Ezekiel 11:19

KJV

And I will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within you; and I will take the stony heart out of their flesh, and will give them an heart of flesh:

KJV (with Strong's)

And I will give {H5414} them one {H259} heart {H3820}, and I will put {H5414} a new {H2319} spirit {H7307} within {H7130} you; and I will take {H5493} the stony {H68} heart {H3820} out of their flesh {H1320}, and will give {H5414} them an heart {H3820} of flesh {H1320}:

Complete Jewish Bible

and I will give them unity of heart. "I will put a new spirit among you." I will remove from their bodies the hearts of stone and give them hearts of flesh;

Berean Standard Bible

And I will give them singleness of heart and put a new spirit within them; I will remove their heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh,

American Standard Version

And I will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within you; and I will take the stony heart out of their flesh, and will give them a heart of flesh;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 11:19 presents a profound prophetic promise from God to His exiled people, Israel, declaring a future spiritual transformation. Amidst the judgments pronounced against their hardened hearts and idolatry, this verse unveils God's sovereign initiative to replace their unresponsive "stony heart" with a "heart of flesh" and to infuse them with a "new spirit," enabling genuine obedience and a renewed relationship with Him. This divine intervention signifies a radical internal change, moving beyond mere external ritual to a deep, heartfelt responsiveness to God's will, laying the groundwork for their restoration and future faithfulness.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezekiel 11:19 is nestled within a section of Ezekiel's prophecy (chapters 8-11) that vividly depicts the reasons for God's judgment and the impending destruction of Jerusalem and its Temple. Chapters 8-9 detail the abominable idolatry practiced within the Temple precincts, while chapter 10 describes the departure of the glory of the Lord from the Temple, symbolizing God's abandonment of a defiled sanctuary and an unfaithful people. Chapter 11 continues this theme of judgment, particularly against the wicked leaders of Jerusalem. However, amidst these pronouncements of judgment (e.g., [Ezekiel 11:1-12](/ezekiel/11-1 "Ezekiel 11:1-12 - Judgment on Wicked Leaders")), God interjects a crucial promise of hope and future restoration for the remnant of Israel (e.g., [Ezekiel 11:16-20](/ezekiel/11-16 "Ezekiel 11:16-20 - Promise to the Exiles")). Verse 19, therefore, serves as a pivotal turning point, shifting from condemnation to the divine solution for Israel's spiritual malady, emphasizing that true restoration must begin with an internal transformation of the heart.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophet Ezekiel ministered during the Babylonian exile (circa 597-571 BC), a period of immense national trauma and despair for the Jewish people. They had been forcibly removed from their homeland, their Temple was soon to be destroyed, and their covenant relationship with God seemed shattered. Culturally, the people of Israel had repeatedly fallen into idolatry and disobedience, mirroring the practices of the surrounding pagan nations, despite God's covenant warnings. Their "stony hearts" reflected a deep-seated spiritual insensitivity and rebellion against the Mosaic Law. The promise of a "new heart" and "new spirit" in this context was not merely a spiritual platitude but a radical, counter-cultural promise of divine intervention necessary to reverse centuries of spiritual decline and to enable a people, who had proven incapable of sustained faithfulness, to finally walk in God's ways. This transformation was essential for their future return to the land and the re-establishment of a pure worship.

