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Ezekiel 36:13

Thus saith the Lord GOD; Because they say unto you, Thou land devourest up men, and hast bereaved thy nations;

Ezekiel 36:13 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse from the Book of Ezekiel, God is addressing the people of a certain land who have been accused of devouring men and causing harm to their nations. This condemnation is grounded in the idea that the land itself is responsible for the suffering and loss that has occurred within it. By attributing these actions to the land, the people are essentially shifting blame away from themselves and failing to take responsibility for their own actions. God's message in this verse serves as a warning against scapegoating and encourages introspection and accountability. It underscores the importance of recognizing the role that individuals play in shaping the fate of their nation, rather than attributing negative outcomes to external factors. This verse challenges readers to reflect on the consequences of their behavior and to strive for justice, compassion, and righteousness in their interactions with others.

Theological Overview

This verse from the book of Ezekiel 36:13 raises questions about the interpretation of the phrase "land devouring men." The theological interpretation of this verse suggests that God is addressing the Israelites, who have been accused by their neighbors of being a land that devours people and causes nations to become childless. By using this metaphor, God is highlighting the consequences of the Israelites' sinful behavior, such as idolatry and disobedience, which have led to their exile and the desolation of their land. The word study of "devour" here implies a sense of destruction and consuming, emphasizing the severity of the Israelites' actions and the impact it has had on their society. The verse serves as a warning from God about the consequences of their actions and urges them to repent and turn back to Him to avoid further destruction.

Ezekiel 36:13 in other translations

American Standard Version

Thus saith the Lord Jehovah: Because they say unto you, Thou [land] art a devourer of men, and hast been a bereaver of thy nation;

World English Bible

Thus says the Lord Yahweh: Because they say to you, You are a devourer of men, and have been a bereaver of your nation;

Douay-Rheims

Thus saith the Lord God: Because thy say of you: Thou art a devourer of men, and one that suffocatest thy nation:

Geneva Bible (1599)

Thus sayth the Lord God, because they say vnto you, Thou land deuourest vp men, and hast bene a waster of thy people,