Old Testament

Ezekiel 5:3

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

ClearClear Bible Translation

But take a small number of hairs from it and tuck them into the folds of your robe.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

Thou shalt also take thereof a few in number, and bind them in thy skirts.

What Ezekiel 5:3 means

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.

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

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 5:3

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 5:3

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 5:3 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.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

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