Ezekiel 21:28

KJV

¶ And thou, son of man, prophesy and say, Thus saith the Lord GOD concerning the Ammonites, and concerning their reproach; even say thou, The sword, the sword [is] drawn: for the slaughter [it is] furbished, to consume because of the glittering:

KJV (with Strong's)

And thou, son {H1121} of man {H120}, prophesy {H5012} and say {H559}, Thus saith {H559} the Lord {H136} GOD {H3069} concerning the Ammonites {H1121}{H5983}, and concerning their reproach {H2781}; even say {H559} thou, The sword {H2719}, the sword {H2719} is drawn {H6605}: for the slaughter {H2874} it is furbished {H4803}, to consume {H398} because of the glittering {H1300}:

Complete Jewish Bible

"You, human being, prophesy! Say that Adonai ELOHIM says this about the people of 'Amon and their insults: 'A sword, a sword, is drawn for slaughter, polished to the utmost, to flash like lightning -

Berean Standard Bible

Now prophesy, son of man, and declare that this is what the Lord GOD says concerning the Ammonites and their contempt: ‘A sword! A sword is drawn for slaughter, polished to consume, to flash like lightning—

American Standard Version

And thou, son of man, prophesy, and say, Thus saith the Lord Jehovah concerning the children of Ammon, and concerning their reproach; and say thou, A sword, a sword is drawn, for the slaughter it is furbished, to cause it to devour, that it may be as lightning;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 21:28 delivers a stark prophecy of divine judgment against the Ammonites, a neighboring nation historically hostile to Israel. Through the prophet Ezekiel, the Lord God declares that a sword, sharpened and ready for slaughter, is drawn against them specifically because of their "reproach"—their scornful mockery and gloating over the suffering of God's covenant people. The imagery emphasizes the certainty, severity, and terrifying swiftness of the impending divine retribution.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is part of a larger prophetic oracle in [Ezekiel chapter 21](/ezekiel/21 "Ezekiel 21 - The Sword of the Lord"), often referred to as the "Sword Song" or "Sword Prophecy." The chapter begins with a declaration of God's judgment upon Jerusalem and Judah, symbolized by a sharpened sword drawn against them. However, the oracle then shifts its focus, demonstrating that God's judgment is not confined to His own people but extends to surrounding nations who have acted with hostility or contempt towards Israel. Verses [Ezekiel 21:18-27](/ezekiel/21-18 "Ezekiel 21:18-27 - The King of Babylon's Choice") describe Babylon's king at a crossroads, deciding whether to attack Ammon or Judah, with God guiding his decision. Verse 28 then directly addresses Ezekiel to prophesy against the Ammonites, indicating a distinct, targeted judgment following the broader themes of divine wrath.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Ammonites were descendants of Ben-Ammi, a son of Lot ([Genesis 19:38](/genesis/19-38 "Genesis 19:38 - Origin of the Ammonites")). They inhabited the Transjordan region, east of the Jordan River, with their capital at Rabbah (modern Amman). Throughout Israel's history, the Ammonites were perennial adversaries, engaging in numerous conflicts (e.g., [Judges 3:12-14](/judges/3-12 "Judges 3:12-14 - Eglon of Moab Oppresses Israel"), [1 Samuel 11](/1_samuel/11 "1 Samuel 11 - Saul Defeats the Ammonites"), [2 Samuel 10](/2_samuel/10 "2 Samuel 10 - David Defeats the Ammonites")). During the period of Judah's decline and the Babylonian invasions, the Ammonites did not offer aid but instead gloated over Jerusalem's destruction and the suffering of its people. Their "reproach" specifically refers to their scornful derision and possibly their active participation in the plundering of Judah, or their territorial expansion into Israelite lands during this time of weakness, as hinted in other prophetic texts like [Jeremiah 49:1-6](/jeremiah/49-1 "Jeremiah 49:1-6 - Prophecy Against Ammon") and [Amos 1:13-15](/amos/1-13 "Amos 1:13-15 - Ammon's Cruelty Condemned").
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes within Ezekiel and the broader prophetic tradition. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Judgment on Nations**, demonstrating God's universal sovereignty and His accountability for all peoples, not just His covenant nation. Secondly, it highlights the severe **Consequences of Reproach and Contempt**, particularly when directed at God's afflicted people. The Ammonites' scornful attitude and gloating were not overlooked by God but became a specific charge against them, revealing God's deep concern for justice and compassion. Finally, the recurring imagery of **The Sword of the LORD** throughout [Ezekiel chapter 21](/ezekiel/21 "Ezekiel 21 - The Sword of the Lord") serves as a potent symbol of God's instrument of wrath and destruction. The description of the sword as "drawn," "furbished" (polished and sharpened), and ready "for the slaughter" emphasizes the certainty, readiness, and devastating efficacy of God's impending judgment, which would "consume because of the glittering" – a vivid portrayal of its terrifying and swift impact.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **reproach (Hebrew, _cherpâh'_ H2781):** This word signifies "contumely, disgrace, shame." In the context of the Ammonites, it points to their scornful attitude, mockery, and gloating over the suffering and downfall of Judah. It implies a deep-seated contempt and malicious joy in the misfortune of others, which God views as a serious offense.
* **sword (Hebrew, _chereb'_ H2719):** This term refers to a "cutting instrument," specifically a "sword," and is often associated with its "destructive effect." Here, it is not merely a weapon but a powerful symbol of divine judgment and the instrument through which God's wrath will be executed upon the Ammonites. The repetition of "the sword, the sword" emphasizes its centrality and certainty.