* **Key Themes:** Ezekiel 11:19 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Ezekiel and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Initiative**. The repeated "I will" underscores that this profound transformation is entirely God's work, not something humanity can achieve through self-effort. Secondly, it addresses the pervasive theme of **Human Depravity and the Need for Spiritual Regeneration**. The "stony heart" represents humanity's inherent rebellion and inability to obey God, a condition that only God can remedy. This concept is foundational to understanding the need for a "new spirit" and a "heart of flesh," which points towards **Spiritual Renewal and the New Covenant**. This promise anticipates the greater spiritual renewal described later in [Ezekiel 36:26-27](/ezekiel/36-26 "Ezekiel 36:26-27 - The New Heart and Spirit"), where the role of God's Spirit in empowering obedience is made explicit. Finally, the promise of "one heart" subtly introduces the theme of **Unity and Restoration**, suggesting a future where God's people are unified in their devotion and obedience, in stark contrast to the fractured and rebellious state that led to their exile.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **heart (Hebrew, _lêb'_):** This term, occurring three times in the verse, is central. Derived from H3820, _lêb_ signifies not merely the physical organ but, figuratively and very widely, the seat of feelings, will, intellect, and the very core or center of a person. In this context, it represents the inner disposition, the moral and spiritual essence of an individual. A "stony heart" (H68, _ʼeben_) is one that is hard, unresponsive, and insensitive to God's commands and Spirit, akin to a literal stone—cold, unyielding, and lifeless. Conversely, a "heart of flesh" (H1320, _bâsâr_) denotes a heart that is tender, receptive, sensitive, and capable of feeling, responding, and obeying God, much like living tissue. The transformation promised is thus a radical change in the very core of one's being, from spiritual death to spiritual life and responsiveness.
* **new (Hebrew, _châdâsh'_):** From H2319, _châdâsh_ means "fresh" or "new." When applied to the "spirit" (H7307, _rûwach_), it emphasizes a complete qualitative change, not merely a renovation of the old but a fresh, divine infusion. This "new spirit" is not simply a renewed human disposition but a divine enablement, a fresh breath of God's life that empowers the "heart of flesh" to live in accordance with God's will. It implies a radical departure from the old, corrupted spiritual state.
* **give (Hebrew, _nâthan'_):** From H5414, _nâthan_ is a primitive root meaning "to give," used with great latitude of application. Its repeated use ("I will give... I will put... I will give") underscores the divine initiative and sovereignty in this transformation. This spiritual renewal is not earned or achieved by human effort but is a gracious, sovereign gift from God. It highlights God's active role in bringing about spiritual regeneration, emphasizing His power to effect change where human will has failed.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And I will give them one heart":** This opening clause immediately establishes God's sovereign initiative ("I will give"). The promise of "one heart" speaks to both internal unity within the individual (a singular focus on God, undivided devotion) and potential corporate unity among the people of Israel, in contrast to their past fractured loyalties and divided hearts that led to idolatry and disobedience. It signifies a unified purpose and devotion towards God.
* **"and I will put a new spirit within you":** Following the promise of a unified heart, God pledges to infuse a "new spirit." This "new spirit" is a divine enablement, a fresh breath of life and spiritual vitality from God Himself. It implies a qualitative change in their inner disposition, empowering them to live in a way that aligns with God's will, replacing their former rebellious and unresponsive spirit. The "within you" emphasizes the internal, personal nature of this transformation.
* **"and I will take the stony heart out of their flesh":** This phrase vividly describes the removal of the impediment to spiritual responsiveness. The "stony heart" symbolizes insensitivity, stubbornness, and an inability to respond to God's commands or His love—a heart hardened by sin and unbelief. God promises to supernaturally remove this hardened core, which is deeply embedded "out of their flesh," signifying a radical extraction of their inherent rebellion and unresponsiveness.
* **"and will give them an heart of flesh":** This final clause presents the positive outcome of the divine surgery. In place of the removed "stony heart," God will implant a "heart of flesh." This signifies a heart that is tender, receptive, sensitive, and capable of feeling, responding, and obeying God. It is a heart that can be moved to remorse, genuine love, and willing obedience, enabling a true and intimate relationship with their Creator.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 11:19 is rich in **Symbolism** and **Metaphor**, central to its powerful message. The most prominent is the contrast between the "**stony heart**" and the "**heart of flesh**." The "stony heart" is a powerful metaphor for spiritual insensitivity, stubbornness, and an inability to respond to God's commands, much like a literal stone is hard, cold, and lifeless. It symbolizes the hardened, rebellious nature of humanity in its fallen state. Conversely, the "heart of flesh" symbolizes a heart that is tender, receptive, pliable, and responsive to divine instruction, capable of feeling, empathy, and obedience, akin to living, warm tissue. This vivid imagery underscores the radical, qualitative change God promises. The "new spirit" also functions as **Symbolism**, representing a fresh, divine infusion of life and empowerment, often understood as the work of the Holy Spirit, enabling the transformed heart to walk in God's ways. The repeated phrase "I will" functions as **Anaphora**, emphasizing God's sovereign initiative and the certainty of His promise, highlighting that this transformation is entirely His work and not dependent on human effort.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 11:19 is a cornerstone Old Testament prophecy concerning spiritual regeneration, anticipating the radical internal transformation necessary for true covenant faithfulness. It highlights humanity's inherent inability to obey God from a truly willing heart and God's sovereign grace in providing the solution. This promise of a "new heart" and "new spirit" lays the theological groundwork for the New Covenant, where God's law would be inscribed not on stone tablets, but on the very hearts of His people, enabling an inward obedience driven by divine empowerment. It underscores that salvation involves not just forgiveness of sins, but a profound change in one's nature, making one capable of loving and serving God authentically.

