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Ezekiel 12:3

Ezekiel 12:3 in Multiple Translations

Therefore, son of man, pack your bags for exile. In broad daylight, set out from your place and go to another as they watch. Perhaps they will understand, though they are a rebellious house.

Therefore, thou son of man, prepare thee stuff for removing, and remove by day in their sight; and thou shalt remove from thy place to another place in their sight: it may be they will consider, though they be a rebellious house.

Therefore, thou son of man, prepare thee stuff for removing, and remove by day in their sight; and thou shalt remove from thy place to another place in their sight: it may be they will consider, though they are a rebellious house.

And you, O son of man, by day, before their eyes, get ready the vessels of one who is taken away, and go away from your place to another place before their eyes: it may be that they will see, though they are an uncontrolled people.

So, son of man, go and pack your bags as if you're going into exile. As people watch, get everything ready during the day so you can leave where you are and go somewhere else. Maybe they will realize what this means, even though they are rebellious people.

Therefore thou sonne of man, prepare thy stuffe to goe into captiuitie, and goe foorth by day in their sight: and thou shalt passe from thy place to another place in their sight, if it be possible that they may consider it: for they are a rebellious house.

And thou, son of man, make to thee vessels of removal, and remove by day before their eyes, and thou hast removed from thy place unto another place before their eyes, it may be they consider, for a rebellious house they [are].

“Therefore, you son of man, prepare your baggage for moving, and move by day in their sight. You shall move from your place to another place in their sight. It may be they will consider, though they are a rebellious house.

Therefore, thou son of man, prepare thee stuff for removing, and remove by day in their sight; and thou shalt remove from thy place to another place in their sight; it may be they will consider, though they are a rebellious house.

Thou, therefore, O son of man, prepare thee all necessaries for removing, and remove by day in their sight: and thou shalt remove out of thy place to another place in their sight, if so be they will regard it: for they are a provoking house.

Therefore, you human, pack your belongings as though you were ◄going into exile/being forced to go to another country►. Then, during the daytime, while people are watching, prepare to go to another place. Even though the people are rebellious, perhaps they will understandwhat you are symbolizing.

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Berean Amplified Bible — Ezekiel 12:3

BAB
Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

Ezekiel 12:3 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB
HEB וְ/אַתָּ֣ה בֶן אָדָ֗ם עֲשֵׂ֤ה לְ/ךָ֙ כְּלֵ֣י גוֹלָ֔ה וּ/גְלֵ֥ה יוֹמָ֖ם לְ/עֵֽינֵי/הֶ֑ם וְ/גָלִ֨יתָ מִ/מְּקוֹמְ/ךָ֜ אֶל מָק֤וֹם אַחֵר֙ לְ/עֵ֣ינֵי/הֶ֔ם אוּלַ֣י יִרְא֔וּ כִּ֛י בֵּ֥ית מְרִ֖י הֵֽמָּה
וְ/אַתָּ֣ה ʼattâh H859 you(m.s.) Conj | Pron
בֶן bên H1121 son N-ms
אָדָ֗ם ʼâdâm H120 the man (Adam) N-ms
עֲשֵׂ֤ה ʻâsâh H6213 to make V-Qal-Impv-2ms
לְ/ךָ֙ Prep | Suff
כְּלֵ֣י kᵉlîy H3627 article/utensil N-mp
גוֹלָ֔ה gôwlâh H1473 captivity N-fs
וּ/גְלֵ֥ה gâlâh H1540 to reveal Conj | V-Qal-Impv-2ms
יוֹמָ֖ם yôwmâm H3119 by day Adv
לְ/עֵֽינֵי/הֶ֑ם ʻayin H5869 eye Prep | N-cd | Suff
וְ/גָלִ֨יתָ gâlâh H1540 to reveal Conj | V-Qal-2ms
מִ/מְּקוֹמְ/ךָ֜ mâqôwm H4725 place Prep | N-ms | Suff
אֶל ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep
מָק֤וֹם mâqôwm H4725 place N-ms
אַחֵר֙ ʼachêr H312 another Adj
לְ/עֵ֣ינֵי/הֶ֔ם ʻayin H5869 eye Prep | N-cd | Suff
אוּלַ֣י ʼûwlay H194 perhaps Adv
יִרְא֔וּ râʼâh H7200 Provider V-Qal-Imperf-3mp
כִּ֛י kîy H3588 for Conj
בֵּ֥ית bayith H1004 place N-ms
מְרִ֖י mᵉrîy H4805 rebellion N-ms
הֵֽמָּה hêm H1992 they(masc.) Pron
Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — Ezekiel 12:3

