Ezekiel 38:18
And it shall come to pass at the same time when Gog shall come against the land of Israel, saith the Lord GOD, that my fury shall come up in my face.
Ezekiel 38:18 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Ezekiel describes a prophecy regarding the invasion of Israel by a nation called Gog, which is often interpreted as a symbolic representation of a powerful enemy of God's people. The verse conveys the intense anger and fury of God in response to this threat against His chosen land. It serves as a warning of the consequence of going against the will of the Lord and the punishment that will be brought upon those who seek to harm His people. The phrase "my fury shall come up in my face" vividly portrays the intense emotion and wrath of God towards those who stand against His people and His kingdom. This verse serves as a reminder of the ultimate power and sovereignty of God, who will protect and defend His people against all enemies, no matter how formidable they may seem.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse from Ezekiel 38:18 revolves around the imminent judgment of God upon the enemies of Israel. The mention of Gog, a symbolic figure representing a hostile nation, coming against the land of Israel signifies a time of great conflict and turmoil. When God declares that His fury will come up in His face, it conveys a sense of righteous anger and divine retribution against those who seek to harm His chosen people. This verse serves as a warning to those who oppose Israel and a reminder of God's unwavering protection over His chosen nation. The use of the term "fury" highlights the severity of God's response to those who seek to bring harm to His people, emphasizing the seriousness of the impending judgment. Overall, this verse underscores the sovereignty of God and His commitment to defending His people against all adversaries.
Ezekiel 38:18 in other translations
American Standard Version
And it shall come to pass in that day, when Gog shall come against the land of Israel, saith the Lord Jehovah, that my wrath shall come up into my nostrils.
World English Bible
It shall happen in that day, when Gog shall come against the land of Israel, says the Lord Yahweh, that my wrath shall come up into my nostrils.
Douay-Rheims
And it shall come to pass in that day, in the day of the coming of Gog upon the land of Israel, saith the Lord God, that my indignation shall come up in my wrath.
Geneva Bible (1599)
At the same time also whe Gog shall come against the land of Israel, sayth the Lord God, my wrath shall arise in mine anger.