Ezekiel 34:13

KJV

And I will bring them out from the people, and gather them from the countries, and will bring them to their own land, and feed them upon the mountains of Israel by the rivers, and in all the inhabited places of the country.

KJV (with Strong's)

And I will bring them out {H3318} from the people {H5971}, and gather {H6908} them from the countries {H776}, and will bring {H935} them to their own land {H127}, and feed {H7462} them upon the mountains {H2022} of Israel {H3478} by the rivers {H650}, and in all the inhabited places {H4186} of the country {H776}.

Complete Jewish Bible

I will bring them back from those peoples, gather them from those countries and return them to their own land. Then I will let them feed on the mountains of Isra'el, by the streams and in all the livable places of the land.

Berean Standard Bible

I will bring them out from the peoples, gather them from the countries, and bring them into their own land. I will feed them on the mountains of Israel, in the ravines, and in all the settlements of the land.

American Standard Version

And I will bring them out from the peoples, and gather them from the countries, and will bring them into their own land; and I will feed them upon the mountains of Israel, by the watercourses, and in all the inhabited places of the country.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 34:13 stands as a pivotal prophetic declaration of God's sovereign commitment to His scattered people, Israel. It unveils a divine promise of comprehensive restoration, where the Lord Himself will actively re-gather His dispersed flock from all nations and tenderly lead them back to their ancestral land. This re-gathering is not merely a physical relocation but a re-establishment rooted in divine provision, security, and flourishing, as God pledges to shepherd them on the fertile mountains and in all the inhabited places of Israel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezekiel 34 initiates a profound shift in the prophet's message, moving from pronouncements of judgment against Israel and surrounding nations to a powerful vision of restoration and hope. The preceding chapters detailed the reasons for Jerusalem's destruction and the exile, primarily due to the people's idolatry and the corrupt leadership. [Chapter 34](/ezekiel/34 "Ezekiel 34 - The Lord as Shepherd") opens with a scathing indictment of Israel's "shepherds" (their political and religious leaders) who have failed to care for God's flock, instead exploiting and scattering them, as detailed in [Ezekiel 34:1-10](/ezekiel/34-1-10 "Ezekiel 34:1-10 - Indictment of Israel's Shepherds"). In stark contrast, God declares, "Behold, I myself will search for my sheep and will seek them out," a promise found in [Ezekiel 34:11](/ezekiel/34-11 "Ezekiel 34:11 - God Seeks His Sheep"). Verse 13, therefore, is a direct articulation of God's promised action, detailing the initial phase of this divine shepherding: the physical re-gathering of the exiles back to their homeland, setting the stage for further promises of provision, protection, and the establishment of a righteous Davidic shepherd, as revealed in [Ezekiel 34:23-24](/ezekiel/34-23-24 "Ezekiel 34:23-24 - The Promise of a Davidic Shepherd").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy of Ezekiel was delivered during the Babylonian exile, a period of profound national trauma and dispersion for the people of Judah. Many had been forcibly removed from their land, living as captives in Babylon, as indicated in [Ezekiel 1:1-3](/ezekiel/1-1-3 "Ezekiel 1:1-3 - Ezekiel's Prophetic Call in Exile"). The "countries" mentioned in the verse refer to the various lands where the Jewish exiles were scattered, reflecting the reality of their dispersion. The imagery of "shepherds" and "sheep" was deeply resonant in ancient Near Eastern cultures, where kings and leaders were often depicted as shepherds of their people, responsible for their welfare. The "mountains of Israel" and "rivers" evoke the geographical heartland of the promised land, symbolizing its natural resources and the potential for agricultural abundance. This promise of return and provision would have been a radical message of hope to a people who had lost their land, temple, and national identity.