וְ/אַתָּ֣ה ʼattâh H859 "you(m.s.)" Conj | Pron
You is the translation of a Hebrew word used to address someone directly, like when God says you to someone in the Bible. It can be singular or plural, and is often translated as thee, thou, or ye.
Definition: you (second pers. sing. masc.)
Usage: Occurs in 997 OT verses. KJV: thee, thou, ye, you. See also: Genesis 3:11; Exodus 23:9; Deuteronomy 14:1.
בֶן bên H1121 "son" N-ms
In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.
Definition: : child/son
Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.
אָדָ֗ם ʼâdâm H120 "the man (Adam)" N-ms
Adam was the first human, created by God and mentioned in Genesis 2:19, who married Eve and had sons including Cain, Abel, and Seth.
Definition: The first named man living at the time before the Flood, first mentioned at Gen.2.19; married to Eve (H2332); father of: Cain (H7014B), Abel (H1893) and Seth (H8352); also translated "man" at Gen.2.19,21,23; 3.8,9,20; 5.2; "mankind" at Deu.32.8; "others" at Job.31.33; Another spelling of a.dam (אָדָם "Adam" H0121) man, human being
Usage: Occurs in 526 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] another, [phrase] hypocrite, [phrase] common sort, [idiom] low, man (mean, of low degree), person. See also: Genesis 1:26; Judges 18:7; Psalms 8:5.
עֲשֵׂ֤ה ʻâsâh H6213 "to make" V-Qal-Impv-2ms
This verb means to make or do something, and is used over 2,600 times in the Bible. It is first used in Genesis 1:7 to describe God's creation of the world and is also used in Exodus 31:5 to describe the work of skilled craftsmen.
Definition: : make(OBJECT) 1) to do, fashion, accomplish, make 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to do, work, make, produce 1a1a) to do 1a1b) to work 1a1c) to deal (with) 1a1d) to act, act with effect, effect 1a2) to make 1a2a) to make 1a2b) to produce 1a2c) to prepare 1a2d) to make (an offering) 1a2e) to attend to, put in order 1a2f) to observe, celebrate 1a2g) to acquire (property) 1a2h) to appoint, ordain, institute 1a2i) to bring about 1a2j) to use 1a2k) to spend, pass 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be done 1b2) to be made 1b3) to be produced 1b4) to be offered 1b5) to be observed 1b6) to be used 1c) (Pual) to be made
Usage: Occurs in 2286 OT verses. KJV: accomplish, advance, appoint, apt, be at, become, bear, bestow, bring forth, bruise, be busy, [idiom] certainly, have the charge of, commit, deal (with), deck, [phrase] displease, do, (ready) dress(-ed), (put in) execute(-ion), exercise, fashion, [phrase] feast, (fight-) ing man, [phrase] finish, fit, fly, follow, fulfill, furnish, gather, get, go about, govern, grant, great, [phrase] hinder, hold (a feast), [idiom] indeed, [phrase] be industrious, [phrase] journey, keep, labour, maintain, make, be meet, observe, be occupied, offer, [phrase] officer, pare, bring (come) to pass, perform, pracise, prepare, procure, provide, put, requite, [idiom] sacrifice, serve, set, shew, [idiom] sin, spend, [idiom] surely, take, [idiom] thoroughly, trim, [idiom] very, [phrase] vex, be (warr-) ior, work(-man), yield, use. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 34:19; Exodus 18:24.
לְ/ךָ֙ "" Prep | Suff
כְּלֵ֣י kᵉlîy H3627 "article/utensil" N-mp
This Hebrew word refers to any object or tool, like a utensil or a piece of furniture. It is used to describe a wide range of items, from musical instruments to weapons. It emphasizes the object's purpose or function.
Definition: 1) article, vessel, implement, utensil 1a) article, object (general) 1b) utensil, implement, apparatus, vessel 1b1) implement (of hunting or war) 1b2) implement (of music) 1b3) implement, tool (of labour) 1b4) equipment, yoke (of oxen) 1b5) utensils, furniture 1c) vessel, receptacle (general) 1d) vessels (boats) of paper-reed
Usage: Occurs in 276 OT verses. KJV: armour(-bearer), artillery, bag, carriage, [phrase] furnish, furniture, instrument, jewel, that is made of, [idiom] one from another, that which pertaineth, pot, [phrase] psaltery, sack, stuff, thing, tool, vessel, ware, weapon, [phrase] whatsoever. See also: Genesis 24:53; 1 Samuel 14:13; Ezra 8:26.
גוֹלָ֔ה gôwlâh H1473 "captivity" N-fs
This word means being taken captive or exile, like when Israel was carried away to Babylon. It refers to a group of people forced to leave their homes. In the Bible, it appears in 2 Kings 25:21.
Definition: 1) exiles, exile, captivity 1a) exiles (coll) 1b) exile, captivity (abstract)
Usage: Occurs in 42 OT verses. KJV: (carried away), captive(-ity), removing. See also: 2 Kings 24:14; Jeremiah 29:16; Jeremiah 28:6.
וּ/גְלֵ֥ה gâlâh H1540 "to reveal" Conj | V-Qal-Impv-2ms
This Hebrew word means to reveal or uncover something, often in a way that's embarrassing or shameful. It can also mean to exile someone, forcing them to leave their home. In some cases, it's used to describe God revealing himself to people.
