Ezekiel 12:19
And say unto the people of the land, Thus saith the Lord GOD of the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and of the land of Israel; They shall eat their bread with carefulness, and drink their water with astonishment, that her land may be desolate from all that is therein, because of the violence of all them that dwell therein.
Ezekiel 12:19 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Ezekiel, is a message from the Lord GOD to the inhabitants of Jerusalem and the land of Israel. It speaks of a time when the people will have to eat their bread with carefulness and drink their water with astonishment. This is a consequence of the violence and wickedness that have taken root in the land, leading to desolation. The verse serves as a warning to the people of the consequences of their actions and the importance of living in righteousness and peace. It highlights the idea that the choices and behaviors of individuals not only impact themselves but also the land they inhabit. The verse emphasizes the importance of living in harmony and treating one another with respect and kindness to avoid the devastation that comes from violence and wickedness. It is a reminder that the Lord GOD is watching over His people and expects them to uphold His commandments in order to enjoy His blessings and protection.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the prophet Ezekiel delivers a message from the Lord to the people of Jerusalem and the land of Israel. The phrase "eat their bread with carefulness, and drink their water with astonishment" is a powerful image that speaks to the severity of the judgment that will befall the people. This phrase conveys the idea that the people will experience a profound sense of anxiety and fear as they go about their daily activities, highlighting the devastating consequences of their actions. The word "astonishment" in particular suggests a sense of disbelief and shock at the dire situation they find themselves in. The overall message of this verse is one of warning and judgment, emphasizing the consequences of the violence and wickedness that have taken root in the land. As readers reflect on this verse, they are reminded of the importance of living in accordance with God's will and the need for repentance in the face of sin.
Ezekiel 12:19 in other translations
American Standard Version
and say unto the people of the land, Thus saith the Lord Jehovah concerning the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and the land of Israel: They shall eat their bread with fearfulness, and drink their water in dismay, that her land may be desolate, [and despoiled] of all that is therein, because of the violence of all them that dwell therein.
World English Bible
and tell the people of the land, Thus says the Lord Yahweh concerning the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and the land of Israel: They shall eat their bread with fearfulness, and drink their water in dismay, that her land may be desolate, and all that is therein, because of the violence of all those who dwell therein.
Douay-Rheims
And say to the people of the land: Thus saith the Lord God to them that dwell in Jerusalem in the land of Israel: They shall eat their bread in care, and drink their water in desolation: that the land may become desolate from the multitude that is therein, for the iniquity of all that dwell therein.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And say vnto the people of the land, Thus saith the Lord God of the inhabitants of Ierusalem, and of the lande of Israel, They shall eate their bread with carefulnes, and drinke their water with desolation: for the lande shall bee desolate from her abundance because of the crueltie of them that dwell therein.