physical restraint serves as a metaphor for the spiritual and emotional isolation that often accompanies the role of a truth-teller, emphasizing the sacrifices prophets must make to deliver God's messages.
What can we learn about opposition from Ezekiel 3:25?
Ezekiel 3:25 teaches that opposition is a common experience for those who speak out for truth. It encourages believers to prepare for resistance when they share their convictions. The verse reminds us that while facing opposition can be discouraging, it is a part of the journey for those committed to their faith and values.
How does this verse relate to the theme of responsibility in prophecy?
This verse underscores the heavy responsibility that comes with being a prophet. Ezekiel's binding illustrates the personal sacrifices he must endure to fulfill his calling. It emphasizes that with the role of delivering God's messages comes the weight of accountability, as prophets must navigate rejection while remaining faithful to their mission.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.