Ezekiel 35:15
As thou didst rejoice at the inheritance of the house of Israel, because it was desolate, so will I do unto thee: thou shalt be desolate, O mount Seir, and all Idumea, even all of it: and they shall know that I am the LORD.
Ezekiel 35:15 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Ezekiel, the prophet is conveying a message from the Lord to the people of mount Seir and Idumea. The verse speaks of a comparison between the rejoicing of the house of Israel at the inheritance of the promised land and the desolation that will come upon mount Seir and Idumea. The Lord is reminding the people of mount Seir and Idumea that just as they took pleasure in the desolation of the house of Israel, they too will experience desolation. This serves as a warning to the people of mount Seir and Idumea that they cannot escape the judgment of the Lord. The verse emphasizes the power and authority of the Lord, making it clear that it is He who will bring about the desolation upon the land. Through this message, the Lord enforces the idea that He is the ultimate authority and that His judgments will be carried out.
Theological Overview
Within this verse from the book of Ezekiel, the theological interpretation centers around the concept of divine judgment and retribution. The comparison made between the rejoicing over the desolation of the house of Israel and the impending desolation of mount Seir and Idumea symbolizes God's justice and sovereignty over all nations. The use of the phrase "they shall know that I am the LORD" emphasizes the idea that through these actions, God's power and authority will be made known to all. The word "desolate" carries a significant theological weight, signifying the consequences of turning away from God and His ways. Through this verse, believers are reminded of the importance of obedience and faithfulness to avoid the same fate as those who face divine punishment. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the righteousness and holiness of God, and the consequences of disobedience in the eyes of the Lord.
Ezekiel 35:15 in other translations
American Standard Version
As thou didst rejoice over the inheritance of the house of Israel, because it was desolate, so will I do unto thee: thou shalt be desolate, O mount Seir, and all Edom, even all of it; and they shall know that I am Jehovah.
World English Bible
As you rejoiced over the inheritance of the house of Israel, because it was desolate, so will I do to you: you shall be desolate, Mount Seir, and all Edom, even all of it; and they shall know that I am Yahweh.
Douay-Rheims
As thou hast rejoiced over the inheritance of the house of Israel, because it was laid waste, so will I do to thee: thou shalt be laid waste, O mount Seir, and all Idumea: and they shall know that I am the Lord.
Geneva Bible (1599)
As thou diddest reioyce at the inheritance of the house of Israel, because it was desolate, so will I doe vnto thee: thou shalt be desolate, O mount Seir, and all Idumea wholly, and they shall know, that I am the Lord.