Ezekiel 25:16

KJV

Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I will stretch out mine hand upon the Philistines, and I will cut off the Cherethims, and destroy the remnant of the sea coast.

KJV (with Strong's)

Therefore thus saith {H559} the Lord {H136} GOD {H3069}; Behold, I will stretch out {H5186} mine hand {H3027} upon the Philistines {H6430}, and I will cut off {H3772} the Cherethims {H3774}, and destroy {H6} the remnant {H7611} of the sea {H3220} coast {H2348}.

Complete Jewish Bible

therefore,' Adonai ELOHIM says, 'I will stretch out my hand over the P'lishtim, eliminate the K'reti and destroy the rest of the seacoast peoples.

Berean Standard Bible

therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: Behold, I will stretch out My hand against the Philistines, and I will cut off the Cherethites and destroy the remnant along the coast.

American Standard Version

therefore thus saith the Lord Jehovah, Behold, I will stretch out my hand upon the Philistines, and I will cut off the Cherethites, and destroy the remnant of the sea coast.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 25:16 delivers a solemn divine oracle against the Philistines, a long-standing and bitter adversary of Israel. This pronouncement, introduced by the authoritative declaration "Thus saith the Lord GOD," reveals God's unwavering resolve to execute severe judgment upon them. The verse specifically details a comprehensive and destructive intervention, where God Himself will "stretch out" His hand to "cut off" the Cherethims—a prominent Philistine clan—and "destroy the remnant of the sea coast," signifying a complete and utter annihilation of their coastal inhabitants due to their deep-seated malice and perpetual hatred towards His people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezekiel 25 initiates a distinct section of the book (chapters 25-32) comprising oracles against foreign nations. These prophecies follow Ezekiel's pronouncements of judgment against Judah and Jerusalem (chapters 1-24) and precede the prophecies of Israel's restoration (chapters 33-48). The placement of these oracles against the nations serves several crucial purposes: it demonstrates God's universal sovereignty, assures the exiled Israelites that their oppressors and those who rejoiced in their downfall will also face divine justice, and highlights that Judah's judgment was not a sign of God's weakness but rather His righteous discipline. Specifically, chapter 25 addresses Ammon, Moab, Edom, and the Philistines, condemning them for their animosity and opportunistic actions against Israel during its time of vulnerability. The Philistine oracle in [Ezekiel 25:15-17](/ezekiel/25-15 "Ezekiel 25:15-17 - God's Judgment on the Philistines") is the final in this series, emphasizing the breadth of God's judicial reach.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Philistines were a formidable people who had migrated from the Aegean region (likely Crete, often identified with Caphtor in biblical texts) and settled on the southwestern coast of Canaan around the 12th century BCE. They established a powerful pentapolis (Gaza, Ashkelon, Ashdod, Gath, and Ekron) and frequently clashed with the Israelites throughout their history, from the period of the Judges (e.g., [Judges 13-16](/judges/13 "Judges 13-16 - Samson's Conflicts with the Philistines")) through the monarchy (e.g., [1 Samuel 17](/1_samuel/17 "1 Samuel 17 - David and Goliath")). Their long-standing enmity was characterized by military aggression, cultural clashes, and a deep-seated desire to dominate Israel. During the time of Judah's decline and the Babylonian invasion, the Philistines likely capitalized on Israel's weakness, perhaps even participating in the plundering of Jerusalem or rejoicing in its destruction. This verse specifically condemns their "malice," "vengeance," and "perpetual hatred" (Ezekiel 25:15), indicating that their animosity went beyond mere political rivalry to a deep-seated, malicious intent.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Ezekiel and the broader prophetic literature. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Judgment and Retribution**, demonstrating that God holds all nations accountable for their actions, especially their treatment of His covenant people. The Philistines' persistent hostility and opportunistic malice against Israel are met with a commensurate divine response, reflecting the principle of *lex talionis* (eye for an eye) in a national context. Secondly, the declaration "Thus saith the Lord GOD" reinforces the theme of **God's Absolute Sovereignty** over all of creation and human history. He is not merely the God of Israel but the supreme ruler who orchestrates the rise and fall of empires, ensuring that His justice prevails. This theme provides comfort to the exiled Israelites, reminding them that their God remains in control despite their dire circumstances. Finally, the specific mention of "cutting off" and "destroying the remnant" highlights the theme of **Comprehensive Annihilation** for those who persistently defy God's will and harm His people, serving as a stark warning against unrepentant wickedness.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Stretch out (Hebrew, _nâṭâh'_):** From H5186, this primitive root signifies "to stretch or spread out." In the context of God's hand, it denotes a direct, powerful, and decisive intervention. This is a common biblical idiom for divine action, often in judgment (as here) or deliverance (e.g., the plagues in [Exodus 7:5](/exodus/7-5 "Exodus 7:5 - God's Hand Against Pharaoh")). It implies an active, intentional, and irresistible exertion of divine power.
* **Cut off (Hebrew, _kârath'_):** From H3772, this root means "to cut (off, down or asunder)." By implication, it can mean to destroy or consume. While often used in the context of "making a covenant" (by cutting flesh), here it signifies a severing, an eradication, or a complete termination. When applied to a people, it indicates their utter destruction or removal from existence, emphasizing the finality and severity of God's judgment against the Cherethims.
* **Destroy (Hebrew, _ʼâbad'_):** From H6, this primitive root means "to wander away" and, by implication, "to perish" or (causatively) "to destroy." It conveys the idea of utter ruin, being lost, or ceasing to exist. In this verse, it reinforces the comprehensive nature of the judgment, ensuring that no "remnant" of the Philistine coastal population will survive, underscoring the completeness of the divine wrath.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD;":** This opening formula is a classic prophetic oracle marker, establishing the divine authority and absolute certainty of the pronouncement. "Lord GOD" combines `Adonai` (H136, "Master" or "Lord," emphasizing God's sovereignty) and `YHWH` (H3069, "Yahweh" or "Jehovah," God's personal covenant name, highlighting His self-existence and faithfulness). Together, these titles underscore that the judgment is not a human prediction but a decree from the supreme, covenant-keeping God.
* **"Behold, I will stretch out mine hand upon the Philistines,":** The interjection "Behold" (often translated "Lo" or "Indeed") draws immediate attention to the gravity of what follows. The phrase "I will stretch out mine hand" signifies God's direct, personal, and forceful intervention. It is an anthropomorphism, attributing a human action (stretching out a hand) to God to convey His active and powerful engagement in judgment against the Philistines (H6430), who are the specific target of this divine wrath.
* **"and I will cut off the Cherethims,":** This clause specifies a particular group within the Philistines. The Cherethims (H3774) were likely a prominent Philistine clan, possibly mercenaries or a specific ethnic group, perhaps from Crete. Their explicit mention indicates that God's judgment will be thorough, targeting even the most distinct or formidable elements of the Philistine population, ensuring a complete eradication (H3772).
* **"and destroy the remnant of the sea coast.":** This final clause reiterates and intensifies the scope of the judgment. "Destroy" (H6) emphasizes utter annihilation, while "remnant" (H7611) signifies that no survivors will be left. The "sea coast" (H3220, H2348) refers to their geographical territory, indicating that the judgment will affect their entire population and land, leaving no one to escape the divine wrath.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 25:16 employs several potent **Literary Devices** to convey the severity and certainty of God's judgment. The most prominent is **Prophetic Oracle Formula**, "Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD," which immediately establishes the divine origin and incontrovertible authority of the message. This formula is a hallmark of prophetic literature, signaling that the words are not human conjecture but direct revelation from the Almighty. **Anthropomorphism** is evident in the phrase "I will stretch out mine hand," attributing a human physical action to God to vividly portray His direct, personal, and powerful intervention in judgment. This device makes God's action relatable and impactful. Furthermore, the verse uses **Totalizing Language** and a form of **Hyperbole** through the phrases "cut off the Cherethims" and "destroy the remnant of the sea coast." While the judgment was indeed severe, such language emphasizes the comprehensive and devastating nature of the divine retribution, implying a complete and utter eradication of their presence and power. The use of two strong verbs, "cut off" and "destroy," in quick succession also creates a sense of **Parallelism** and **Emphasis**, reinforcing the finality and thoroughness of the impending doom.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 25:16 profoundly illustrates God's unyielding justice and His sovereign rule over all nations. It reveals that God is not indifferent to the suffering of His people or the malicious actions of their enemies. The Philistines' long history of animosity and their opportunistic rejoicing in Judah's downfall provoked a divine response that was both righteous and comprehensive. This passage serves as a powerful reminder that while God is merciful and patient, there are limits to His forbearance, and persistent, malicious wickedness will ultimately face His decisive judgment. It underscores the biblical principle that vengeance belongs to the Lord, and He will repay.

