Ezekiel 11:4

KJV

Therefore prophesy against them, prophesy, O son of man.

KJV (with Strong's)

Therefore prophesy {H5012} against them, prophesy {H5012}, O son {H1121} of man {H120}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Therefore prophesy against them, human being, prophesy!"

Berean Standard Bible

Therefore prophesy against them; prophesy, O son of man!”

American Standard Version

Therefore prophesy against them, prophesy, O son of man.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 11:4 presents a profound and urgent divine imperative from the Lord to the prophet Ezekiel, commanding him to deliver a message of judgment against the corrupt leaders and inhabitants of Jerusalem. This verse underscores the prophet's indispensable role as God's direct mouthpiece, tasked with fearlessly proclaiming divine truth and accountability, irrespective of the message's severity or the audience's resistance. It encapsulates the essence of prophetic ministry: unwavering obedience to God's call to speak His word, even when that word is one of condemnation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within a pivotal vision granted to Ezekiel, commencing in [Ezekiel 8](/ezekiel/8 "Ezekiel 8 - The Abominations in Jerusalem") and continuing through [Ezekiel 11](/ezekiel/11 "Ezekiel 11 - Judgment and Restoration"). The prophet is supernaturally transported by the Spirit to Jerusalem, where he witnesses the rampant idolatry, spiritual defilement, and profound injustice permeating the Temple and the city's leadership. The preceding chapters meticulously detail the abominations committed by the elders and women, culminating in the tragic depiction of God's glory progressively departing from the Temple, a stark symbol of impending judgment and divine abandonment (compare [Ezekiel 10:18](/ezekiel/10-18 "Ezekiel 10:18 - The Glory of the Lord Departs from the Threshold") and [Ezekiel 11:23](/ezekiel/11-23 "Ezekiel 11:23 - The Glory of the Lord Departs the City")). The specific recipients of this prophecy, "them," refer directly to the twenty-five men whom Ezekiel saw at the temple gate, described in [Ezekiel 11:2](/ezekiel/11-2 "Ezekiel 11:2 - Wicked Counsel in Jerusalem") as "devising mischief and giving wicked counsel in this city," symbolizing the core of Judah's corrupt leadership.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ezekiel prophesied during a tumultuous period in Judah's history, specifically during the Babylonian exile. The first wave of exiles, including Ezekiel, had already been deported to Babylon in 597 BC, while a significant portion of the population, including the corrupt leadership, remained in Jerusalem. These remaining inhabitants often harbored a false sense of security, believing Jerusalem to be impregnable and themselves safe, as illustrated by their boast in [Ezekiel 11:3](/ezekiel/11-3 "Ezekiel 11:3 - The Pot and the Flesh Metaphor") that the city was "the cauldron, and we be the flesh." Culturally, prophets in ancient Israel served as God's direct messengers, often challenging the status quo, confronting sin, and calling the nation back to covenant faithfulness. Their messages were frequently unpopular and dangerous, placing the prophets themselves in precarious positions, yet their divine mandate demanded unwavering proclamation of truth, regardless of personal cost.
* **Key Themes:** Ezekiel 11:4 powerfully articulates several enduring themes central to the book of Ezekiel and biblical theology. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Command and Prophetic Authority**. The emphatic repetition of "prophesy, prophesy" is not merely a stylistic choice but a forceful declaration of God's absolute authority and the non-negotiable nature of His command. Ezekiel is not offering advice or opinion but is acting as a direct conduit for the Almighty's word, emphasizing that the message originates solely from God. Secondly, the phrase "prophesy against them" highlights the theme of **Judgment and Accountability**. The prophecy is not one of comfort or peace but of divine indictment against the spiritual rebellion, idolatry, and injustice of Jerusalem's leaders. It reiterates God's unwavering commitment to justice and His holding both individuals and nations accountable for their actions and spiritual state. Lastly, the verse implicitly stresses the theme of **The Prophet's Obedience**. Despite the evident danger and unpopularity of delivering such a condemnatory message to powerful figures, Ezekiel's role as "son of man" demands complete faithfulness. His obedience is paramount, serving as a model for all who are called to deliver God's truth, even when it is difficult or confronts entrenched sin.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Prophesy (Hebrew, _nâbâ'_):** From H5012, this primitive root means "to prophesy, i.e., speak (or sing) by inspiration (in prediction or simple discourse)." It conveys the idea of bubbling forth or pouring out a message under divine influence, often implying a fervent and authoritative utterance. The repetition of this word in the verse intensifies the command, emphasizing the urgency and absolute necessity of Ezekiel's immediate and forceful declaration of God's word.
* **Son (Hebrew, _bên'_):** From H1121, this word refers to a "son" in the widest sense, including literal and figurative relationships. In the phrase "son of man," it highlights Ezekiel's humanity and mortality, contrasting him with the divine speaker. It emphasizes his representative role as a human messenger sent to a human audience.
* **Man (Hebrew, _ʼâdâm'_):** From H120, this term denotes a "human being" (an individual or the species, mankind). When combined with "son" to form "son of man," it further underscores Ezekiel's shared humanity with those to whom he prophesies. It grounds his prophetic office in his human nature, making him relatable yet distinct as God's chosen vessel.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Therefore prophesy against them,"**: This opening phrase establishes the immediate context and the imperative nature of the command. The "therefore" links directly to the preceding verses (Ezekiel 11:1-3), where Ezekiel witnesses the wicked counsel and false security of the leaders in Jerusalem. The command is not a general one but specifically directed "against them," indicating a message of condemnation and judgment aimed at those who have defied God.
* **"prophesy,"**: The repetition of the imperative "prophesy" serves as a powerful rhetorical device. It underscores the urgency, solemnity, and non-negotiable nature of God's command. It is a divine double-emphasis, demanding immediate and unwavering obedience from Ezekiel, highlighting the weight and authority of the message to be delivered.
* **"O son of man."**: This recurring divine address to Ezekiel throughout the book (appearing over 90 times) serves multiple purposes. It constantly reminds Ezekiel of his humanity and mortality in the face of God's infinite power and holiness. Simultaneously, it emphasizes his unique role as a human representative, a messenger from God to humanity, bridging the divine and the earthly realms. It also sets him apart as the specific individual chosen for this daunting task.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 11:4 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message. The most prominent is **Repetition**, specifically the doubling of the imperative "prophesy." This rhetorical choice serves to intensify the command, underscoring its urgency, divine authority, and the absolute necessity for Ezekiel's immediate obedience. It creates a sense of gravitas and an inescapable mandate. Another key device is **Direct Address**, seen in the consistent appellation "O son of man." This form of address not only personalizes God's communication with Ezekiel but also highlights the prophet's humanity and mortality in stark contrast to the divine speaker. It establishes a unique relationship between God and His messenger, while also emphasizing Ezekiel's representative role as a human being speaking to other human beings. Furthermore, the verse is saturated with **Imperative Mood**, as demonstrated by the repeated command "prophesy." This grammatical mood directly expresses a command, instruction, or plea, leaving no ambiguity about the divine will and Ezekiel's required action. The use of "Therefore" at the beginning also functions as a **Transitional Marker**, linking the command directly to the preceding narrative of the leaders' wickedness and the impending judgment, thereby providing logical cohesion and emphasizing divine consequence.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 11:4 stands as a powerful testament to the nature of divine revelation and the demanding call of prophetic ministry. It reveals a God who is not passive in the face of sin but actively intervenes in human history, holding individuals and nations accountable through His chosen messengers. The command to "prophesy against them" underscores God's unwavering commitment to justice and His willingness to expose and condemn wickedness, even among His own people. This verse also highlights the courage and obedience required of those called to speak God's truth, often in hostile environments. Ezekiel's role as "son of man" emphasizes that God uses human instruments, flawed yet faithful, to communicate His sovereign will and purposes to a fallen world.

