Ezekiel 15:3
Shall wood be taken thereof to do any work? or will men take a pin of it to hang any vessel thereon?
Ezekiel 15:3 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the Book of Isaiah is often interpreted as a rhetorical question posed to highlight the insignificance of idols made out of wood. The verse questions the use of wood, which is often seen as a common and mundane material, in the creation of idols meant for worship. In ancient times, people would carve idols out of wood and then decorate them with gold or silver, believing them to possess divine powers. However, this verse challenges the very idea of using such materials to create objects of worship. The verse questions whether wood, which is typically used for practical purposes like construction or fuel, can truly be considered suitable for creating objects to be worshipped. By asking if men would even use a piece of wood to hang a vessel on, the verse aims to emphasize the absurdity of using wood to make idols. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder to focus on worshiping the true God rather than idols made by human hands.
Theological Overview
When looking at the theological interpretation of this verse, we can see that it is part of a passage where God is questioning the usefulness of idols made by humans. In this specific verse, God is questioning the logic of using wood from a tree to create an idol, when the same wood could be used for more practical purposes. By asking whether wood should be used to make a functional item or an object of worship, God is highlighting the absurdity of worshiping something created by human hands. This verse serves as a reminder to the people to focus on worshiping the one true God, rather than putting their trust in man-made idols.
Ezekiel 15:3 in other translations
American Standard Version
Shall wood be taken thereof to make any work? or will men take a pin of it to hang any vessel thereon?
World English Bible
Will wood be taken of it to make anything? Will men take a pin of it to hang any vessel on it?
Douay-Rheims
Shall wood be taken of it, to do any work, or shall a pin be made of it for any vessel to hang thereon?
Geneva Bible (1599)
Shall wood bee taken thereof to doe any worke? or wil men take a pin of it to hang any vessel thereon?