Ezekiel 21:27

KJV

I will overturn, overturn, overturn, it: and it shall be no [more], until he come whose right it is; and I will give it [him].

KJV (with Strong's)

I will overturn {H5754}, overturn {H5754}, overturn {H5754}, it: and it shall be {H7760} no more, until he come {H935} whose right {H4941} it is; and I will give {H5414} it him.

Complete Jewish Bible

Ruin! Ruin! I will leave it a ruin such as there has never been, and it will stay that way until the rightful ruler comes, and I give it to him.'

Berean Standard Bible

A ruin, a ruin, I will make it a ruin! And it will not be restored until the arrival of Him to whom it belongs, to whom I have assigned the right of judgment.’

American Standard Version

I will overturn, overturn, overturn it: this also shall be no more, until he come whose right it is; and I will give it him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 21:27 stands as a profound prophetic declaration announcing the imminent and complete overthrow of the Davidic monarchy in Judah, symbolized by the removal of the crown and diadem. This divine judgment, expressed through a powerful threefold repetition, signifies the temporary cessation of the earthly Davidic kingship due to the nation's and its leaders' unfaithfulness. However, amidst this pronouncement of judgment, the verse pivots to a glorious future hope, promising that the royal authority will remain "no more, until he come whose right it is," pointing unequivocally to the ultimate, rightful King—the Messiah—to whom God Himself will bestow the kingdom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a series of prophecies in Ezekiel 21, often referred to as the "sword song" or "prophecy against Jerusalem." The chapter opens with a vivid metaphor of God's drawn sword being unsheathed against Israel and Judah, signifying impending judgment and destruction. Specifically, [Ezekiel 21:25-27](/ezekiel/21-25-27 "Ezekiel 21:25-27 - Judgment on the Prince of Israel") directly addresses Zedekiah, the last king of Judah, as the "profane and wicked prince of Israel," whose day of final punishment has arrived. The command to "remove the diadem, and take off the crown" in [Ezekiel 21:26](/ezekiel/21-26 "Ezekiel 21:26 - Removal of Crown and Diadem") directly precedes and is foundational to the "overturn" motif in verse 27, emphasizing the stripping away of royal authority from Zedekiah and, by extension, the entire Davidic line for a period. This passage serves as a climactic declaration of the end of an era, preparing the ground for the subsequent narrative of Jerusalem's fall and the Babylonian exile.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy of Ezekiel 21:27 was delivered during the Babylonian exile, likely in the period leading up to or shortly after the final destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BC. The people of Judah had already experienced two deportations, and King Zedekiah, a puppet king installed by Babylon, had rebelled, leading to Nebuchadnezzar's final siege. For the people of Judah, the Davidic monarchy was not merely a political institution but a cornerstone of their national and theological identity, rooted in God's eternal covenant with David (cf. [2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12-16 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - God's Covenant with David")). The idea of the Davidic throne being overturned was therefore a catastrophic blow, signaling the collapse of their world order and challenging their understanding of God's faithfulness. The cultural understanding of kingship as divinely ordained made this pronouncement of divine removal particularly potent and terrifying, as it implied God Himself was dismantling what He had established.
* **Key Themes:** Ezekiel 21:27 powerfully contributes to several key themes prevalent in the book of Ezekiel and broader prophetic literature. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Sovereignty and Judgment**, demonstrating God's absolute control over earthly rulers and nations, even His chosen people, when they defy His covenant. The triple "overturn" emphasizes the certainty and completeness of this divine intervention. Secondly, it highlights the **Suspension of the Davidic Monarchy**, a dramatic and unprecedented event that shattered the immediate expectations of an unbroken kingly line, serving as a stark consequence of Judah's idolatry and unrighteousness, as seen in the judgment against the "profane and wicked prince" in [Ezekiel 21:25](/ezekiel/21-25 "Ezekiel 21:25 - Judgment on the Prince"). Lastly, and most significantly, the verse introduces a profound theme of **Messianic Hope**. Despite the immediate despair, the promise of a future ruler "whose right it is" transforms the judgment into a forward-looking prophecy, assuring the ultimate fulfillment of God's covenant promises through a legitimate, divinely appointed King. This theme of future restoration and righteous leadership is central to Ezekiel's broader message of hope beyond exile, echoing similar prophecies found in [Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6-7 "Isaiah 9:6-7 - Prophecy of the Messiah's Reign") and [Jeremiah 23:5-6](/jeremiah/23-5-6 "Jeremiah 23:5-6 - The Righteous Branch").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Overturn (Hebrew, _ʻavvâh'_):** From H5754, this intensive form of the root implies an act of perversion, twisting, or overturning. Its threefold repetition ("overturn, overturn, overturn") in the verse dramatically emphasizes the absolute certainty, completeness, and perhaps successive nature of the divine judgment. It signifies a radical reversal and dismantling of the existing order, specifically the Davidic monarchy, indicating that its current state was so corrupt or "perverted" that it necessitated a total divine upheaval.
