Ezekiel 39:15
And the passengers that pass through the land, when any seeth a man's bone, then shall he set up a sign by it, till the buriers have buried it in the valley of Hamongog.
Ezekiel 39:15 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Ezekiel, the prophet is describing a ritual that the people of Israel are instructed to perform when they come across a man's bone while traveling through the land. The passage suggests a deep respect for the dead and a sense of responsibility to ensure that their remains are properly buried. It reflects a cultural and religious value placed on honoring the deceased and ensuring that they receive a proper burial. By setting up a sign near the bone until it is buried by the designated buriers, the people are showing reverence and care for the dead, even those who have been forgotten or left unburied. This verse highlights the importance of respecting the dignity of the deceased and fulfilling the duty to provide a proper burial, no matter the circumstances. It serves as a reminder of the value of each individual life and the responsibility we have to honor and remember those who have passed on.
Theological Overview
One possible theological interpretation of Ezekiel 39:15 involves the idea of respect for the dead. The verse instructs passersby to set up a sign when they see a man's bone until it can be properly buried. This demonstrates a reverence for human life and the importance of giving proper burial to the deceased. From a theological standpoint, this act could also symbolize the value of honoring those who have passed on, acknowledging their humanity even in death. In a broader sense, it may serve as a reminder of the impermanence of life and the need to show compassion and care for all individuals, both living and deceased. Additionally, the mention of the valley of Hamongog could carry symbolic significance, as valleys are often associated with spiritual journeys or trials. Overall, this verse calls for a sense of responsibility towards the deceased and highlights the importance of treating all individuals with dignity and respect, even in death.
Ezekiel 39:15 in other translations
American Standard Version
And they that pass through the land shall pass through; and when any seeth a man's bone, then shall he set up a sign by it, till the buriers have buried it in the valley of Hamon-gog.
World English Bible
Those who pass through the land shall pass through; and when any sees a man’s bone, then shall he set up a sign by it, until the undertakers have buried it in the valley of Hamon Gog.
Douay-Rheims
And they shall go about passing through the land: and when they shall see the bone of a man, they shall set up sign by it, till the buriers bury it in the valley, of the multitude of Gog.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And the trauailers that passe through the land, if any see a mans bone, then shall he set vp a signe by it, till the buriers haue buried it, in the valley of Hamon-Gog.