Ezekiel 20:32

KJV

And that which cometh into your mind shall not be at all, that ye say, We will be as the heathen, as the families of the countries, to serve wood and stone.

KJV (with Strong's)

And that which cometh {H5927} into your mind {H7307} shall not be at all, that ye say {H559}, We will be {H1961} as the heathen {H1471}, as the families {H4940} of the countries {H776}, to serve {H8334} wood {H6086} and stone {H68}.

Complete Jewish Bible

and that what you have in mind when you say, "We will be like the Goyim, like the families of the other countries, serving wood and stone," will certainly not happen.

Berean Standard Bible

When you say, ‘Let us be like the nations, like the peoples of the lands, serving wood and stone,’ what you have in mind will never come to pass.

American Standard Version

and that which cometh into your mind shall not be at all, in that ye say, We will be as the nations, as the families of the countries, to serve wood and stone.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 20:32 presents a stern divine declaration from the Lord God to the exiled Israelites, directly confronting their deep-seated desire to abandon their covenant identity and fully assimilate into the pagan practices of the surrounding nations. God emphatically states that their intention to become like the Gentiles, serving lifeless idols of "wood and stone," will be utterly thwarted, underscoring His unwavering sovereignty and commitment to His own holy name, even in the midst of His people's rebellion.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within Ezekiel chapter 20, a chapter dominated by a lengthy historical recounting of Israel's persistent rebellion and idolatry from the time of their exodus from Egypt through their wilderness wanderings and into the Promised Land. God, through Ezekiel, confronts the elders of Israel who have come to inquire of Him, refusing to be consulted due to their idolatrous hearts. The Lord's discourse highlights a pattern of divine grace met with human stubbornness. Specifically, Ezekiel 20:32 directly follows God's declaration that He will bring Israel back into the "wilderness of the peoples" and there execute judgment, implying a purification process. It immediately precedes the promise that He will rule over them with a strong hand and an outstretched arm, preventing their assimilation and enforcing His covenant. This verse thus serves as a direct refutation of Israel's rebellious desire, setting the stage for God's sovereign intervention to preserve their distinct identity.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy of Ezekiel was delivered to the Jewish exiles in Babylon during the sixth century BCE, following the initial deportations of Judah. Living in a foreign land, surrounded by the dominant polytheistic culture of Mesopotamia, the exiles faced immense pressure and temptation to abandon their unique monotheistic faith. The Babylonian pantheon was vast, and their worship involved elaborate rituals and the veneration of numerous gods represented by physical idols made of various materials, including wood and stone. The desire of the exiles to "be as the heathen" was a natural, albeit sinful, response to their subjugated status and the apparent triumph of pagan deities over Yahweh, whose temple lay in ruins. This cultural assimilation was seen as a path to relief from their distinct, often burdensome, identity and the perceived failures of their God.
* **Key Themes:** Ezekiel 20:32 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Ezekiel and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it underscores the **Futility of Human Rebellion Against Divine Will**, asserting God's absolute sovereignty over the intentions of His people. Their desire to assimilate will "not be at all" because God's purpose for them, tied to His own glory, is unyielding. Secondly, it highlights the **Persistent Lure of Idolatry and Assimilation**, a recurring theme throughout Israel's history, from the golden calf in the wilderness ([Exodus 32:1-6](/exodus/32-1 "Exodus 32:1-6 - The Golden Calf")) to the syncretism of the monarchy. This verse pinpoints the exiles' specific temptation to shed their distinct covenant identity and embrace the paganism of their captors. Finally, it emphasizes **God's Unwavering Commitment to His Own Holy Name and Glory**. Even in judgment and purification, God acts not primarily for Israel's sake, but for the sake of His holy name, which had been profaned among the nations by Israel's conduct ([Ezekiel 36:22-23](/ezekiel/36-22 "Ezekiel 36:22-23 - God Acts for His Holy Name")). His prevention of their full assimilation ensures His ultimate redemptive purposes will be fulfilled.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **mind (Hebrew, _rûwach'_):** From H7307, meaning "wind; by resemblance breath, i.e. a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the sky; by resemblance spirit, but only of a rational being (including its expression and functions)." In this context, "mind" refers to the inner thoughts, intentions, or spirit of the people. It signifies their deepest desires and deliberations, revealing the profound spiritual rebellion brewing within their hearts.
* **heathen (Hebrew, _gôwy'_):** From H1471, meaning "a foreign nation; hence, a Gentile; also (figuratively) a troop of animals, or a flight of locusts." This term refers to the non-Israelite nations, often associated with idolatry and a lack of covenant relationship with Yahweh. The Israelites' desire to "be as the heathen" was a profound rejection of their unique status as God's chosen people, set apart for His purposes.
* **serve (Hebrew, _shârath'_):** From H8334, meaning "to attend as a menial or worshipper; figuratively, to contribute to." This word denotes active, devoted service, whether to a master or a deity. When applied to "wood and stone," it highlights the act of worship and allegiance given to idols, emphasizing the complete spiritual devotion the Israelites were contemplating offering to false gods.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And that which cometh into your mind shall not be at all":** This opening clause is a powerful declaration of divine negation and sovereignty. "That which cometh into your mind" refers to the inner thoughts, plans, and intentions of the exiled Israelites. The emphatic phrase "shall not be at all" (Hebrew: *lōʾ tihyeh*) signifies an absolute divine veto. God states unequivocally that whatever rebellious scheme or desire arises in their hearts, particularly the one immediately following, it will not come to fruition; it will be utterly prevented or invalidated by His sovereign will. This highlights God's ultimate control over human destiny, especially as it pertains to His covenant people.
* **"that ye say, We will be as the heathen, as the families of the countries":** This clause specifies the particular rebellious intention that God will thwart. The Israelites were verbalizing (or at least internally assenting to) a desire to abandon their distinct identity as the people of Yahweh. To "be as the heathen" or "as the families of the countries" means to fully assimilate into the surrounding pagan cultures, shedding their unique religious and national identity, and merging indistinguishably with the idolatrous nations. This was a profound rejection of their covenant calling to be a holy nation, distinct from all other peoples.
* **"to serve wood and stone":** This final phrase clearly defines the ultimate expression of their desired assimilation: idol worship. "Wood and stone" is a common biblical idiom for the lifeless, man-made idols of pagan religions, a stark contrast to the living, active God of Israel. Their intention was to exchange the worship of the one true God for the veneration of inanimate objects, a practice explicitly forbidden and condemned throughout the Mosaic Law and prophetic tradition. This reveals the depth of their spiritual apostasy and the perceived futility of their covenant with Yahweh in their state of exile.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 20:32 employs several potent literary devices to convey its divine message. The most prominent is **Divine Negation**, expressed through the emphatic "shall not be at all." This absolute declaration underscores God's unyielding sovereignty and His power to thwart human intentions that run contrary to His ultimate purposes. The phrase "wood and stone" functions as a powerful **Metonymy** and **Symbolism** for idolatry. Instead of explicitly naming various pagan deities, the material components of their idols are used to represent the entire system of false worship, emphasizing their lifelessness, human origin, and utter impotence in contrast to the living God. There is also a clear **Contrast** drawn between the unique, covenantal identity of Israel and the undifferentiated "heathen" or "families of the countries," highlighting Israel's intended distinctiveness which they sought to abandon. Furthermore, the direct address "that ye say" uses **Anthropomorphism** to portray God as intimately aware of and directly responding to the inner thoughts and spoken intentions of His rebellious people.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 20:32 is a profound statement on divine sovereignty and the nature of God's covenant with Israel. Despite Israel's persistent rebellion and their desire to abandon their unique identity, God declares that their ultimate assimilation into paganism will not occur. This is not because of Israel's faithfulness, but because God's own reputation and purposes are at stake. He will not allow His name to be utterly profaned by His chosen people completely abandoning Him for lifeless idols. This verse foreshadows God's future, sovereign intervention to restore Israel, not based on their merit, but on His steadfast love and commitment to His covenant promises, ultimately for His glory. It highlights that God's plan for His people is immutable, even when their hearts are wayward.

