Old Testament
Ezekiel 36:13
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
This is what the Lord GOD says: People say about you, 'You land that devours people and bereaves your nations.'
Compare translations
Thus saith the Lord GOD; Because they say unto you, Thou land devourest up men, and hast bereaved thy nations;
What Ezekiel 36:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, God addresses the land of Israel, which has been criticized by others for being a place that consumes its people and leaves nations in despair. The people around Israel see it as a land that brings destruction and loss. This statement reflects the pain and suffering that the land has endured due to the actions of its inhabitants and the consequences of their choices. God acknowledges these perceptions but also emphasizes that He has a plan for restoration. The land, once seen as a devourer, will be transformed into a place of life and hope. This message is not just about the physical land but also about the people who live there. God is reminding them that their identity is not defined by their past failures but by His promise of renewal and healing. The focus shifts from despair to hope, showing that even in the darkest times, there is a path to redemption and a future filled with possibility. This transformation is a testament to God's unwavering love and commitment to His people.
How to apply Ezekiel 36:13 to your life
When facing criticism or feeling defined by past mistakes, remember that change is possible. Embrace the idea that your past does not dictate your future. Seek renewal in your life and trust in the potential for transformation. God offers hope and a fresh start to everyone willing to accept it.
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 36:13
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 36:13
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 36:13 mean?
Ezekiel 36:13 addresses the perception of the land of Israel as a place that consumes its people and causes despair among nations. God acknowledges this criticism but promises a future restoration and transformation for the land and its people.
What is the significance of the phrase 'devours people' in Ezekiel 36:13?
The phrase 'devours people' signifies the suffering and destruction associated with the land of Israel due to the actions of its inhabitants. It reflects how others view the land as a source of loss and hardship.
How does Ezekiel 36:13 relate to themes of hope and transformation?
Ezekiel 36:13 relates to hope and transformation by showing that despite the land's troubled past, God has a plan for renewal. It emphasizes that the identity of the land and its people can change through God's promise.
What can we learn from Ezekiel 36:13 about our past mistakes?
Ezekiel 36:13 teaches that our past does not define our future. It encourages us to seek renewal and transformation, reminding us that change is possible with God's help.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.