Definition: : reveal[information] 1) to uncover, remove 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to uncover 1a2) to remove, depart 1a3) to go into exile 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) (reflexive) 1b1a) to uncover oneself 1b1b) to discover or show oneself 1b1c) to reveal himself (of God) 1b2) (passive) 1b2a) to be uncovered 1b2b) to be disclosed, be discovered 1b2c) to be revealed 1b3) to be removed 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to uncover (nakedness) 1c1a) nakedness 1c1b) general 1c2) to disclose, discover, lay bare 1c3) to make known, show, reveal 1d) (Pual) to be uncovered 1e) (Hiphil) to carry away into exile, take into exile 1f) (Hophal) to be taken into exile 1g) (Hithpael) 1g1) to be uncovered 1g2) to reveal oneself
Usage: Occurs in 167 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] advertise, appear, bewray, bring, (carry, lead, go) captive (into captivity), depart, disclose, discover, exile, be gone, open, [idiom] plainly, publish, remove, reveal, [idiom] shamelessly, shew, [idiom] surely, tell, uncover. See also: Genesis 9:21; Job 38:17; Psalms 18:16.
יוֹמָ֖ם yôwmâm H3119 "by day" Adv
The word 'yomam' means 'by day' or 'daily', and is used in the Bible to describe actions or events that happen during the daytime. It can also refer to the daytime itself, as opposed to the nighttime. This word is used to emphasize the daily nature of certain activities or routines.
Definition: adv 1) by day, in the daytime subst 2) daytime
Usage: Occurs in 50 OT verses. KJV: daily, (by, in the) day(-time). See also: Exodus 13:21; Psalms 32:4; Psalms 1:2.
לְ/עֵֽינֵי/הֶ֑ם ʻayin H5869 "eye" Prep | N-cd | Suff
This word can mean a spring or fountain, but also refers to the eye or a source of something. It is often translated as affliction, outward appearance, or countenance, and is used in various contexts throughout the Bible.
Definition: : eye 1) eye 1a) eye 1a1) of physical eye 1a2) as showing mental qualities 1a3) of mental and spiritual faculties (fig.)
Usage: Occurs in 828 OT verses. KJV: affliction, outward appearance, [phrase] before, [phrase] think best, colour, conceit, [phrase] be content, countenance, [phrase] displease, eye((-brow), (-d), -sight), face, [phrase] favour, fountain, furrow (from the margin), [idiom] him, [phrase] humble, knowledge, look, ([phrase] well), [idiom] me, open(-ly), [phrase] (not) please, presence, [phrase] regard, resemblance, sight, [idiom] thee, [idiom] them, [phrase] think, [idiom] us, well, [idiom] you(-rselves). See also: Genesis 3:5; Exodus 34:9; Deuteronomy 28:67.
וְ/גָלִ֨יתָ gâlâh H1540 "to reveal" Conj | V-Qal-2ms
This Hebrew word means to reveal or uncover something, often in a way that's embarrassing or shameful. It can also mean to exile someone, forcing them to leave their home. In some cases, it's used to describe God revealing himself to people.
Definition: : reveal[information] 1) to uncover, remove 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to uncover 1a2) to remove, depart 1a3) to go into exile 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) (reflexive) 1b1a) to uncover oneself 1b1b) to discover or show oneself 1b1c) to reveal himself (of God) 1b2) (passive) 1b2a) to be uncovered 1b2b) to be disclosed, be discovered 1b2c) to be revealed 1b3) to be removed 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to uncover (nakedness) 1c1a) nakedness 1c1b) general 1c2) to disclose, discover, lay bare 1c3) to make known, show, reveal 1d) (Pual) to be uncovered 1e) (Hiphil) to carry away into exile, take into exile 1f) (Hophal) to be taken into exile 1g) (Hithpael) 1g1) to be uncovered 1g2) to reveal oneself
Usage: Occurs in 167 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] advertise, appear, bewray, bring, (carry, lead, go) captive (into captivity), depart, disclose, discover, exile, be gone, open, [idiom] plainly, publish, remove, reveal, [idiom] shamelessly, shew, [idiom] surely, tell, uncover. See also: Genesis 9:21; Job 38:17; Psalms 18:16.
מִ/מְּקוֹמְ/ךָ֜ mâqôwm H4725 "place" Prep | N-ms | Suff
Maqom means a place or location, like a city or a region. It can also refer to a condition of the body or mind. This term is used to describe a wide range of locations and situations.
Definition: 1) standing place, place 1a) standing place, station, post, office 1b) place, place of human abode 1c) city, land, region 1d) place, locality, spot 1e) space, room, distance 1f) region, quarter, direction 1g) give place to, instead of
Usage: Occurs in 379 OT verses. KJV: country, [idiom] home, [idiom] open, place, room, space, [idiom] whither(-soever). See also: Genesis 1:9; Deuteronomy 12:3; 1 Kings 20:24.
אֶל ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.
מָק֤וֹם mâqôwm H4725 "place" N-ms
Maqom means a place or location, like a city or a region. It can also refer to a condition of the body or mind. This term is used to describe a wide range of locations and situations.
