Old Testament

Ezekiel 31:6

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

All the birds of the sky nested in its branches, and all the wild animals gave birth to their young beneath its limbs. All the great nations lived in its shade.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

All the fowls of heaven made their nests in his boughs, and under his branches did all the beasts of the field bring forth their young, and under his shadow dwelt all great nations.

What Ezekiel 31:6 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, we see a powerful image of a great tree that provides shelter and safety. The birds find a home in its branches, while wild animals give birth under its protective limbs. This tree symbolizes strength and stability, offering a refuge for all who seek it. The great nations, like the animals and birds, thrive in its shade, suggesting that they find comfort and support in its presence. This imagery highlights the interconnectedness of life, where different creatures rely on one another and the environment for survival. The tree represents a source of life and sustenance, illustrating how communities can flourish when they come together under a common purpose. It reminds us of the importance of creating safe spaces for others, where they can grow and thrive. Ultimately, this verse encourages us to be like the tree, providing support and shelter to those around us, fostering a sense of belonging and unity in our communities. By doing so, we contribute to a healthier, more vibrant world.

How to apply Ezekiel 31:6 to your life

Consider how you can be a source of support for others in your life. Create spaces where people feel safe and valued. By nurturing relationships and fostering community, you can help others thrive and grow, just like the tree in this verse. Your actions can make a significant difference in someone's life. Be that refuge for others today, and watch your community flourish together.

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.

A painting of Lamech holding his newborn son Noah outside a tent, with a plow and tools lying on the ground nearby

Illustrated scene from Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Noah

An old color photograph of Nablus in a green valley below Mount Gerizim, with people resting on rocks in front.

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, 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.

Shechem

Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.

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 Plans

Ask AI about Ezekiel 31:6

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 31:6

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 31:6 mean?

Ezekiel 31:6 describes a majestic tree that symbolizes strength and stability, providing shelter for birds and a safe place for wild animals to give birth. This imagery reflects how great nations find comfort and support under its shade, illustrating the importance of community and interconnectedness.

What is the significance of the tree in Ezekiel 31:6?

The tree in Ezekiel 31:6 represents a source of life and security, highlighting the role of strong foundations in communities. It serves as a metaphor for how individuals and nations can thrive when they have support and safety.

What does the phrase 'great nations lived in its shade' mean in Ezekiel 31:6?

The phrase 'great nations lived in its shade' signifies that powerful nations find refuge and strength under the protection of the tree, symbolizing the importance of unity and support in fostering growth and stability.

How does Ezekiel 31:6 relate to community support?

Ezekiel 31:6 illustrates the idea that just as the tree provides shelter for various creatures, individuals can create safe spaces for others in their communities. This verse encourages fostering relationships that allow people to thrive together.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.