* [Psalm 115:4-8](/psalm/115-4 "Psalm 115:4-8 - The Impotence of Idols")
* [Isaiah 44:9-20](/isaiah/44-9 "Isaiah 44:9-20 - The Folly of Idolatry")
* [Jeremiah 32:36-41](/jeremiah/32-36 "Jeremiah 32:36-41 - God's Promise to Restore Israel")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 20:32 serves as a timeless warning and a powerful reminder of God's unwavering sovereignty over our lives and the world. In our contemporary context, the temptation to "be as the heathen" manifests not necessarily as bowing to physical idols of wood and stone, but as conforming to the prevailing values, ideologies, and pursuits of a secular or post-Christian society that often stand in opposition to biblical truth. This could involve prioritizing worldly success, material possessions, social acceptance, or personal autonomy above obedience to God and His Word. The verse calls us to examine our hearts for any desires that contradict God's revealed will or seek to diminish our distinct identity as followers of Christ. It assures us that while our intentions may stray, God's ultimate purposes for His people will prevail, and He will actively work to prevent us from completely abandoning Him. This should inspire both humility regarding our own rebellious tendencies and profound confidence in God's faithfulness to preserve His people and accomplish His redemptive plan.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What are the "wood and stone" idols in my life or culture that tempt me to conform and compromise my faith?**
* **In what ways might my "mind" be contemplating paths or desires that are contrary to God's will for my life?**
* **How does God's declaration that rebellious intentions "shall not be at all" bring both conviction and comfort to my heart?**

