Old Testament
Ezekiel 31:6
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, we see a powerful image of a great tree that provides shelter and safety.
- Author
- Ezekiel the prophet
- Written
- Around 590 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
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.
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.
Verse Analysis
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. Explore related community.
Related Bible verses
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
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.

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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