* **Right (Hebrew, _mishpâṭ'_):** From H4941, this term is rich with meaning, encompassing "judgment," "justice," "right," "ordinance," and "privilege." In the context of "whose right it is," it refers to the legitimate, inherent, and divinely sanctioned claim to the throne. It's not merely a legal entitlement but a moral and theological one, indicating that the coming ruler will possess true justice and divine authority, unlike the corrupt kings who preceded him. This word highlights the legitimacy and righteousness of the future King, to whom the "verdict" or "right" belongs.
* **Give (Hebrew, _nâthan'_):** From H5414, this primitive root is broadly used for "to give," "to put," "to make," or "to bestow." In this verse, "and I will give it [him]," it signifies God's active and sovereign act of bestowing the overturned kingdom and its rightful authority upon the one who has the legitimate claim. This emphasizes that the future king's reign will not be established by human effort or political maneuvering, but by direct divine appointment and transfer of power, as God "gives" or "assigns" the kingdom.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"I will overturn, overturn, overturn, it:"** This opening clause is a powerful declaration of God's absolute sovereignty and His active intervention in human affairs. The triple repetition of "overturn" (Hebrew: `ʻavvâh`) is a rhetorical device emphasizing the certainty, totality, and perhaps the successive nature of the judgment. It signifies a complete reversal and dismantling of the existing political and royal order in Judah, specifically the removal of the Davidic crown and diadem mentioned in the preceding verse. This is a divine act of judgment against the corrupt leadership and the unfaithful nation, highlighting God's determination to bring about a radical change.
* **"and it shall be no [more],"** This phrase indicates the temporary cessation or suspension of the Davidic monarchy in its current form. Following the overturning, the earthly kingship from David's line would cease to function, signifying the end of an era and the devastating consequence of Judah's rebellion. This was a shocking pronouncement for a people who believed in the eternal nature of the Davidic covenant, implying a period of significant discontinuity in their national identity.
* **"until he come whose right it is;"** This pivotal clause introduces a profound element of hope and future expectation. Despite the immediate judgment and cessation of the monarchy, it is not an absolute end. The phrase "until he come" points to a specific future individual. "Whose right it is" (Hebrew: `asher lo ha-mishpâṭ`) literally means "to whom the judgment/right belongs," highlighting the legitimate, inherent, and divinely appointed claim of this coming figure to the throne. This is a clear messianic prophecy, looking beyond the immediate desolation to a future, righteous King who will embody true justice and authority.
* **"and I will give it [him]."** This concluding declaration reaffirms God's active role in the establishment of the future king's reign. It is God Himself who will bestow the kingdom and its authority upon the rightful heir. This emphasizes that the coming of the Messiah and the establishment of His kingdom will be a divine act, not a human achievement, ensuring its legitimacy, power, and permanence. God's sovereign "giving" underscores His ultimate control over the destiny of nations and the fulfillment of His promises.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 21:27 is rich with literary artistry that enhances its prophetic message. The most striking device is **Repetition**, specifically the threefold reiteration of "overturn, overturn, overturn." This emphatic repetition (known as epizeuxis) serves to underscore the absolute certainty, thoroughness, and irreversible nature of God's impending judgment on the Davidic monarchy. It creates a sense of divine resolve and an overwhelming force that will dismantle the existing order. Furthermore, the verse employs **Symbolism**, where the "crown" and "diadem" (mentioned in the preceding verse, [Ezekiel 21:26](/ezekiel/21-26 "Ezekiel 21:26 - Removal of Crown and Diadem")) symbolize the royal authority and kingship itself. The overturning of "it" (referring to the crown/kingdom) is a symbolic act of dethronement and the suspension of the Davidic line. The entire verse functions as a powerful **Prophecy**, foretelling both immediate historical events (the fall of Zedekiah and the end of the monarchy) and a distant future event (the coming of the Messiah). The abrupt shift from judgment to hope, marked by the word "until," creates a profound sense of **Antithesis** or contrast, highlighting God's dual nature as both judge and covenant-keeper.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 21:27 stands as a powerful testament to God's unwavering sovereignty over all earthly powers and His faithfulness to His covenant promises, even amidst judgment. The overturning of the Davidic monarchy, a seemingly devastating blow to God's covenant with David (cf. [2 Samuel 7:16](/2_samuel/7-16 "2 Samuel 7:16 - God's Covenant with David")), is revealed not as a revocation but a temporary suspension, paving the way for a greater, more perfect fulfillment. This verse highlights that human unfaithfulness can temporarily hinder the *earthly manifestation* of God's promises, but it cannot ultimately thwart His divine plan. The promise of "he whose right it is" underscores the biblical theme of a coming Messiah who will embody perfect justice and rightful authority, ultimately establishing an eternal kingdom that will supersede all earthly dominions. This divine intervention ensures that God's ultimate purpose for a righteous king will be realized, not through human succession, but through divine appointment.

