Ezekiel 35:12
And thou shalt know that I am the LORD, and that I have heard all thy blasphemies which thou hast spoken against the mountains of Israel, saying, They are laid desolate, they are given us to consume.
Ezekiel 35:12 · King James Version
Meaning
Within this verse from the book of Ezekiel, the message conveyed is one of divine retribution and justice. The Lord is speaking to the prophet Ezekiel, informing him that He is aware of the blasphemies spoken against the mountains of Israel. The mountains hold symbolic significance in this context, representing the strength and stability of the nation of Israel. By declaring that the mountains have been laid desolate and given over to be consumed, the individuals responsible for these blasphemous words are essentially wishing destruction and ruin upon the nation. However, the verse serves as a reminder that the Lord is all-knowing and hears all such blasphemies, ensuring that justice will ultimately be served. The message is a warning to those who seek to harm or disparage the chosen people of God, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness and obedience to His commandments.
Theological Overview
When examining the theological interpretation of this verse, we see that the speaker is claiming to be the LORD who has heard all the blasphemies spoken against the mountains of Israel. The mention of blaspheming against the mountains of Israel could be symbolic of disrespect or disregard for the sacred places in Israel. The statement "They are laid desolate, they are given us to consume" reflects a sense of conquest or destruction of the land. The phrase "know that I am the LORD" emphasizes the power and authority of God, reminding the listener of His omnipotence and ability to witness all actions. This verse serves as a reminder that God is aware of all acts of blasphemy and disrespect towards sacred places, and that ultimately, He holds the power to judge and act accordingly.
Ezekiel 35:12 in other translations
American Standard Version
And thou shalt know that I, Jehovah, have heard all thy revilings which thou hast spoken against the mountains of Israel, saying, They are laid desolate, they are given us to devour.
World English Bible
You shall know that I, Yahweh, have heard all your insults which you have spoken against the mountains of Israel, saying, They are laid desolate, they have been given us to devour.
Douay-Rheims
And thou shalt know that I the Lord have heard all thy reproaches, that thou hast spoken against the mountains of Israel, saying. They are desolate, they are given to us to consume.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And thou shalt know, that I the Lord haue heard all thy blasphemies which thou hast spoken against the mountaines of Israel, saying, They lye waste, they are giuen vs to be deuoured.