* **Key Themes:** Ezekiel 34:13 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Ezekiel and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Divine Restoration and Re-gathering**, emphasizing God's active role in reversing the consequences of human sin and judgment. This is a recurring motif in prophetic literature, promising a return from exile and a spiritual renewal, a theme powerfully echoed in passages like [Ezekiel 36:24, where God promises to gather Israel from all nations](/ezekiel/36-24 "Ezekiel 36:24 - God Gathers Israel from All Nations"). Secondly, the verse underscores **God's Sovereignty and Faithfulness**, demonstrating that despite Israel's failures and the corruption of its leaders, God remains true to His covenant promises to His people and their land. He will personally intervene where human leadership has failed. Thirdly, it introduces the profound theme of **God as the True Shepherd**, contrasting His diligent care with the negligence of human leaders. This sets the stage for the climactic promise of a righteous Davidic king who will shepherd them, as found in [Ezekiel 34:23-24](/ezekiel/34-23-24 "The Promise of a Davidic Shepherd"), foreshadowing the ultimate Good Shepherd. Finally, it speaks to **Divine Provision and Security**, promising not just a return to the land but a flourishing existence marked by abundance and safety under God's direct care.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **bring them out (Hebrew, _yâtsâʼ'_):** This primitive root signifies "to go (causatively, bring) out" in a wide variety of applications, literally and figuratively. In Ezekiel 34:13, it emphasizes God's active, decisive intervention to extract His people from their state of dispersion among other nations. It implies a forceful yet redemptive act of liberation, not merely a passive departure, but a divine initiative to lead forth.
* **gather (Hebrew, _qâbats'_):** Meaning "to grasp, i.e., collect," this verb highlights the comprehensive nature of God's re-gathering. It suggests a meticulous assembly of all the scattered individuals, ensuring that none are lost or forgotten. This is a deliberate, purposeful act of unification, bringing together what was fragmented and dispersed.
* **feed (Hebrew, _râʻâh'_):** While often translated simply as "feed," this primitive root is far richer, encompassing the full spectrum of a shepherd's duties: "to tend a flock; i.e., pasture it; intransitively, to graze; generally to rule; by extension, to associate with (as a friend)." Thus, God's promise to "feed them" implies not just physical sustenance but comprehensive care, guidance, protection, and benevolent governance, acting as their ultimate Shepherd and provider, fostering a relationship of intimate care.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And I will bring them out from the people, and gather them from the countries":** This initial clause emphasizes God's direct, personal action in rescuing His scattered flock. "The people" and "the countries" refer to the Gentile nations where Israel was dispersed during the exile. This is a divine reversal of the judgment of scattering, demonstrating God's unwavering commitment to His covenant people. It highlights His initiative and power in overcoming the obstacles of their dispersion, actively liberating them from foreign lands.
* **"and will bring them to their own land":** This phrase specifies the destination of the re-gathering: the promised land of Israel (Hebrew: `ʼădâmâh` and `ʼerets`). It signifies a restoration of their national identity and inheritance, a return to the place of God's covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This is not a temporary visit but a permanent re-establishment in their rightful home, signifying a renewal of the covenant relationship tied to the land itself.
* **"and feed them upon the mountains of Israel by the rivers, and in all the inhabited places of the country":** This final, expansive clause describes the nature of God's provision and care once His people are returned. "Feed them" (Hebrew: _râʻâh_) signifies comprehensive shepherding, including sustenance, protection, guidance, and governance. The "mountains of Israel" (Hebrew: `har` and `Yisrâʼêl`) symbolize the central, fertile highlands of the land, while "by the rivers" (Hebrew: `ʼâphîyq`) and "in all the inhabited places" (Hebrew: `môwshâb`) "of the country" (Hebrew: `ʼerets`) indicate a widespread and abundant provision throughout the entire territory. This portrays a holistic flourishing—physical, spiritual, and communal—under God's direct, benevolent rule, ensuring security and prosperity in every corner of their restored homeland.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 34:13 is rich in **Imagery**, primarily drawing on the **shepherd-sheep metaphor** that pervades the entire chapter. God is implicitly portrayed as the diligent Shepherd, while Israel is His scattered flock. The actions of "bringing out," "gathering," and "feeding" are quintessential pastoral duties, vividly illustrating God's tender yet powerful care. The mention of "mountains of Israel," "rivers," and "inhabited places" creates a strong **sense of place** and **geographic specificity**, grounding the abstract promise of restoration in concrete, tangible locations. This use of **concrete detail** makes the promise more immediate and reassuring to the exiles, painting a vivid picture of future flourishing. Furthermore, the verse employs **Parallelism** through its repetitive structure of divine action verbs ("bring out," "gather," "bring," "feed"), emphasizing the certainty and multi-faceted nature of God's intervention. The contrast between the initial state of dispersion ("from the people," "from the countries") and the promised state of re-gathering and flourishing ("to their own land," "upon the mountains of Israel") creates a powerful **Antithesis**, highlighting the dramatic reversal God will enact.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 34:13 stands as a profound testament to God's covenant faithfulness and His active role as the ultimate Shepherd of His people. It underscores the theological truth that even when human leaders fail and God's people suffer the consequences of sin and dispersion, His redemptive purposes prevail. The re-gathering and re-establishment in the land are not merely political or physical events but deeply spiritual acts, demonstrating God's commitment to restore His relationship with Israel and provide for them holistically. This divine initiative lays the groundwork for the promise of a righteous Davidic King (Ezekiel 34:23-24), who will embody God's perfect shepherding, ultimately pointing to the Messiah. The prophecy assures us that God is actively involved in the lives of His people, providing hope and security even in the most desolate circumstances.

