Ezekiel 35:8

KJV

And I will fill his mountains with his slain [men]: in thy hills, and in thy valleys, and in all thy rivers, shall they fall that are slain with the sword.

KJV (with Strong's)

And I will fill {H4390} his mountains {H2022} with his slain {H2491} men: in thy hills {H1389}, and in thy valleys {H1516}, and in all thy rivers {H650}, shall they fall {H5307} that are slain {H2491} with the sword {H2719}.

Complete Jewish Bible

I will fill his mountains with his slain; in your hills and valleys and in all your ravines will fall those slain by the sword.

Berean Standard Bible

I will fill its mountains with the slain; those killed by the sword will fall on your hills, in your valleys, and in all your ravines.

American Standard Version

And I will fill its mountains with its slain: in thy hills and in thy valleys and in all thy watercourses shall they fall that are slain with the sword.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
This is a stark declaration of divine judgment against Mount Seir, the land of Edom, prophesying a comprehensive and devastating end for their nation. It vividly portrays the landscape—mountains, hills, valleys, and rivers—being filled with the bodies of those slain by the sword, a direct consequence of Edom's persistent and malicious hostility towards Israel. This verse underscores God's sovereign justice, demonstrating His active role in bringing retribution upon nations that oppose His people and His purposes.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a specific prophetic oracle found in [Ezekiel chapter 35](/ezekiel/35 "Ezekiel 35 - Prophecy Against Mount Seir"), which is entirely dedicated to the judgment of Mount Seir, identified with the nation of Edom. This oracle immediately follows a series of prophecies against other surrounding nations (e.g., Ammon, Moab, Tyre, Sidon, and Egypt in [Ezekiel 25-32](/ezekiel/25 "Ezekiel 25 - Oracles Against Neighboring Nations")), serving as a climactic pronouncement of divine wrath against one of Israel's most enduring and bitter enemies. Crucially, the detailed judgment against Edom in chapter 35 sets the stage for the glorious prophecies of Israel's restoration and renewal in [Ezekiel 36](/ezekiel/36 "Ezekiel 36 - Israel's Restoration") and [Ezekiel 37](/ezekiel/37 "Ezekiel 37 - The Valley of Dry Bones and Reunited Israel"), highlighting God's justice as a prerequisite for His redemptive work.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Edom, descended from Esau (Jacob's brother), had a long and deeply entrenched history of animosity towards Israel, stretching back to their patriarchal origins. This "perpetual hatred" ([Ezekiel 35:5](/ezekiel/35-5 "Ezekiel 35:5 - Edom's Perpetual Hatred")) intensified significantly during Israel's national calamities, particularly the Babylonian conquest and the fall of Jerusalem in 586 BC. Instead of showing fraternal compassion, Edom rejoiced in Judah's downfall, actively participated in plundering the land, and even sought to seize Israelite territory, as detailed in [Obadiah 1:10-14](/obadiah/1-10 "Obadiah 1:10-14 - Edom's Violence Against Jacob"). Mount Seir, Edom's mountainous homeland, was considered a formidable, almost impregnable stronghold, making the prophecy of its utter desolation particularly striking and indicative of a supernatural intervention.
* **Key Themes:** The prophecy against Edom, encapsulated in [Ezekiel 35:8](/ezekiel/35-8 "Ezekiel 35:8 - God's Judgment on Edom"), contributes to several major theological themes within Ezekiel and the broader prophetic literature. It powerfully illustrates **Divine Retribution**, emphasizing God's active and direct role ("I will fill") in bringing judgment upon nations for their actions, especially their unceasing hatred and exploitation of Israel's misfortune. The imagery of widespread death across the entire landscape highlights **Widespread Desolation**, signifying the totality and comprehensiveness of the impending destruction across the entire Edomite territory, leaving no place untouched. This judgment also underscores the severe **Consequences of Hatred**, demonstrating that persistent malevolence and rejoicing in the suffering of others ultimately lead to self-destruction. Finally, the entire oracle reaffirms God's absolute **Sovereignty** over the destinies of nations, demonstrating that no entity, regardless of its perceived strength or geographical advantage, is beyond His divine oversight and ultimate judgment, as seen throughout [Ezekiel's prophecies against the nations](/ezekiel/25 "Ezekiel 25 - Oracles Against Neighboring Nations").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **fill (Hebrew, _mâlêʼ'_):** From H4390, this primitive root means "to fill or (intransitively) be full of, in a wide application (literally and figuratively)." In Ezekiel 35:8, it denotes God's direct agency and the overwhelming abundance of the slain. It is not merely that bodies will be found, but that the very landscape will be *saturated* with them, indicating a complete and comprehensive slaughter orchestrated by divine will.
* **slain (Hebrew, _châlâl'_):** From H2491, this term refers to those "pierced (especially to death); figuratively, polluted." It specifically conveys a sense of violent, bloody death, typically in battle, rather than a natural demise. The repetition of "slain" in the verse emphasizes the brutal and military nature of the judgment, highlighting that the Edomites will fall as casualties of war.
* **fall (Hebrew, _nâphal'_):** From H5307, this primitive root means "to fall, in a great variety of applications (intransitive or causative, literal or figurative)." Here, it signifies the collapse and demise of the Edomite people, indicating their defeat and death. Coupled with "slain with the sword," it paints a picture of utter defeat where bodies are strewn across the land.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And I will fill his mountains with his slain [men]:"** This opening clause immediately establishes God's direct and active role ("I will fill") in the impending judgment. The "mountains" refer to the rugged, elevated terrain of Mount Seir, Edom's homeland, suggesting that even their natural strongholds will be overwhelmed. The phrase "his slain [men]" indicates that the destruction will be internal, affecting the Edomite people themselves, and that the sheer number of casualties will be so vast as to literally "fill" the landscape.
* **"in thy hills, and in thy valleys, and in all thy rivers,"** This clause expands the scope of the judgment, emphasizing its totality and comprehensiveness. By listing "hills" (H1389, _gibʻâh'_), "valleys" (H1516, _gayʼ'_), and "rivers" (H650, _ʼâphîyq'_), the prophecy declares that no part of Edom's territory, from its highest points to its lowest depressions and watercourses, will escape the devastation. This geographical inclusiveness underscores the completeness of the divine wrath.
* **"shall they fall that are slain with the sword."** This concluding clause reiterates the fate of the Edomites and the instrument of their demise. The repetition of "slain" (H2491, _châlâl'_) reinforces the violent nature of their death, specifically "with the sword" (H2719, _chereb'_), indicating military defeat and execution. The phrase "shall they fall" (H5307, _nâphal'_) emphasizes the inevitability and widespread nature of their collapse and death across the entire land.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 35:8 employs several powerful literary devices to convey the intensity and totality of God's judgment. **Hyperbole** is evident in the declaration that God will "fill his mountains" and all other geographical features with the slain. While not literally meaning every inch will be covered, it powerfully conveys an overwhelming and catastrophic number of casualties, far beyond typical battle losses. **Vivid Imagery** is used to paint a gruesome picture of a land saturated with dead bodies, evoking a sense of desolation and horror. The specific mention of "mountains," "hills," "valleys," and "rivers" constitutes a form of **Merism**, where two contrasting or encompassing parts represent the whole, indicating that the judgment will affect every single part of Edom's territory. Furthermore, the repetition of "slain" emphasizes the brutal and violent nature of the divine retribution, creating a sense of inescapable doom.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 35:8 stands as a profound theological statement on God's unwavering justice and His commitment to holding nations accountable for their actions, particularly their treatment of His covenant people. It reveals that God is not a passive observer but an active participant in human history, orchestrating events to fulfill His righteous decrees. The judgment against Edom serves as a universal warning that perpetual hatred, malice, and rejoicing in the misfortune of others will inevitably incur divine wrath. It underscores the principle that those who sow discord and violence will ultimately reap destruction, affirming God's moral order in the world. For the oppressed, this prophecy offers comfort, assuring them that God sees their suffering and will ultimately vindicate His people against their adversaries.

