Old Testament

Ezekiel 3:9

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 telling Ezekiel that He has given him a strong resolve, symbolized by a forehead like a diamond.

Author: Ezekiel the prophet
Written: Around 590 BC
Genre: Prophecy
Original Audience: Exiled Israelites in Babylon

CBTClear Bible Translation

I've made your forehead like a diamond, harder than flint. Don't be afraid of them, and don't be shaken by the way they look at you, even though they are a rebellious house.

KJVKing James Version

As an adamant harder than flint have I made thy forehead: fear them not, neither be dismayed at their looks, though they be a rebellious house.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, God is telling Ezekiel that He has given him a strong resolve, symbolized by a forehead like a diamond. This means Ezekiel will be tough and unyielding in the face of opposition. God encourages him not to fear the people he will speak to, even though they are known for their stubbornness and rebellion. The imagery of a diamond suggests that Ezekiel will be able to withstand harsh criticism and rejection. God understands that the people may look at him with disdain, but He assures Ezekiel that he should not be intimidated by their expressions. Instead, he should focus on delivering the message God has given him. This promise of strength is crucial for anyone facing challenges or opposition in their life, reminding us that we can stand firm when we have support from a higher power. God equips us to face difficult situations with courage and resilience, encouraging us to remain steadfast in our purpose and mission, regardless of how others may react to us.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Ezekiel 3:9 to your life

When facing criticism or rejection, remember that you have the strength to stand firm. Like Ezekiel, you can rely on your inner strength and purpose. Don’t let the opinions of others shake your confidence. Stay focused on your goals and the message you want to share with the world. Trust in your abilities and the support you have around you.

Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Ezekiel 3:9 mean?

Ezekiel 3:9 means that God has given Ezekiel a strong resolve, symbolized by a forehead like a diamond, to withstand opposition and criticism from a rebellious people. God encourages him not to fear their disdainful looks.

What is the significance of a 'forehead like a diamond' in Ezekiel 3:9?

The phrase 'forehead like a diamond' signifies strength and resilience. It indicates that Ezekiel will be tough and unyielding in delivering God's message, despite facing harsh reactions from others.

What does God tell Ezekiel in Ezekiel 3:9?

In Ezekiel 3:9, God tells Ezekiel not to be afraid of the people he will speak to, even though they are rebellious. He assures Ezekiel that he has been given the strength to face them.

How can I apply Ezekiel 3:9 to my life?

You can apply Ezekiel 3:9 by remembering that you have the inner strength to stand firm against criticism or rejection. Focus on your goals and trust in your abilities, regardless of how others may react.

Book Summary

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.

Beside each living creature appears a wheel on the earth, and the wheels have the appearance of a wheel within a wheel. Their rims are high and full of eyes all around. When the living creatures move, the wheels move with them, and the spirit of the living creature is in the wheels. Above the heads of the living creatures is the likeness of a firmament like crystal, and above the firmament is the likeness of a throne like a sapphire stone. Upon the throne is the likeness of a man with brightness like fire and a rainbow around him. Ezekiel sees the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD, and when he sees it, he falls upon his face and hears a voice speaking. Ezekiel 2: Son of Man, Stand Upon Your Feet The voice says to him, "Son of man, stand upon your feet, and I will speak unto you." The Spirit enters him and sets him on his feet, and the LORD speaks to him. The LORD says he sends him to the children of Israel, a rebellious nation that has transgressed against Him. Their fathers have rebelled, and they continue in stubbornness and impudence. Ezekiel is sent to speak the LORD's words to them whether they hear or refuse to hear. The LORD tells him they shall know that a prophet has been among them. The LORD warns him not to fear them or their words, though they are like briers and thorns and though he dwells among scorpions. He is not to be afraid of their faces. He must speak the LORD's words to them whether they listen or refuse, for they are most rebellious. The LORD commands him not to be rebellious like that rebellious house. He is told to open his mouth and eat what the LORD gives him. He sees a hand with a scroll written inside and outside with lamentations, mourning, and woe.

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