Ezekiel 25:7

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

Behold, therefore I will stretch out {H5186} mine hand {H3027} upon thee, and will deliver {H5414} thee for a spoil {H957}{H897} to the heathen {H1471}; and I will cut thee off {H3772} from the people {H5971}, and I will cause thee to perish {H6} out of the countries {H776}: I will destroy {H8045} thee; and thou shalt know {H3045} that I am the LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

I am going to stretch out my hand over you and deliver you as plunder to the nations; I will cut you off from being a people and cause you to cease from being a nation; I will destroy you. Then you will know that I am ADONAI.'"

Berean Standard Bible

therefore I will indeed stretch out My hand against you and give you as plunder to the nations. I will cut you off from the peoples and exterminate you from the countries. I will destroy you, and you will know that I am the LORD.’

American Standard Version

therefore, behold, I have stretched out my hand upon thee, and will deliver thee for a spoil to the nations; and I will cut thee off from the peoples, and I will cause thee to perish out of the countries: I will destroy thee; and thou shalt know that I am Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 25:7 declares God's severe judgment against the nation of Ammon, foretelling their complete destruction and delivery as plunder to other nations. This pronouncement is a direct consequence of Ammon's malicious rejoicing and contemptuous attitude toward Judah's suffering and the desolation of Jerusalem. The verse culminates in the recurring theological statement that through these acts of judgment, Ammon, and indeed all nations, will be compelled to acknowledge the supreme sovereignty and identity of the Lord.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezekiel 25:7 is part of a larger prophetic oracle against the nations surrounding Israel, specifically against Ammon, Moab, Edom, and Philistia, found in [Ezekiel 25](/ezekiel/25 "Ezekiel 25 - Prophecies Against Neighboring Nations"). This chapter initiates a section of judgment prophecies spanning [Ezekiel 25-32](/ezekiel/25 "Ezekiel 25-32 - Oracles Against the Nations"), which serve as a theological counterpoint to the earlier prophecies of Judah's downfall and the later prophecies of Israel's restoration. The immediate verses preceding [Ezekiel 25:7](/ezekiel/25-7 "Ezekiel 25:7 - God's Judgment on Ammon") detail Ammon's specific offenses: their "clapping of hands" and "stamping of feet" in malicious glee over the destruction of Judah and the defilement of the sanctuary ([Ezekiel 25:3](/ezekiel/25-3 "Ezekiel 25:3 - Ammon's Mockery") and [Ezekiel 25:6](/ezekiel/25-6 "Ezekiel 25:6 - Ammon's Rejoicing")). Verse 7, therefore, serves as the divine verdict and the explicit declaration of punishment for their unholy satisfaction.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy against Ammon is set against the backdrop of the Babylonian conquest of Judah and the destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BC. Ammon, located east of the Jordan River, was a long-standing enemy of Israel, often engaging in border conflicts and raids. While Judah was being besieged and ultimately destroyed by Babylon, Ammon, rather than showing solidarity or sorrow, openly rejoiced at their neighbor's calamity. This was not merely political opportunism but a deep-seated animosity, fueled by historical grievances and perhaps a desire to expand their own territory into the vacuum left by Judah's fall. Such public displays of contempt, like clapping and stamping, were culturally understood as expressions of extreme derision and triumph over a fallen foe, deeply offensive in the ancient Near East, especially when directed at a people with whom one shared a degree of kinship, even if estranged.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Ezekiel and the prophetic literature. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Judgment and Retribution**, demonstrating God's active role in punishing nations for their wickedness, especially their ill-treatment of His people. The repeated "I will" statements emphasize God's direct agency. Secondly, it highlights the **Sovereignty of God over all Nations**, asserting that the Lord's dominion extends beyond Israel to encompass every kingdom and people. He is not merely the God of Israel but the Lord of all creation, capable of raising up and casting down nations according to His righteous will, as seen in [Isaiah 10:5-7](/isaiah/10-5 "Isaiah 10:5-7 - Assyria as God's Instrument"). Thirdly, the phrase "thou shalt know that I am the LORD" is a foundational theme in Ezekiel, emphasizing the **Revelation of God's Identity** through His mighty acts, whether in judgment or restoration. This knowledge is not just intellectual but an experiential acknowledgment of His unique power and authority, a theme echoed throughout the book, as in [Ezekiel 6:7](/ezekiel/6-7 "Ezekiel 6:7 - Knowing God Through Judgment").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **hand (Hebrew, _yâd'_):** This primitive word refers to the "hand" as an open one, indicating power, means, or direction. In the phrase "stretch out mine hand," it signifies a powerful, decisive, and direct intervention by God. It is an anthropomorphism conveying God's active and forceful engagement in judgment, not merely a passive allowance of events.
* **heathen (Hebrew, _gôwy'_):** This term refers to a "foreign nation" or "Gentile." In this context, it emphasizes that Ammon will be delivered into the hands of other non-Israelite nations, specifically the Babylonians, who will plunder them. It underscores their loss of national identity and autonomy, becoming prey to those outside the covenant community.
* **know (Hebrew, _yâdaʻ'_):** This primitive root means "to know," but encompasses a wide range of understanding, from intellectual ascertainment to experiential recognition, care, and acknowledgment. In the phrase "thou shalt know that I am the LORD," it implies that Ammon's destruction will lead to an undeniable, albeit forced, recognition of God's unique identity, supreme power, and righteous character. It is an experiential knowledge brought about through divine action.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Behold, therefore I will stretch out mine hand upon thee":** This opening clause serves as an emphatic declaration of divine intent. "Behold" (or "Thus says the Lord" in other translations) signals a significant pronouncement. "I will stretch out mine hand" is a powerful idiom, signifying God's direct, forceful, and decisive intervention in judgment against Ammon.
* **"and will deliver thee for a spoil to the heathen":** This specifies the nature of the judgment. Ammon will not merely be defeated but will be "delivered for a spoil" (plunder, booty) to "the heathen" (foreign nations, likely Babylon). This indicates a complete loss of their national wealth, resources, and sovereignty, becoming utterly vulnerable to their enemies.
* **"and I will cut thee off from the people":** This clause signifies the eradication of Ammon's national identity and existence. To be "cut off" implies a severing of their lineage, their place among the nations, and their ability to continue as a distinct people group.
* **"and I will cause thee to perish out of the countries":** This reinforces the previous statement, emphasizing the total annihilation of Ammon as a political and geographical entity. They will cease to exist "out of the countries," meaning their land will be desolate, and their people dispersed or destroyed.
* **"I will destroy thee":** This is a stark, unequivocal declaration of utter ruin. It leaves no doubt about the severity and finality of God's judgment, summarizing the preceding clauses with absolute certainty.
* **"and thou shalt know that I am the LORD":** This concluding phrase is the ultimate purpose of the judgment. Through their complete destruction, Ammon will be forced to acknowledge the unique, sovereign identity of Yahweh, the God of Israel. This knowledge is not an act of repentance but a compelled recognition of His power and authority, demonstrating that His word is true and His justice absolute.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 25:7 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its message of divine judgment. **Anthropomorphism** is evident in the phrase "I will stretch out mine hand," attributing a human action (stretching out a hand) to God to emphasize His direct and forceful intervention. This makes God's agency tangible and comprehensible. The repeated use of "I will" throughout the verse exemplifies **Anaphora** and **Divine Sovereignty**, creating a rhythmic emphasis on God as the sole initiator and executor of these judgments. This repetition underscores His absolute control over the destinies of nations. Furthermore, the concluding phrase, "thou shalt know that I am the LORD," is a recurring **Theological Formula** or **Recognition Formula** throughout Ezekiel. It serves as the ultimate purpose and outcome of all God's actions, whether in judgment or restoration, ensuring that His unique identity and supreme authority are universally acknowledged.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 25:7 powerfully articulates God's unwavering commitment to justice and His absolute sovereignty over all nations. It reveals that God is not indifferent to the suffering of His people or the malicious glee of their adversaries. His judgment is precise, proportionate, and ultimately designed to reveal His unique identity as the one true God. This passage underscores that while God has a special covenant relationship with Israel, His moral governance extends to all humanity, holding even pagan nations accountable for their actions and attitudes. The ultimate goal of divine judgment is not merely punishment but the experiential knowledge of God's character and power, compelling even His enemies to acknowledge His Lordship.