* [Obadiah 1:15](/obadiah/1-15 "Obadiah 1:15 - The Day of the Lord Against Nations")
* [Romans 12:19](/romans/12-19 "Romans 12:19 - Vengeance Belongs to God")
* [Psalm 9:16](/psalms/9-16 "Psalm 9:16 - The Lord is Known by His Justice")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 35:8, though a prophecy of ancient judgment, carries enduring lessons for contemporary believers. It serves as a potent reminder that God is a righteous judge who holds all people and nations accountable for their choices, especially those rooted in hatred, pride, and schadenfreude. We are called to examine our own hearts for any lingering animosity or secret delight in the struggles of others, recognizing that such attitudes are anathema to God's character. Instead, we are to cultivate compassion, forgiveness, and a spirit of reconciliation, even towards those who have wronged us. Furthermore, this passage encourages us to trust in God's ultimate justice, even when it seems delayed or when evil appears to triumph. It reassures us that God will indeed settle all accounts, vindicating His people and bringing justice to a broken world, reminding us to align our lives with His righteous standards rather than the fleeting advantages of worldly power or malice.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I be harboring "perpetual hatred" or ill will towards others, even subtly?**
* **How does this prophecy of divine judgment deepen my understanding of God's justice and holiness?**
* **What practical steps can I take to cultivate compassion and forgiveness, especially towards those I find difficult to love?**
* **How does trusting in God's ultimate justice impact my response to present injustices in the world?**