* [2 Samuel 7:16](/2_samuel/7-16 "2 Samuel 7:16 - God's Covenant with David")
* [Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6-7 "Isaiah 9:6-7 - Prophecy of the Messiah's Reign")
* [Daniel 2:44](/daniel/2-44 "Daniel 2:44 - God's Eternal Kingdom")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 21:27 offers profound comfort and challenge to believers today. In a world where political systems rise and fall, and human leaders often disappoint or fail, this verse reminds us that God remains utterly sovereign over all earthly affairs. No human power, however strong or entrenched, can ultimately stand against His will or thwart His eternal purposes. For us, this means placing our ultimate hope and trust not in fleeting political ideologies or fallible human leaders, but in the steadfast and righteous reign of God. The promise that the kingdom will be given to "him whose right it is" directs our gaze firmly to Jesus Christ, the true and eternal King. This truth should inspire us to live with confident hope, knowing that even in times of chaos or perceived decline, God is working out His perfect plan, culminating in the full establishment of His just and everlasting kingdom. It also calls us to humility, recognizing that God's judgment is real and that He holds all, including those in authority, accountable for their actions, urging us to pursue righteousness and justice in our own spheres of influence.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the triple repetition of "overturn" impact your understanding of God's sovereignty and judgment?**
* **In what ways might we be tempted to place our hope in earthly systems or leaders rather than in God's ultimate reign?**
* **How does the promise of "he whose right it is" bring you comfort and hope amidst the uncertainties of the world?**
* **What practical steps can you take to align your life more fully with the values and principles of the coming King's righteous kingdom?**

### FAQ
**Why does God say "overturn, overturn, overturn" three times?**

Answer: The triple repetition of "overturn" (Hebrew: `ʻavvâh`) is a powerful literary device used to emphasize the absolute certainty, completeness, and thoroughness of God's judgment. It signifies that the overturning of the Davidic monarchy and the existing order will be undeniable and irreversible in its immediate context. This emphatic declaration underscores divine resolve and the devastating nature of the judgment, leaving no doubt about the finality of the current king's dethronement and the suspension of the Davidic line.

**Who is "he whose right it is"?**

Answer: This phrase is a clear messianic prophecy, referring to the future, legitimate, and divinely appointed King who will inherit the throne of David. While the immediate Davidic line was being overturned due to unfaithfulness, God promised that the kingship would not cease forever, but would be restored in a righteous ruler. Christian theology universally identifies this figure as Jesus Christ, the Messiah, who is the rightful heir to David's throne and whose kingdom is eternal and just. The phrase "whose right it is" (Hebrew: `asher lo ha-mishpâṭ`) emphasizes His inherent and divine claim to kingship, based on justice and righteousness, unlike the corrupt kings who preceded Him.

**How does this verse relate to the Davidic covenant?**

Answer: Ezekiel 21:27 addresses the Davidic covenant (cf. [2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12-16 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - God's Covenant with David")) in a nuanced way. While the covenant promised an eternal dynasty for David, the unfaithfulness of his descendants, particularly King Zedekiah, led to a temporary suspension of the earthly monarchy. This verse clarifies that God's promise was not revoked, but its immediate manifestation was interrupted. The "overturning" is a judgment on the *corrupt expression* of the covenant, not on the covenant itself. The promise of "he whose right it is" demonstrates God's faithfulness to ultimately fulfill His covenant through a righteous descendant of David, ensuring the eternal nature of the kingship through the Messiah, who will perfectly embody the "right" (`mishpâṭ`) to rule.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 21:27 finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "one whose right it is" is none other than the Messiah, the true and eternal King. While the earthly Davidic monarchy was overturned due to human sin and unfaithfulness, God's promise to David for an everlasting throne was not abrogated but suspended, awaiting the arrival of the perfect King. Jesus, born of the lineage of David (cf. [Matthew 1:1](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ")), fully embodies the "right" (`mishpâṭ`) to the throne. He is the one to whom all justice and rightful authority belong, not by human election or conquest, but by divine decree and inherent righteousness. The angel Gabriel's prophecy to Mary explicitly declares that God "will give unto him the throne of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end" ([Luke 1:32-33](/luke/1-32-33 "Luke 1:32-33 - The Angel Gabriel's Prophecy to Mary")). Thus, the overturning in Ezekiel points forward to the ultimate establishment of Christ's kingdom, which is not of this world yet reigns over it, a kingdom that will never be overturned but will endure eternally, as prophesied in [Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdoms of the World Become Christ's") where "The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever." Jesus, the King of kings and Lord of lords, is the one to whom all authority in heaven and on earth has been given ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus")), fulfilling Ezekiel's ancient prophecy with divine power and grace.

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

Micah 5:2

But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, [though] thou be little among the thousands of Judah, [yet] out of thee shall he come forth unto me [that is] to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth [have been] from of old, from everlasting.

Jeremiah 23:5

Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth.

Jeremiah 23:6

In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this [is] his name whereby he shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.

Luke 1:32

He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David:

Psalms 2:6

Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion.

Haggai 2:21

Speak to Zerubbabel, governor of Judah, saying, I will shake the heavens and the earth;

Haggai 2:22

And I will overthrow the throne of kingdoms, and I will destroy the strength of the kingdoms of the heathen; and I will overthrow the chariots, and those that ride in them; and the horses and their riders shall come down, every one by the sword of his brother.