* [Deuteronomy 32:35](/deuteronomy/32-35 "Deuteronomy 32:35 - Vengeance Belongs to God")
* [Psalm 103:19](/psalms/103-19 "Psalm 103:19 - God's Sovereign Dominion")
* [Romans 12:19](/romans/12-19 "Romans 12:19 - Do Not Avenge Yourselves")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 25:16, while rooted in a specific historical context of divine judgment against an ancient enemy, carries profound timeless truths for contemporary believers. It reminds us that God is actively involved in the affairs of humanity and that His justice will ultimately prevail. For those who feel oppressed, marginalized, or wronged, this verse offers a powerful assurance that God sees, God knows, and God will act. He is the ultimate vindicator of His people and the righteous judge of all nations. Conversely, it serves as a sobering warning against harboring malice, celebrating the misfortune of others, or seeking vengeance. The Philistines were judged not merely for their actions but for the "perpetual hatred" that fueled them. This calls us to examine our own hearts, to root out bitterness, and to cultivate a spirit of forgiveness and love, even towards those who wrong us, trusting that ultimate justice rests in God's capable hands. It encourages us to pray for justice, to work for righteousness, and to rest in the sovereignty of a God who will make all things right in His time.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the concept of God's universal sovereignty, as demonstrated in this verse, impact your understanding of current global events or personal injustices?**
* **In what ways might we, as individuals or communities, be tempted to harbor "perpetual hatred" or rejoice in the misfortune of others, and how can we counter such inclinations with a Christ-like response?**
* **What comfort or challenge does this prophecy offer to you regarding God's commitment to justice and His defense of His people?**