* [Jeremiah 1:7](/jeremiah/1-7 "Jeremiah 1:7 - God's Call to Jeremiah"): "But the Lord said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak."
* [Deuteronomy 18:18](/deuteronomy/18-18 "Deuteronomy 18:18 - A Prophet Like Moses"): "I will raise them up a Prophet from among their brethren, like unto thee, and will put my words in his mouth; and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command him."
* [Isaiah 58:1](/isaiah/58-1 "Isaiah 58:1 - Cry Aloud, Spare Not"): "Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and shew my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 11:4 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers, challenging us to consider our own roles in speaking God's truth in a world that often resists it. Just as Ezekiel was called to confront the spiritual decay and false security of his generation, we are similarly called to be discerning and courageous in identifying and addressing sin, both within the church and in broader society. This does not always mean public proclamation from a pulpit; it can involve advocating for justice, speaking truth in personal relationships, or living a life that reflects God's righteousness, thereby challenging prevailing norms. The urgency of God's command to Ezekiel reminds us that divine truth is not to be withheld or watered down for convenience or popularity. Our obedience to God's specific commands, however difficult or unpopular, is paramount, requiring a deep reliance on the Holy Spirit for courage and wisdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life or community might God be calling me to "prophesy" or speak a difficult truth, even if it is unpopular?**
* **How can I cultivate the courage and faithfulness of Ezekiel to obey God's commands, especially when the path is challenging or requires personal sacrifice?**
* **What false senses of security or spiritual complacency might I or my community be clinging to that God might be calling me to confront with His truth?**