Definition: 1) standing place, place 1a) standing place, station, post, office 1b) place, place of human abode 1c) city, land, region 1d) place, locality, spot 1e) space, room, distance 1f) region, quarter, direction 1g) give place to, instead of
Usage: Occurs in 379 OT verses. KJV: country, [idiom] home, [idiom] open, place, room, space, [idiom] whither(-soever). See also: Genesis 1:9; Deuteronomy 12:3; 1 Kings 20:24.
אַחֵר֙ ʼachêr H312 "another" Adj
Means another or next in the original Hebrew, often referring to someone or something that follows or is different. It appears in various contexts, including descriptions of people and events in the Bible.
Definition: 1) another, other, following 1a) following, further 1b) other, different
Usage: Occurs in 161 OT verses. KJV: (an-) other man, following, next, strange. See also: Genesis 4:25; 1 Kings 13:10; Psalms 16:4.
לְ/עֵ֣ינֵי/הֶ֔ם ʻayin H5869 "eye" Prep | N-cd | Suff
This word can mean a spring or fountain, but also refers to the eye or a source of something. It is often translated as affliction, outward appearance, or countenance, and is used in various contexts throughout the Bible.
Definition: : eye 1) eye 1a) eye 1a1) of physical eye 1a2) as showing mental qualities 1a3) of mental and spiritual faculties (fig.)
Usage: Occurs in 828 OT verses. KJV: affliction, outward appearance, [phrase] before, [phrase] think best, colour, conceit, [phrase] be content, countenance, [phrase] displease, eye((-brow), (-d), -sight), face, [phrase] favour, fountain, furrow (from the margin), [idiom] him, [phrase] humble, knowledge, look, ([phrase] well), [idiom] me, open(-ly), [phrase] (not) please, presence, [phrase] regard, resemblance, sight, [idiom] thee, [idiom] them, [phrase] think, [idiom] us, well, [idiom] you(-rselves). See also: Genesis 3:5; Exodus 34:9; Deuteronomy 28:67.
אוּלַ֣י ʼûwlay H194 "perhaps" Adv
Ulay means perhaps or if not, used to express uncertainty or doubt. It appears in various forms, such as peradventure or unless. It helps to convey tentative ideas.
Definition: 1) perhaps, peradventure 2) if peradventure 3) unless 4) suppose
Usage: Occurs in 44 OT verses. KJV: if so be, may be, peradventure, unless. See also: Genesis 16:2; 1 Samuel 14:6; Isaiah 37:4.
יִרְא֔וּ râʼâh H7200 "Provider" V-Qal-Imperf-3mp
The Hebrew word for provider means to see or look after, and is used to describe God's care for his people. It appears in various forms throughout the Bible, including in Genesis and other books.
Definition: (Lord will) Provide, cause to be seen. This name means to see, look at, inspect, look after
Usage: Occurs in 1206 OT verses. KJV: advise self, appear, approve, behold, [idiom] certainly, consider, discern, (make to) enjoy, have experience, gaze, take heed, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] joyfully, lo, look (on, one another, one on another, one upon another, out, up, upon), mark, meet, [idiom] be near, perceive, present, provide, regard, (have) respect, (fore-, cause to, let) see(-r, -m, one another), shew (self), [idiom] sight of others, (e-) spy, stare, [idiom] surely, [idiom] think, view, visions. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 41:41; Exodus 33:13.
כִּ֛י kîy H3588 "for" Conj
A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.
Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore
Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.
בֵּ֥ית bayith H1004 "place" N-ms
The Hebrew word for house refers to a dwelling place, including a family home, temple, or even the human body. It appears in various contexts, such as the temple in Jerusalem or the household of a family. In the Bible, it is often used to describe a place of worship or a family's living space.
Definition: nm place, origin, between
Usage: Occurs in 1712 OT verses. KJV: court, daughter, door, [phrase] dungeon, family, [phrase] forth of, [idiom] great as would contain, hangings, home(born), (winter) house(-hold), inside(-ward), palace, place, [phrase] prison, [phrase] steward, [phrase] tablet, temple, web, [phrase] within(-out). See also: Genesis 6:14; Exodus 8:5; Numbers 1:45.
מְרִ֖י mᵉrîy H4805 "rebellion" N-ms
Rebellion or bitterness, often used to describe someone who is against authority. It can also mean being rebellious or having a bitter attitude.
Definition: 1) rebellion 1a) rebellion 1b) rebellious (in construct)
Usage: Occurs in 21 OT verses. KJV: bitter, (most) rebel(-lion, -lious). See also: Numbers 17:25; Ezekiel 2:8; Proverbs 17:11.
הֵֽמָּה hêm H1992 "they(masc.)" Pron
This Hebrew word is used to refer to a group of men, emphasizing that it is specifically them. It is often translated as 'they' or 'them' in the Bible, and appears in books like Exodus and Isaiah.
Definition: they, these, the same, who
Usage: Occurs in 524 OT verses. KJV: it, like, [idiom] (how, so) many (soever, more as) they (be), (the) same, [idiom] so, [idiom] such, their, them, these, they, those, which, who, whom, withal, ye. See also: Genesis 3:7; Deuteronomy 19:17; 2 Kings 1:18.