### FAQ
**What does "Cherethims" refer to in this verse?**
Answer: The "Cherethims" (Hebrew: *Kerethim*) refer to a specific group or clan within the Philistine people. They are often associated with the island of Crete (Caphtor in biblical texts), from which the Philistines are believed to have migrated. They may have constituted a distinct military contingent or a particularly formidable element of the Philistine population. Their specific mention alongside the general "Philistines" and "remnant of the sea coast" underscores the comprehensive nature of God's impending judgment, indicating that no part of their society would escape the divine wrath. They are also mentioned elsewhere in the Old Testament, for example, as part of David's elite guard in [2 Samuel 8:18](/2_samuel/8-18 "2 Samuel 8:18 - David's Mighty Men").

**Why were the Philistines singled out for such severe judgment by God?**
Answer: The Philistines were singled out for severe judgment primarily due to their long-standing and deeply malicious enmity towards Israel. Ezekiel 25:15 explicitly states that their actions stemmed from "malice in their soul" and "perpetual hatred" (KJV). Unlike some other nations who might have acted opportunistically, the Philistines harbored a deep-seated, ongoing animosity that intensified during Israel's weakness. They rejoiced in Judah's downfall and likely sought to exploit their vulnerability, perhaps even participating in the plundering of Jerusalem. This persistent, malicious opposition to God's covenant people, coupled with their idolatry and pride, provoked God's righteous indignation and decisive judgment, as seen in this and other prophetic condemnations (e.g., [Amos 1:8](/amos/1-8 "Amos 1:8 - Judgment on Ashdod")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Ezekiel 25:16 pronounces a specific historical judgment against the Philistines, it points forward to the ultimate and comprehensive judgment executed by Christ. The "stretching out of God's hand" in judgment finds its eschatological fulfillment in Jesus Christ, to whom "all judgment has been committed" by the Father ([John 5:22](/john/5-22 "John 5:22 - Jesus as Judge")). Just as God dealt decisively with those who opposed His people in the Old Testament, so too will Christ, at His second coming, judge all nations and individuals who have persistently rejected His rule and persecuted His followers ([Matthew 25:31-33](/matthew/25-31 "Matthew 25:31-33 - The Judgment of the Nations")). The "cutting off" and "destroying the remnant" foreshadows the final eradication of all evil, sin, and rebellion from creation, culminating in a new heavens and new earth where righteousness dwells ([Revelation 21:1-4](/revelation/21-1 "Revelation 21:1-4 - New Heaven and New Earth")). Ultimately, Christ is the one who will "put all his enemies under his feet" ([1 Corinthians 15:25](/1_corinthians/15-25 "1 Corinthians 15:25 - Christ Must Reign")), bringing about the complete and final triumph of God's justice and the establishment of His eternal kingdom, where no "remnant" of wickedness will remain.

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

1 Samuel 30:14

We made an invasion [upon] the south of the Cherethites, and upon [the coast] which [belongeth] to Judah, and upon the south of Caleb; and we burned Ziklag with fire.

Zephaniah 2:4

¶ For Gaza shall be forsaken, and Ashkelon a desolation: they shall drive out Ashdod at the noon day, and Ekron shall be rooted up.

Zephaniah 2:15

This [is] the rejoicing city that dwelt carelessly, that said in her heart, I [am], and [there is] none beside me: how is she become a desolation, a place for beasts to lie down in! every one that passeth by her shall hiss, [and] wag his hand.

2 Samuel 15:18

And all his servants passed on beside him; and all the Cherethites, and all the Pelethites, and all the Gittites, six hundred men which came after him from Gath, passed on before the king.

Ezekiel 25:13

Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; I will also stretch out mine hand upon Edom, and will cut off man and beast from it; and I will make it desolate from Teman; and they of Dedan shall fall by the sword.

Ezekiel 25:7

Behold, therefore I will stretch out mine hand upon thee, and will deliver thee for a spoil to the heathen; and I will cut thee off from the people, and I will cause thee to perish out of the countries: I will destroy thee; and thou shalt know that I [am] the LORD.

Jeremiah 47:1

¶ The word of the LORD that came to Jeremiah the prophet against the Philistines, before that Pharaoh smote Gaza.