### FAQ
**Why does God repeat the command "prophesy" in this verse?**

Answer: The repetition of "prophesy, prophesy" (Hebrew: *nâbâ'*) serves as an emphatic divine imperative, underscoring the extreme urgency, solemnity, and non-negotiable nature of God's command to Ezekiel. It's a rhetorical device to highlight the absolute authority of the message and the immediate necessity for Ezekiel's unwavering obedience. This doubling emphasizes that the word is not Ezekiel's own, but God's direct, powerful, and unalterable declaration, demanding an immediate and forceful utterance. It conveys a sense of divine impatience with the wickedness being addressed and the critical importance of the prophet's role in delivering this specific message of judgment against the corrupt leaders in Jerusalem, as detailed in [Ezekiel 11:2](/ezekiel/11-2 "Ezekiel 11:2 - Wicked Counsel in Jerusalem").

**What is the significance of God addressing Ezekiel as "O son of man"?**

Answer: The title "son of man" (Hebrew: *ben-adam*) is God's consistent form of address to Ezekiel throughout the book, appearing over ninety times. Its significance is multifaceted. Firstly, it constantly reminds Ezekiel of his humanity and mortality, contrasting him with the divine, omnipotent God who speaks to him. This emphasizes the vast gulf between the Creator and His creature, even one chosen for such a high calling. Secondly, it highlights Ezekiel's representative role: he is a human messenger sent to a human audience. He shares their nature, making him relatable, yet he is uniquely chosen by God to speak divine truth to his fellow human beings. This title also foreshadows the ultimate "Son of Man" in the New Testament, Jesus Christ, who perfectly embodies humanity while also being fully divine, as seen in passages like [Matthew 8:20](/matthew/8-20 "Matthew 8:20 - The Son of Man Has Nowhere to Lay His Head").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 11:4, with its urgent command for the prophet to speak God's word of judgment, finds its ultimate fulfillment and transformation in the person and ministry of Jesus Christ. While Ezekiel was a prophet called to speak *against* a rebellious people, Jesus is the Prophet par excellence, the very embodiment of God's Word made flesh ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). He is the one through whom God has definitively spoken in these last days ([Hebrews 1:1-2](/hebrews/1-1-2 "Hebrews 1:1-2 - God Speaks Through His Son")). Jesus, often referring to Himself as the "Son of Man," perfectly fulfilled the human representative role that Ezekiel prefigured, yet with divine authority that far surpassed any Old Testament prophet. He fearlessly confronted the spiritual corruption and hypocrisy of the religious leaders of His day ([Matthew 23](/matthew/23 "Matthew 23 - Jesus Denounces the Scribes and Pharisees")), speaking truth with unparalleled power and love. Unlike Ezekiel, whose prophecy was primarily one of impending judgment, Jesus's ultimate "prophecy" was the announcement and inauguration of the Kingdom of God, culminating in His own sacrificial death and resurrection, which provided the means for humanity's reconciliation with God. He perfectly obeyed the Father's will, even unto death, embodying the ultimate faithfulness that God demanded of His prophets ([John 12:49-50](/john/12-49-50 "John 12:49-50 - Jesus Speaks God's Words")). Thus, Ezekiel's call to "prophesy" points forward to Christ, the true and final Prophet, who not only spoke God's word but *is* God's Word, and through whom all judgment and salvation are ultimately administered.

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 20:46

Son of man, set thy face toward the south, and drop [thy word] toward the south, and prophesy against the forest of the south field;

Ezekiel 20:47

And say to the forest of the south, Hear the word of the LORD; Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I will kindle a fire in thee, and it shall devour every green tree in thee, and every dry tree: the flaming flame shall not be quenched, and all faces from the south to the north shall be burned therein.

Ezekiel 3:17

Son of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel: therefore hear the word at my mouth, and give them warning from me.

Ezekiel 3:21

Nevertheless if thou warn the righteous [man], that the righteous sin not, and he doth not sin, he shall surely live, because he is warned; also thou hast delivered thy soul.

Isaiah 58:1

¶ Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and shew my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins.

Hosea 8:1

¶ [Set] the trumpet to thy mouth. [He shall come] as an eagle against the house of the LORD, because they have transgressed my covenant, and trespassed against my law.

Ezekiel 3:2

So I opened my mouth, and he caused me to eat that roll.