### FAQ

**What does "that which cometh into your mind shall not be at all" truly mean?**

Answer: This phrase is a strong divine negation, meaning that the rebellious intention or plan conceived in the minds of the Israelites will be utterly prevented, nullified, or rendered ineffective by God's sovereign power. It's not merely a prediction that their plan will fail, but a declaration that God Himself will actively ensure it does not come to fruition. Despite their deep desire to abandon their covenant relationship and become like the pagan nations, God's ultimate purpose for His people and His commitment to His own holy name will override their rebellious will. This demonstrates God's absolute control over the destiny of His chosen people, ensuring that His redemptive plan will be accomplished regardless of human unfaithfulness. It highlights that God's will, not human will, is ultimately supreme, especially when it concerns His covenant and His glory ([Isaiah 46:10](/isaiah/46-10 "Isaiah 46:10 - God Declares the End from the Beginning")).

**Why was Israel tempted to "serve wood and stone" in exile?**

Answer: During their exile in Babylon, the Israelites were a conquered people living among a dominant, polytheistic culture. They faced immense pressure to assimilate for several reasons. Firstly, their God, Yahweh, seemed to have been defeated, as His temple lay in ruins and His people were in captivity. This led to questions about His power and faithfulness. Secondly, adopting the gods of the victorious Babylonians might have seemed like a pragmatic way to gain favor, alleviate suffering, or simply fit in. Thirdly, their own history was marked by a persistent struggle with idolatry, indicating a deep-seated spiritual inclination to follow the practices of surrounding nations rather than maintain their distinct, often demanding, covenant with Yahweh. Serving "wood and stone" (lifeless idols) represented a complete abandonment of their unique monotheistic identity and a full embrace of the pagan worldview, which they hoped would bring them peace or prosperity in their new environment ([Deuteronomy 4:28](/deuteronomy/4-28 "Deuteronomy 4:28 - Worship of Wood and Stone")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 20:32, with its declaration of God's sovereign prevention of Israel's ultimate apostasy, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in several ways. Israel's desire to "be as the heathen" and "serve wood and stone" represents humanity's inherent bent towards idolatry and rebellion against the true God, a condition from which no one is exempt apart from divine intervention ([Romans 3:23](/romans/3-23 "Romans 3:23 - All Have Sinned")). Christ, as the true Israel and the perfectly obedient Son, perfectly resisted the temptation to assimilate into the world's systems or serve anything other than the Father ([Matthew 4:8-10](/matthew/4-8 "Matthew 4:8-10 - Jesus Resists Temptation")). Furthermore, God's promise that Israel's rebellious intention "shall not be at all" foreshadows the New Covenant, established through Christ's atoning sacrifice, where God writes His law on the hearts of His people, enabling true obedience and preventing ultimate apostasy ([Hebrews 8:10-12](/hebrews/8-10 "Hebrews 8:10-12 - The New Covenant")). Through Christ, believers are not called to assimilate but are made a "chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Chosen People")), distinct from the world and set apart to proclaim His excellencies. The sovereign will of God, which prevented ancient Israel's complete destruction through idolatry, is ultimately fulfilled in Christ, who gathers a people for Himself, purifies them from idolatry, and ensures their perseverance unto eternal life, all for the glory of His name.

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 11:5

And the Spirit of the LORD fell upon me, and said unto me, Speak; Thus saith the LORD; Thus have ye said, O house of Israel: for I know the things that come into your mind, [every one of] them.

Jeremiah 44:17

But we will certainly do whatsoever thing goeth forth out of our own mouth, to burn incense unto the queen of heaven, and to pour out drink offerings unto her, as we have done, we, and our fathers, our kings, and our princes, in the cities of Judah, and in the streets of Jerusalem: for [then] had we plenty of victuals, and were well, and saw no evil.

Deuteronomy 4:28

And there ye shall serve gods, the work of men's hands, wood and stone, which neither see, nor hear, nor eat, nor smell.

Revelation 9:20

And the rest of the men which were not killed by these plagues yet repented not of the works of their hands, that they should not worship devils, and idols of gold, and silver, and brass, and stone, and of wood: which neither can see, nor hear, nor walk:

Psalms 139:2

Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off.

Daniel 5:4

They drank wine, and praised the gods of gold, and of silver, of brass, of iron, of wood, and of stone.

Deuteronomy 28:36

The LORD shall bring thee, and thy king which thou shalt set over thee, unto a nation which neither thou nor thy fathers have known; and there shalt thou serve other gods, wood and stone.