Study Notes — Ezekiel 12:3

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Cross References

ReferenceText (BSB)
1 Jeremiah 36:3 Perhaps when the people of Judah hear about all the calamity I plan to bring upon them, each of them will turn from his wicked way. Then I will forgive their iniquity and their sin.”
2 2 Timothy 2:25 He must gently reprove those who oppose him, in the hope that God may grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth.
3 Jeremiah 26:3 Perhaps they will listen and turn—each from his evil way of life—so that I may relent of the disaster I am planning to bring upon them because of the evil of their deeds.
4 Jeremiah 36:7 Perhaps they will bring their petition before the LORD, and each one will turn from his wicked way; for great are the anger and fury that the LORD has pronounced against this people.”
5 Luke 20:13 ‘What shall I do?’ asked the owner of the vineyard. ‘I will send my beloved son. Perhaps they will respect him.’
6 Deuteronomy 32:29 If only they were wise, they would understand it; they would comprehend their fate.
7 Psalms 81:13 If only My people would listen to Me, if Israel would follow My ways,
8 Jeremiah 25:4–7 And the LORD has sent all His servants the prophets to you again and again, but you have not listened or inclined your ear to hear. The prophets told you, ‘Turn now, each of you, from your evil ways and deeds, and you can dwell in the land that the LORD has given to you and your fathers forever and ever. Do not follow other gods to serve and worship them, and do not provoke Me to anger with the works of your hands. Then I will do you no harm.’ ‘But to your own harm, you have not listened to Me,’ declares the LORD, ‘so you have provoked Me to anger with the works of your hands.’
9 Ezekiel 12:10–12 Tell them that this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘This burden concerns the prince in Jerusalem and all the house of Israel who are there.’ You are to say, ‘I am a sign to you.’ Just as it happened here, so will it be done to them; they will go into exile as captives. And at dusk the prince among them will lift his bags to his shoulder and go out. They will dig through the wall to bring him out. He will cover his face so he cannot see the land.
10 Deuteronomy 5:29 If only they had such a heart to fear Me and keep all My commandments always, so that it might be well with them and with their children forever.