* [Jeremiah 31:33](/jeremiah/31-33 "Jeremiah 31:33 - The New Covenant Written on Hearts")
* [Ezekiel 36:26-27](/ezekiel/36-26 "Ezekiel 36:26-27 - God Gives a New Heart and Spirit")
* [Psalm 51:10](/psalms/51-10 "Psalm 51:10 - A Prayer for a Clean Heart and Steadfast Spirit")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 11:19 offers immense hope and profound insight for believers today. It reminds us that our greatest spiritual need is not merely behavioral modification, but a radical, internal transformation of the heart. If we find ourselves struggling with spiritual apathy, stubbornness, or a lack of responsiveness to God's Word and Spirit, this verse assures us that God desires and is able to perform a divine "heart transplant." It encourages us to acknowledge our spiritual inability and to humbly ask God to replace our "stony heart" with a "heart of flesh," sensitive to His voice and willing to obey. This promise also highlights the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit, who indwells believers and empowers us to live out the new nature, enabling us to walk in God's ways and fulfill His purposes, not out of obligation, but out of a transformed heart of love and obedience. It calls us to daily surrender and reliance on God's power for continuous spiritual renewal.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you recognize a "stony heart"—a lack of sensitivity or responsiveness to God's will?**
* **How does the promise of God's sovereign "I will" encourage you when you feel incapable of spiritual change on your own?**
* **What practical steps can you take to cultivate a "heart of flesh" that is more receptive to the Holy Spirit's leading?**
* **How does the concept of a "new spirit" relate to your daily walk with God and your ability to obey Him?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the "stony heart" versus the "heart of flesh"?**

Answer: The "stony heart" symbolizes humanity's natural, fallen state of spiritual insensitivity, stubbornness, and rebellion against God. It is unresponsive to divine commands and love, much like a literal stone is hard, cold, and lifeless. This represents the core issue of human depravity that led to Israel's exile and their inability to keep God's covenant. In contrast, the "heart of flesh" symbolizes a divinely transformed heart that is tender, receptive, pliable, and responsive to God's will. It is capable of feeling remorse, exercising genuine love, and willingly obeying God. This imagery underscores the radical, supernatural change God promises to effect within His people, enabling a true and intimate relationship with Him, as also promised in [Ezekiel 36:26](/ezekiel/36-26 "Ezekiel 36:26 - A New Heart and a New Spirit").

**How does this verse relate to the concept of the New Covenant?**

Answer: Ezekiel 11:19 is a foundational Old Testament prophecy that anticipates the New Covenant, which is more fully articulated in [Jeremiah 31:31-34](/jeremiah/31-31 "Jeremiah 31:31-34 - The New Covenant"). In the Old Covenant, God's law was written on tablets of stone, and the people often failed to obey due to their hardened hearts. This verse, along with [Ezekiel 36:26-27](/ezekiel/36-26 "Ezekiel 36:26-27 - God Gives a New Heart and Spirit"), promises a future where God Himself would provide an internal transformation—a "new heart" and "new spirit"—that would enable His people to truly know Him and obey His laws from within. This internal change is the hallmark of the New Covenant, where God's law is written on the heart, leading to genuine, Spirit-empowered obedience and a deeper relationship with God, fulfilled in Christ.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 11:19 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ and the New Covenant inaugurated through His atoning work. The "stony heart" of humanity, incapable of truly loving or obeying God, is precisely what Jesus came to address. His death on the cross and resurrection did not merely offer forgiveness for sins, but also made possible the radical internal transformation promised by the prophets. Through faith in Christ, believers receive the "new spirit" promised here, which is the Holy Spirit, who indwells them and empowers them to live with a "heart of flesh." As [2 Corinthians 5:17](/2_corinthians/5-17 "2 Corinthians 5:17 - New Creation in Christ") declares, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new." This "new creation" is the reality of the transformed heart and spirit Ezekiel foresaw. Jesus Himself spoke of the necessity of being "born again" or "born of the Spirit" in [John 3:5-8](/john/3-5 "John 3:5-8 - Born of Water and the Spirit"), echoing the need for this divine spiritual renewal. The "one heart" that God promises also points to the unity found in the body of Christ, where believers from all nations are united by the Spirit, sharing a common devotion to God, fulfilling the prophetic vision of a people truly set apart for Him.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Ezekiel 36:26

A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.

Ezekiel 36:27

And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do [them].

Jeremiah 31:33

But this [shall be] the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the LORD, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people.

Psalms 51:10

Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.

Jeremiah 32:39

And I will give them one heart, and one way, that they may fear me for ever, for the good of them, and of their children after them:

Jeremiah 32:40

And I will make an everlasting covenant with them, that I will not turn away from them, to do them good; but I will put my fear in their hearts, that they shall not depart from me.

Jeremiah 24:7

And I will give them an heart to know me, that I [am] the LORD: and they shall be my people, and I will be their God: for they shall return unto me with their whole heart.