* **glittering (Hebrew, _bârâq'_ H1300):** Derived from a root meaning "lightning," this word refers to "lightning," a "gleam," or a "flashing sword." It conveys the idea of brightness, swiftness, and terror. The sword's "glittering" suggests its polished sharpness, its terrifying appearance, and the sudden, overwhelming nature of the judgment it brings. It implies that the very sight of God's prepared instrument of wrath is enough to cause destruction.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And thou, son of man, prophesy and say, Thus saith the Lord GOD concerning the Ammonites":** This opening clause establishes Ezekiel's divine commission. He is the "son of man," a human prophet, tasked by the sovereign "Lord GOD" (Adonai YHWH) to deliver a specific oracle of judgment. The target is explicitly named: "the Ammonites," indicating a precise and intentional divine focus.
* **"and concerning their reproach; even say thou":** This phrase specifies the primary reason for the impending judgment. The "reproach" of the Ammonites—their scorn, mockery, and malicious joy over Judah's suffering—is singled out as the direct cause of God's wrath. This highlights that God judges not only actions but also attitudes of the heart.
* **"The sword, the sword is drawn: for the slaughter it is furbished":** The repetition of "the sword" underscores its certainty and prominence as the instrument of judgment. "Is drawn" signifies its readiness for immediate action, while "furbished" (polished and sharpened) indicates its preparation for maximum destructive effect. It is not a dormant threat but an active, prepared agent of divine retribution, designed specifically "for the slaughter."
* **"to consume because of the glittering":** This final clause explains the purpose and terrifying nature of the furbished sword. "To consume" emphasizes the complete destruction it will bring. "Because of the glittering" suggests that the very flash or terrifying gleam of the sword, like lightning, is sufficient to bring about devastation, implying the speed, power, and overwhelming terror of God's judgment.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 21:28 employs several powerful **literary devices** to convey its message of impending judgment. The most prominent is **Repetition**, seen in "The sword, the sword," which serves to emphasize the certainty, inevitability, and singular focus of God's instrument of wrath. This rhetorical device builds intensity and dread. **Personification** is also evident, as the sword is described with active verbs: it "is drawn," "is furbished," and is poised "to consume." This gives the inanimate sword an almost sentient quality, portraying it as a purposeful agent of divine will. Furthermore, the entire passage is rich in **Symbolism**, with the "sword" representing God's righteous judgment and destructive power. The "glittering" of the sword symbolizes not only its physical sharpness and readiness but also the terrifying swiftness and overwhelming nature of divine retribution, akin to a flash of lightning. The verse functions as an **Oracle of Judgment**, a common prophetic genre, where the divine pronouncement of condemnation is delivered directly through the prophet.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 21:28 profoundly illustrates God's universal sovereignty and His unwavering commitment to justice, extending His judgment beyond His covenant people to all nations. The Ammonites' "reproach" reveals that God holds nations accountable not only for overt acts of aggression but also for their attitudes, particularly their contempt and malicious joy towards the suffering of others. This underscores a critical theological principle: God cares deeply about how His people, even in their affliction, are treated by the surrounding world. Their gloating was an affront to God's own heart, and He would not let it go unpunished. This passage affirms that divine retribution is certain and precise, executed with a "furbished" and "drawn" sword, signifying God's readiness to act decisively against those who defy His moral order and show cruelty to the vulnerable.

* [Jeremiah 49:1-6](/jeremiah/49-1 "Jeremiah's Prophecy Against Ammon")
* [Amos 1:13-15](/amos/1-13 "Amos' Condemnation of Ammon's Cruelty")
* [Obadiah 1:10-14](/obadiah/1-10 "Obadiah's Judgment on Edom for Gloating")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 21:28 serves as a potent reminder that God observes not only our actions but also the disposition of our hearts, particularly our attitudes towards those who are suffering or vulnerable. The Ammonites were judged for their "reproach"—their scornful gloating over Judah's downfall. This challenges us to examine our own hearts: do we ever secretly rejoice in the misfortune of others, or harbor contempt for those who are struggling? This verse calls us to cultivate empathy, compassion, and a spirit of lament rather than schadenfreude. It underscores that God is a God of justice who will ultimately vindicate the oppressed and hold the proud accountable. This truth should inspire both humility in us and a deep trust in God's sovereign control, even when we witness injustice or suffering in the world. Our response to the pain of others reflects our understanding of God's heart and His call to righteousness.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does God's judgment against the Ammonites for their "reproach" challenge our own attitudes towards those who are suffering or vulnerable?**
* **In what ways might we, even subtly, exhibit a "reproachful" spirit in our words or thoughts towards others, and how can we cultivate empathy and compassion instead?**
* **How does the certainty of God's justice, as depicted by the "drawn" and "furbished" sword, inform our trust in His ultimate plan for righteousness and peace in a world often marked by injustice?**