### FAQ
**Why was God so harsh with Edom?**

Answer: God's judgment on Edom was not arbitrary but a direct and severe consequence of their long-standing "perpetual hatred" ([Ezekiel 35:5](/ezekiel/35-5 "Ezekiel 35:5 - Edom's Perpetual Hatred")) towards Israel, their kin. This animosity culminated in their active rejoicing in Jerusalem's destruction and their opportunistic attempts to seize Israelite land during Judah's most vulnerable moment ([Obadiah 1:10-14](/obadiah/1-10 "Obadiah 1:10-14 - Edom's Violence Against Jacob")). God's judgment demonstrates His commitment to justice, His defense of His covenant people, and His absolute sovereignty over all nations, holding them accountable for their moral choices and actions.

**Does this prophecy apply to nations today?**

Answer: While the specific prophecy in Ezekiel 35 was directed at ancient Edom and has seen historical fulfillment, its underlying principles are timeless and universally applicable. It teaches that God is sovereign over all nations, that He observes their conduct, and that there are divine consequences for national pride, injustice, and malicious actions, especially against His people or His purposes. While we don't expect a literal fulfillment of "mountains filled with slain" for every nation, the principle of divine accountability and the ultimate triumph of God's justice remains relevant for all societies and governments today.

**How does this relate to God's love?**

Answer: At first glance, a prophecy of such devastating judgment might seem contradictory to God's love. However, biblical love is not merely sentimental; it is intrinsically linked to justice and holiness. God's love for His people, Israel, necessitated His righteous judgment against those who relentlessly oppressed them. Furthermore, God's judgment against evil is an expression of His perfect character, demonstrating that He will not tolerate unrepentant sin and injustice indefinitely. His judgment serves to uphold His moral order, ultimately paving the way for His redemptive purposes, as seen in the subsequent prophecies of Israel's restoration in [Ezekiel 36](/ezekiel/36 "Ezekiel 36 - Israel's Restoration").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Ezekiel 35:8 speaks of a literal judgment on ancient Edom, its profound theological implications find ultimate fulfillment and transformation in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "slain with the sword" in Edom foreshadows the ultimate defeat of sin and death, not through human warfare, but through the decisive spiritual victory achieved by Christ on the cross. He is the one who, by His own sacrifice, disarmed the powers of darkness and triumphed over them ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")). The comprehensive desolation prophesied for Edom points to the final, complete judgment that will be meted out against all unrighteousness and rebellion at the end of the age, when Christ returns as the righteous judge, with a sharp sword coming out of His mouth to strike down the nations ([Revelation 19:11-16](/revelation/19-11 "Revelation 19:11-16 - Christ as Victorious Warrior")). Moreover, just as God vindicated Israel against Edom, Christ's resurrection and ascension ensure the ultimate vindication of all who are in Him, the spiritual Israel. His kingdom will ultimately "fill" the earth, not with the slain, but with righteousness, peace, and glory, establishing a reign where justice and love perfectly coalesce ([Isaiah 9:7](/isaiah/9-7 "Isaiah 9:7 - The Everlasting Kingdom")).

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 31:12

And strangers, the terrible of the nations, have cut him off, and have left him: upon the mountains and in all the valleys his branches are fallen, and his boughs are broken by all the rivers of the land; and all the people of the earth are gone down from his shadow, and have left him.

Ezekiel 32:4

Then will I leave thee upon the land, I will cast thee forth upon the open field, and will cause all the fowls of the heaven to remain upon thee, and I will fill the beasts of the whole earth with thee.

Ezekiel 32:5

And I will lay thy flesh upon the mountains, and fill the valleys with thy height.

Ezekiel 39:4

Thou shalt fall upon the mountains of Israel, thou, and all thy bands, and the people that [is] with thee: I will give thee unto the ravenous birds of every sort, and [to] the beasts of the field to be devoured.

Ezekiel 39:5

Thou shalt fall upon the open field: for I have spoken [it], saith the Lord GOD.

Isaiah 34:2

For the indignation of the LORD [is] upon all nations, and [his] fury upon all their armies: he hath utterly destroyed them, he hath delivered them to the slaughter.

Isaiah 34:7

And the unicorns shall come down with them, and the bullocks with the bulls; and their land shall be soaked with blood, and their dust made fat with fatness.