* [Psalm 9:16](/psalm/9-16 "Psalm 9:16 - The Lord is known by His judgment"): "The LORD is known by the judgment which he executeth: the wicked is snared in the work of his own hands."
* [Obadiah 1:15](/obadiah/1-15 "Obadiah 1:15 - The Day of the Lord Against Edom"): "For the day of the LORD is near upon all the heathen: as thou hast done, it shall be done unto thee: thy reward shall return upon thine own head."
* [Romans 12:19](/romans/12-19 "Romans 12:19 - Vengeance is the Lord's"): "Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 25:7 serves as a profound reminder of God's active involvement in human history and His unwavering commitment to justice. For believers, this passage calls for a careful examination of our own hearts and attitudes, particularly concerning the misfortunes of others. The Ammonites' sin was not merely political opposition but a malicious delight in Judah's suffering. This should challenge us to cultivate compassion, even for those who oppose us, and to resist the temptation of "schadenfreude"—rejoicing in another's downfall. It also offers immense comfort and assurance, knowing that God sees all injustice and will ultimately bring about His perfect judgment, ensuring that His name is glorified and His sovereignty acknowledged by all. In a world often marked by unpunished evil, this verse reassures us that no act of malice or contempt escapes the notice of the sovereign Lord, and His justice will prevail, ultimately leading all to know that He is indeed the LORD.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I, subtly or overtly, harbor malicious joy or indifference towards the struggles of others, even those I perceive as adversaries?**
* **How does the certainty of God's judgment against nations like Ammon strengthen my faith in His ultimate justice in a world that often seems unjust?**
* **What does "knowing that I am the LORD" mean experientially in my own life, and how do God's actions, both in discipline and blessing, lead me to a deeper recognition of His identity?**
* **How can I cultivate a heart of compassion and prayer for those who suffer, rather than succumbing to the temptation of judgment or gloating?**

