Old Testament
Ezekiel 5:17
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
I will send famine and savage wild animals against you, and they will rob you of your children. Plague and bloodshed will sweep through you, and I will bring the sword down on you. I, the LORD, have spoken."
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So will I send upon you famine and evil beasts, and they shall bereave thee; and pestilence and blood shall pass through thee; and I will bring the sword upon thee. I the LORD have spoken it.
What Ezekiel 5:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God warns of severe consequences for the people. He describes a time of great suffering, where famine will strike, and wild animals will threaten their safety. The loss of children symbolizes deep grief and devastation. Plagues and violence will sweep through the land, bringing destruction. The sword represents conflict and death. This message is a stark reminder of the seriousness of turning away from God. It emphasizes the importance of staying faithful and the dire outcomes of disobedience. God’s declaration is final, showing His authority and the weight of His words. The imagery used here is vivid and alarming, meant to provoke a strong emotional response and reflection on one’s actions and choices. It serves as a call to recognize the consequences of straying from a righteous path and the need for repentance and return to God’s ways. This warning is not just historical; it resonates with the need for accountability in our lives today, urging us to consider the impact of our decisions.
How to apply Ezekiel 5:17 to your life
This verse challenges us to reflect on our choices and their potential consequences. It encourages us to remain faithful and aware of the impact of our actions. By staying connected to our values, we can avoid the pitfalls of disobedience and seek a path of righteousness. Remember, our decisions shape our future and well-being. Choose wisely and stay true to your beliefs. “God’s words remind us to be vigilant and responsible.
Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary
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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 5:17 mean?
Ezekiel 5:17 conveys God's warning of severe consequences for disobedience, including famine, wild animals, plagues, and violence. It emphasizes the seriousness of turning away from God and the resulting suffering that can occur.
What is the significance of famine in Ezekiel 5:17?
Famine in Ezekiel 5:17 symbolizes a lack of sustenance and hope, representing the dire consequences of straying from God's guidance. It serves as a warning that turning away from God can lead to physical and spiritual deprivation.
What does the phrase 'savage wild animals' mean in Ezekiel 5:17?
The phrase 'savage wild animals' in Ezekiel 5:17 represents threats to safety and security, highlighting the dangers that arise when people turn away from God. It illustrates the chaos and fear that can engulf a community in disobedience.
What is the overall message of Ezekiel 5:17?
The overall message of Ezekiel 5:17 is a stark warning about the consequences of disobedience to God. It emphasizes the importance of faithfulness and the severe outcomes that can result from ignoring God's commands.
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