Ezekiel 12:3 Summary

Ezekiel 12:3 is a call to action, where God instructs Ezekiel to pack his bags and move to another place in broad daylight, so everyone can see. This action is meant to show the people of Israel what will happen if they continue to disobey God, as warned in Deuteronomy 28:64. By doing this, Ezekiel is demonstrating the consequences of sin and the importance of obeying God, much like the teachings of Jesus in Matthew 24:24. Just like Ezekiel, we can learn to trust God and follow His instructions, even when it's difficult, and use our lives to demonstrate the love and seriousness of the gospel message to those around us.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to 'pack your bags for exile' in Ezekiel 12:3?

In this context, Ezekiel is being asked by God to act out a symbolic action, demonstrating to the people of Israel what it means to be in exile, as prophesied in Deuteronomy 28:64 and fulfilled in 2 Kings 25:11. This action is meant to convey the gravity of their rebellion against God.

Why does God instruct Ezekiel to perform this action 'in broad daylight'?

By performing this action during the day, Ezekiel's actions would be visible to all, serving as a public declaration of God's judgment, much like the public proclamation of repentance in Jonah 3:4-5. This visibility emphasizes the seriousness of the message.

What is the significance of the phrase 'a rebellious house' in Ezekiel 12:3?

The term 'rebellious house' refers to the Israelites' persistent refusal to obey God's commands, as seen in their history of disobedience outlined in the book of Judges and condemned by prophets like Isaiah in Isaiah 1:2-3. This phrase underscores the depth of their spiritual rebellion.

Is Ezekiel's action in Ezekiel 12:3 meant to change the hearts of the Israelites?

While Ezekiel's action is a call to repentance, it is also a demonstration of God's judgment, highlighting the consequences of their rebellion, as seen in Ezekiel 12:6 and reinforced by the teachings of Jesus in Matthew 24:24. The ultimate goal is for the Israelites to understand their condition and turn back to God.

Reflection Questions

  1. What are some ways in which I might be rebelling against God's will in my own life, and how can I use Ezekiel's example to reflect on my actions?
  2. How does the concept of being in 'exile' relate to my spiritual journey, and what can I learn from Ezekiel's experience about trusting God in difficult circumstances?
  3. In what ways can I, like Ezekiel, be a faithful messenger of God's word to those around me, even if they seem rebellious or unresponsive?
  4. What role does visibility and public witness play in my own Christian walk, and how can I use my daily life to demonstrate the seriousness of the gospel message?

Gill's Exposition on Ezekiel 12:3

Therefore, thou son of man, prepare thee stuff for removing,.... Or, "vessels of captivity" (s), such as persons take along with them when they go a journey, or into a far country; such as a staff, scrip, purse, shoes, c.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Ezekiel 12:3

Therefore, thou son of man, prepare thee stuff for removing, and remove by day in their sight; and thou shalt remove from thy place to another place in their sight: it may be they will consider, though they be a rebellious house.

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Ezekiel 12:3

Therefore; and. Prepare thee; make ready in the sight of some of those which live about thee, that they may tell others. Stuff for removing; vessels or instruments, wherein thou mayst put what is portable, and you, with leave from the conqueror, may carry for your conveniencies; pack up what thou canst that may be of use in thy captivity. Remove; go thy way, leave that place wherein thou now art, and go to another, with thy pack upon thy back, not on horses or asses. By day; at noon-tide, when the most may see what thou doest, and be instructed. It may be; it is not impossible that some may inquire what is the import and meaning of all this uncouth and obscure matter.