### FAQ
**What was the specific "reproach" of the Ammonites that provoked God's judgment?**

Answer: The "reproach" (Hebrew: _cherpâh_) of the Ammonites refers to their scornful attitude, mockery, and gloating over the downfall and suffering of Judah, God's covenant people, during the Babylonian invasions. Instead of showing compassion or solidarity, they rejoiced in Jerusalem's calamity and may have even actively participated in the plundering of Judahite territory or sought to expand their own borders into Israelite lands during this period of weakness. Other prophetic texts, such as [Jeremiah 49:1-6](/jeremiah/49-1 "Jeremiah's Prophecy Against Ammon") and [Amos 1:13-15](/amos/1-13 "Amos' Condemnation of Ammon's Cruelty"), further condemn Ammon for its cruelty and territorial ambitions. God viewed their contempt for His afflicted people as a direct affront to Himself and an act of defiance against His sovereign will.

**Does the "glittering" of the sword have a deeper meaning beyond its physical appearance?**

Answer: Yes, the "glittering" (Hebrew: _bârâq_, meaning "lightning" or "gleam") carries significant symbolic weight beyond merely describing a polished weapon. While it certainly implies the sword's sharpness and readiness for battle, perhaps reflecting the formidable Babylonian army, it also suggests the terrifying swiftness and suddenness of God's judgment, akin to a flash of lightning. It can symbolize the awe-inspiring, blinding terror that divine judgment would inflict upon the Ammonites, or even serve as a subtle irony where their own pride and "glittering" military might would be met by the terrifying "glitter" of God's wrath. The phrase "to consume because of the glittering" indicates that the very sight and terrifying presence of God's prepared instrument of judgment are sufficient to bring about utter destruction.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 21:28, with its vivid portrayal of God's drawn and furbished sword of judgment against the Ammonites for their "reproach," finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While this Old Testament prophecy speaks of a specific historical judgment, it foreshadows a greater, cosmic judgment executed by the Messiah. The "sword" that consumes because of its "glittering" is a powerful image of divine justice, which culminates in Christ as the righteous Judge of all the earth. The New Testament depicts Christ with a "sharp two-edged sword" proceeding from His mouth ([Revelation 1:16](/revelation/1-16 "Revelation 1:16 - The Son of Man's Appearance"); [Revelation 19:15](/revelation/19-15 "Revelation 19:15 - Christ's Judgment")), symbolizing the power of His word to judge and execute divine decrees. The "reproach" suffered by God's people in the Old Testament finds its ultimate answer in Christ, who endured the greatest reproach and suffering on the cross ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus Endured the Cross")), yet was ultimately vindicated. His first coming inaugurated salvation, but His second coming will bring the full and final judgment against all forms of sin, pride, and contempt, consuming all opposition and establishing His eternal kingdom of righteousness and peace ([2 Thessalonians 1:7-10](/2_thessalonians/1-7 "2 Thessalonians 1:7-10 - The Lord Jesus Revealed From Heaven")). Thus, the judgment on Ammon serves as a historical microcosm of the ultimate, Christ-centered judgment where all who have opposed God and His people will face His righteous and glorious wrath.

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 21:9

Son of man, prophesy, and say, Thus saith the LORD; Say, A sword, a sword is sharpened, and also furbished:

Ezekiel 21:10

It is sharpened to make a sore slaughter; it is furbished that it may glitter: should we then make mirth? it contemneth the rod of my son, [as] every tree.

Ezekiel 21:20

Appoint a way, that the sword may come to Rabbath of the Ammonites, and to Judah in Jerusalem the defenced.

Zephaniah 2:8

¶ I have heard the reproach of Moab, and the revilings of the children of Ammon, whereby they have reproached my people, and magnified [themselves] against their border.

Zephaniah 2:10

This shall they have for their pride, because they have reproached and magnified [themselves] against the people of the LORD of hosts.

Jeremiah 12:12

The spoilers are come upon all high places through the wilderness: for the sword of the LORD shall devour from the [one] end of the land even to the [other] end of the land: no flesh shall have peace.

Jeremiah 49:1

¶ Concerning the Ammonites, thus saith the LORD; Hath Israel no sons? hath he no heir? why [then] doth their king inherit Gad, and his people dwell in his cities?