Ezekiel 29:16
And it shall be no more the confidence of the house of Israel, which bringeth their iniquity to remembrance, when they shall look after them: but they shall know that I am the Lord GOD.
Ezekiel 29:16 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Ezekiel emphasizes the idea that the people of Israel should not place their confidence in material things or sinful practices. The verse suggests that the house of Israel had become reliant on things that brought their iniquity to remembrance, causing them to stray from the path of righteousness. However, the verse assures that there will come a time when the people will no longer look to these false sources of confidence but will instead recognize and acknowledge the authority and power of the Lord GOD. This shift in mindset signifies a turning point for the people of Israel, as they come to truly know and understand the supremacy of God in their lives. It serves as a reminder to prioritize spiritual growth and reliance on God rather than earthly possessions or sinful behaviors.
Theological Overview
This verse from Ezekiel 29:16 highlights the shift in the relationship between God and the house of Israel. The phrase "confidence of the house of Israel" points to their misplaced trust in earthly powers and false gods rather than in the Lord God. The word "confidence" here implies a false sense of security and reliance on something other than God. The word "iniquity" draws attention to the sins of the people which they have forgotten in their pursuit of worldly pleasures. The phrase "when they shall look after them" suggests that in times of trouble, the people will turn to their false idols and realize their folly. However, the verse concludes with a powerful statement of God's sovereignty as He declares that the people will come to know that He is the Lord God. This signifies a turning point for the house of Israel, where they no longer put their trust in false idols but acknowledge the one true God.
Ezekiel 29:16 in other translations
American Standard Version
And it shall be no more the confidence of the house of Israel, bringing iniquity to remembrance, when they turn to look after them: and they shall know that I am the Lord Jehovah.
World English Bible
It shall be no more the confidence of the house of Israel, bringing iniquity to memory, when they turn to look after them: and they shall know that I am the Lord Yahweh.”’”
Douay-Rheims
And they shall be no more a confidence to the house of Israel, teaching iniquity, that they may flee, and follow them: and they shall know that I am the Lord God.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And it shall be no more the confidence of the house of Israel, to bring their iniquitie to remembrance by looking after them, so shall they knowe, that I am the Lord God.