* [Ezekiel 36:24](/ezekiel/36-24 "Ezekiel 36:24 - God's Promise to Gather Israel from All Nations")
* [Jeremiah 23:3](/jeremiah/23-3 "Jeremiah 23:3 - God Gathers the Remnant of His Flock")
* [Isaiah 40:11](/isaiah/40-11 "Isaiah 40:11 - The Lord Tends His Flock Like a Shepherd")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 34:13 offers profound spiritual nourishment for believers today, reminding us of God's unwavering commitment to His people, both corporately and individually. In a world often marked by broken leadership, societal fragmentation, and personal feelings of displacement or lostness, this verse serves as a powerful anchor of hope. It assures us that our God is not a distant deity but an active, compassionate Shepherd who seeks out His scattered sheep, gathers them, and brings them to a place of security and abundant provision. For those feeling isolated or adrift, it speaks to God's desire to bring us into His fold, where true belonging and spiritual nourishment are found. It challenges us to trust in God's ultimate leadership, especially when human systems fail, and to find our ultimate security not in worldly circumstances but in His unfailing care. Moreover, it encourages us to participate in God's ongoing work of gathering and nurturing His church, reflecting His shepherding heart to those around us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you feel scattered or un-shepherded, and how does the promise of God's active re-gathering bring you comfort?**
* **How does God's promise to "feed them upon the mountains of Israel" speak to your understanding of His provision, beyond just physical needs?**
* **What does this verse teach you about God's faithfulness, even when human leaders or circumstances disappoint?**

### FAQ
**Was this prophecy fulfilled only by the return from Babylonian exile?**

Answer: While Ezekiel 34:13 certainly found an initial, partial fulfillment in the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon to their homeland (as described in books like [Ezra](/ezra/1 "Ezra 1 - The Return from Exile") and [Nehemiah](/nehemiah/1 "Nehemiah 1 - Nehemiah's Prayer for Jerusalem")), biblical scholars generally understand this prophecy, along with many others in Ezekiel, to have a multi-layered fulfillment. The language of a comprehensive re-gathering "from the countries" and enduring provision "in all the inhabited places of the country" suggests a more complete and ultimate restoration that extends beyond the immediate post-exilic period. Many interpret it as pointing towards a future, eschatological gathering of Israel, possibly connected to the end times, and spiritually, to Christ's ongoing work of gathering His church from all nations.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 34:13 finds its most profound and ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd. While the prophecy speaks of a physical re-gathering of Israel, it also establishes the divine pattern of God's personal intervention to shepherd His flock, a role perfectly embodied by Christ. Jesus declares in [John 10:11](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - Jesus, the Good Shepherd"), "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep," directly fulfilling the implicit promise of God as the ultimate, self-sacrificing Shepherd who cares for His flock. Just as God promised to "bring them out from the people, and gather them from the countries," Jesus actively gathers His sheep from "every tribe and language and people and nation," as stated in [Revelation 5:9](/revelation/5-9 "Revelation 5:9 - The Redeemed from Every Nation"), bringing them into His one fold, as He proclaims in [John 10:16](/john/10-16 "John 10:16 - One Flock, One Shepherd"). The promise to "feed them upon the mountains of Israel by the rivers, and in all the inhabited places of the country" is spiritually realized in Christ, who provides spiritual nourishment through His Word and Sacraments, leading His followers to "green pastures" and "still waters," reminiscent of [Psalm 23:2](/psalm/23-2 "Psalm 23:2 - The Lord is My Shepherd"). He is the true land, the ultimate place of security and provision, where His people find eternal rest and abundant life, for He is the "bread of life" as declared in [John 6:35](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life"). Thus, Ezekiel's vision of God's perfect shepherding finds its glorious reality in Christ, who gathers, protects, and sustains His redeemed people.

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 28:25

Thus saith the Lord GOD; When I shall have gathered the house of Israel from the people among whom they are scattered, and shall be sanctified in them in the sight of the heathen, then shall they dwell in their land that I have given to my servant Jacob.

Ezekiel 28:26

And they shall dwell safely therein, and shall build houses, and plant vineyards; yea, they shall dwell with confidence, when I have executed judgments upon all those that despise them round about them; and they shall know that I [am] the LORD their God.

Ezekiel 11:17

Therefore say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; I will even gather you from the people, and assemble you out of the countries where ye have been scattered, and I will give you the land of Israel.

Isaiah 11:11

And it shall come to pass in that day, [that] the Lord shall set his hand again the second time to recover the remnant of his people, which shall be left, from Assyria, and from Egypt, and from Pathros, and from Cush, and from Elam, and from Shinar, and from Hamath, and from the islands of the sea.

Isaiah 11:16

And there shall be an highway for the remnant of his people, which shall be left, from Assyria; like as it was to Israel in the day that he came up out of the land of Egypt.

Zephaniah 3:19

Behold, at that time I will undo all that afflict thee: and I will save her that halteth, and gather her that was driven out; and I will get them praise and fame in every land where they have been put to shame.

Zephaniah 3:20

At that time will I bring you [again], even in the time that I gather you: for I will make you a name and a praise among all people of the earth, when I turn back your captivity before your eyes, saith the LORD.