Old Testament
Ezekiel 5:3
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 instructs Ezekiel to take a small number of hairs from his head and tuck them into the folds of his robe.
- Author
- Ezekiel the prophet
- Written
- Around 590 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
But take a small number of hairs from it and tuck them into the folds of your robe.
Thou shalt also take thereof a few in number, and bind them in thy skirts.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God instructs Ezekiel to take a small number of hairs from his head and tuck them into the folds of his robe. This act symbolizes a remnant of people who will be preserved despite the coming destruction. The hair represents the people of Israel, and tucking it away signifies hope and protection. Even in times of judgment, God shows that He cares for a few who remain faithful. This small remnant will be a sign of God's mercy and a reminder that not all is lost. It emphasizes that while many may face consequences for their actions, there is still a chance for redemption and survival. This act serves as a powerful visual reminder of God's ongoing relationship with His people, even in difficult times. It encourages us to hold on to hope and recognize that God sees and values each individual, no matter how small their number may be. The message is clear: God is always looking out for those who remain loyal to Him, even when circumstances seem dire and hopeless.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Ezekiel 5:3 to your life
In our lives, we may feel overwhelmed by challenges, but this verse reminds us that God values each of us. Even when things seem bleak, we can find comfort in knowing that we are not alone. Hold on to hope and trust in God's care for you, no matter your situation. Remember, every individual matters to Him, and He has a plan for you. Stay faithful and look for the signs of His presence in
Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ezekiel 5:3 mean?
Ezekiel 5:3 means that God is instructing Ezekiel to take a small number of hairs from his head and tuck them into his robe as a symbol of the remnant of Israel that will be preserved despite impending destruction.
What is the significance of the remnant in Ezekiel 5:3?
The remnant in Ezekiel 5:3 signifies hope and God's mercy, representing those faithful individuals who will be saved even when many face judgment.
What does tucking hair into the robe symbolize in Ezekiel 5:3?
Tucking hair into the robe symbolizes God's protection and care for a few faithful people amidst widespread judgment, highlighting that not all is lost.
What themes are present in Ezekiel 5:3?
The themes present in Ezekiel 5:3 include remnant, hope, mercy, and faithfulness, illustrating God's ongoing relationship with His people even in difficult times.

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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