Trapp's Commentary on Ezekiel 12:3

Ezekiel 12:3 Therefore, thou son of man, prepare thee stuff for removing, and remove by day in their sight; and thou shalt remove from thy place to another place in their sight: it may be they will consider, though they [be] a rebellious house.Ver. 3. Therefore, thou son of man,] i.e., Nevertheless do thou as thou art bidden, and let what thou doest and sayest be for a testimony against them, stick in their souls and flesh, as the envenomed arrows of the Almighty throughout eternity. Prepare thee stuff for removing.] Heb., Instruments, or vessels. Convasa res tuas, collae sarcinas, pack up and away. See if this way thou canst work upon them. It may be they will consider,] sc., By this express sign, though they profit not by thy plain preaching. Ministers must study their people’ s souls; turn themselves into all forms and shapes, of spirit and of speech, to win upon them.

Ellicott's Commentary on Ezekiel 12:3

(3) Prepare thee stuff for removing.—The same words are translated in Jeremiah 46:19, “Furnish thyself to go into captivity.” Stuff includes all that an emigrant would require, clothes, utensils, &c.; and “removing” is the same word as is translated captivity in Ezekiel 12:4. The symbolical action was that of one preparing to leave his home to go into captivity. The prophet is to make his preparations during the day, and to carry forth his stuff (Ezekiel 12:7), but not himself to go forth until even (Ezekiel 12:4). The action seems to be that of one who must abandon his home, using the whole day to carry out all he can with the purpose of saving it, and then himself leaving the house when the day is done.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on Ezekiel 12:3

Verse 3. Prepare thee stuff for removing] Get carriages to transport thy goods to another place; signifying by this the captivity that was at hand.

Cambridge Bible on Ezekiel 12:3

3–7. Symbolical action, prefiguring the escape and capture of the fugitives The details of the symbol seem to be as follows: First, the prophet prepares “stuff for removing”—such articles as one meaning to escape would carry with him. These things being prepared, he brings them out. It is not said where he deposits them; it would be in some place convenient to make his escape from, in the vicinity of the wall of the city. These things he does before the eyes of the people during daylight. His action represents the conduct of persons in a besieged city, whose movements are free within the city; hence this part of the action is done openly (Ezekiel 12:3-4). Secondly, these preparations having been made by day, the prophet himself goes out in the even, in the darkness, and digs through the wall, making his escape at the opening, and carrying on his shoulder the articles which he had prepared to take with him in his flight. Besides doing this in the darkness he covers his face. In doing all this he is a “sign” to the house of Israel: in this way shall the king and those with him seek to escape into exile from the enemy when the city is about to fall into their hands (Ezekiel 12:4-7).

Barnes' Notes on Ezekiel 12:3

Stuff - Raiment, vessels, and the like. The “removing” was to be of the kind that accompanied exile. The whole account of this transaction marks it as a real act.

Whedon's Commentary on Ezekiel 12:3

3. Stuff for removing — Literally, traveling baggage for exile. Remove by day — Literally, remove as into captivity.

Sermons on Ezekiel 12:3

SermonDescription
Bob Jennings Stewards of the Mysteries of God by Bob Jennings This sermon emphasizes the importance of knowing the truth and sharing it with others, highlighting the role of believers as stewards of the mysteries of God and ambassadors of Chr
Keith Daniel Ten Vital Evidences of True Salvation by Keith Daniel In this sermon, the preacher shares two powerful stories that demonstrate the saving power of the Gospel. The first story recounts a time when the preacher was interrupted during h
George Warnock Purge Me With Hyssop by George Warnock George Warnock preaches on the importance of true repentance and seeking cleansing from God, using Psalm 51 as a guide. He emphasizes the need for acknowledging our sins, seeking i
J.H. Newman Bishop Wilson's Meditations on His Sacred Office, No. 5.-- Thursday--(Continued) by J.H. Newman J.H. Newman preaches on the importance of Church discipline, emphasizing the authority given by Jesus Christ to His ministers to judge and discipline according to His Word. Excommu
Anton Bosch Truth With Tears by Anton Bosch Anton Bosch addresses the misconception that aggressive and abrasive behavior is justified in defending the truth by examining the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. He emphasize
St. John Chrysostom Hebrews 6:7-12 by St. John Chrysostom John Chrysostom preaches about the importance of heeding the warnings in the Bible with fear and trembling, emphasizing the consequences of bearing thorns and thistles instead of f
Thomas Brooks A Flower Which Does Not Grow in Nature's Garden! by Thomas Brooks Thomas Brooks emphasizes the profound nature of repentance, illustrating it as a divine gift that cannot be achieved by human effort alone. He likens the difficulty of turning one'

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