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Ezekiel 3:17

Son of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel: therefore hear the word at my mouth, and give them warning from me.

Ezekiel 3:17 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse from the book of Ezekiel in the Bible, God appoints Ezekiel as a watchman to the house of Israel. The term "watchman" refers to a guardian, a lookout, or a sentinel who is responsible for watching over and protecting a particular group of people. In this context, God is instructing Ezekiel to listen to His word and to warn the people of Israel about the consequences of their actions. As a watchman, Ezekiel is tasked with delivering God's message to the people, whether it be words of encouragement or words of warning. This verse emphasizes the importance of paying attention to God's word and being proactive in sharing it with others. It serves as a reminder that we all have a responsibility to watch out for the well-being of others and to guide them towards the path of righteousness.

Theological Overview

The verse "Son of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel: therefore hear the word at my mouth, and give them warning from me," from the book of Ezekiel (chapter 3, verse 17) is a significant call to responsibility and duty given to the prophet Ezekiel by God. The title 'Son of man' is a recurring term used throughout the Bible to refer to a human being, showing the prophet's humanity and humility in carrying out the important task of being a watchman for the people of Israel. The term 'watchman' is a metaphor for someone who is meant to look out for and warn others of potential danger or threats. In this context, Ezekiel is called to listen to God's word and deliver warnings to the people of Israel based on what he hears. This verse emphasizes the role of prophets in conveying God's messages to His people and underscores the importance of obedience and vigilance in fulfilling one's divine calling.

Ezekiel 3:17 in other translations

American Standard Version

Son of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel: therefore hear the word at my mouth, and give them warning from me.

World English Bible

Son of man, I have made you a watchman to the house of Israel: therefore hear the word from my mouth, and give them warning from me.

Douay-Rheims

Son of man, I have made thee a watchman to the house of Israel: and thou shalt hear the word out of my mouth, and shalt tell it them from me.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Sonne of man, I haue made thee a watchman vnto the house of Israel: therefore heare the worde at my mouth, and giue them warning from me.