### FAQ
**Why was God so harsh with Ammon for rejoicing over Judah's downfall?**

Answer: God's severe judgment on Ammon, as declared in [Ezekiel 25:7](/ezekiel/25-7 "Ezekiel 25:7 - God's Judgment on Ammon"), was not merely for their political opposition but specifically for their malicious and contemptuous rejoicing over Judah's devastation and the desecration of the temple. [Ezekiel 25:3](/ezekiel/25-3 "Ezekiel 25:3 - Ammon's Mockery") and [Ezekiel 25:6](/ezekiel/25-6 "Ezekiel 25:6 - Ammon's Rejoicing") highlight their "clapping of hands" and "stamping of feet" in glee. This was seen as an act of profound disrespect, not just to Judah, but to God Himself, whose name was associated with Jerusalem and the temple. God views the mistreatment of His people as an affront to His own honor and sovereignty. Their actions demonstrated a lack of basic human empathy and a deep-seated animosity that crossed a divine line, incurring a judgment meant to reveal His absolute authority.

**What does "thou shalt know that I am the LORD" mean in the context of judgment?**

Answer: The phrase "thou shalt know that I am the LORD" (Hebrew: _wîdaʿtem kî ʾănî YHWH_) is a recurring theological motif throughout the book of Ezekiel, appearing over 70 times. In the context of judgment, as in [Ezekiel 25:7](/ezekiel/25-7 "Ezekiel 25:7 - God's Judgment on Ammon"), it signifies that God's actions, even destructive ones, are ultimately purposed to reveal His unique identity, power, and sovereignty. It's not merely an intellectual understanding, but an experiential, undeniable acknowledgment of who He is. For Ammon, this "knowing" would come through their utter destruction, forcing them to recognize that the God of Israel is the supreme Lord over all nations, capable of executing His word with absolute certainty. This theme is also seen in [Exodus 7:5](/exodus/7-5 "Exodus 7:5 - Egyptians Will Know the Lord"), where Pharaoh and the Egyptians would know the Lord through the plagues.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Ezekiel 25:7 speaks of God's judgment upon a specific pagan nation, its underlying principles find profound Christ-centered fulfillment. The verse reveals God's unwavering justice and His ultimate sovereignty over all nations, themes that are fully embodied in Christ. Jesus, as the [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), bore the ultimate judgment for sin, demonstrating God's justice and mercy simultaneously. His crucifixion was the decisive act where God's hand was "stretched out" in judgment, not upon a nation for its malice, but upon His own Son for the sins of humanity ([Isaiah 53:5-6](/isaiah/53-5 "Isaiah 53:5-6 - Christ's Suffering for Our Sins")). Furthermore, the phrase "thou shalt know that I am the LORD" points to the universal revelation of God's identity, which is most fully realized through Christ. Through His life, death, and resurrection, the world is called to "know" God not merely as a terrifying judge, but as a loving Father who offers salvation. Ultimately, every knee will bow and every tongue confess that [Jesus Christ is Lord](/philippians/2-10 "Philippians 2:10 - Every Knee Shall Bow"), fulfilling the divine purpose that all should acknowledge the true God. The judgment against Ammon foreshadows the final judgment where all unrighteousness will be dealt with, and the absolute Lordship of Christ will be undeniably established ([Revelation 20:11-15](/revelation/20-11 "Revelation 20:11-15 - The Great White Throne Judgment")).

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

Zephaniah 1:4

I will also stretch out mine hand upon Judah, and upon all the inhabitants of Jerusalem; and I will cut off the remnant of Baal from this place, [and] the name of the Chemarims with the priests;

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 25:16

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.

Ezekiel 35:3

And say unto it, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, O mount Seir, I [am] against thee, and I will stretch out mine hand against thee, and I will make thee most desolate.

Ezekiel 14:9

And if the prophet be deceived when he hath spoken a thing, I the LORD have deceived that prophet, and I will stretch out my hand upon him, and will destroy him from the midst of my people Israel.

Ezekiel 6:14

So will I stretch out my hand upon them, and make the land desolate, yea, more desolate than the wilderness toward Diblath, in all their habitations: and they shall know that I [am] the LORD.

Jeremiah 49:2

Therefore, behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will cause an alarm of war to be heard in Rabbah of the Ammonites; and it shall be a desolate heap, and her daughters shall be burned with fire: then shall Israel be heir unto them that were his heirs, saith the LORD.