Ezekiel 35:9

KJV

I will make thee perpetual desolations, and thy cities shall not return: and ye shall know that I [am] the LORD.

KJV (with Strong's)

I will make {H5414} thee perpetual {H5769} desolations {H8077}, and thy cities {H5892} shall not return {H7725}{H3427}: and ye shall know {H3045} that I am the LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

I will turn you into perpetual ruins; your cities will not return; and you will know that I am ADONAI.

Berean Standard Bible

I will make you a perpetual desolation, and your cities will not be inhabited. Then you will know that I am the LORD.

American Standard Version

I will make thee a perpetual desolation, and thy cities shall not be inhabited; and ye shall know that I am Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 35:9 delivers a powerful divine decree against Mount Seir, representing Edom, prophesying an enduring and irreversible state of desolation for its cities and land. This pronouncement serves as a stark testament to God's unwavering justice and His absolute sovereignty over all nations, ultimately culminating in the universal recognition of His identity as Yahweh, the LORD. The verse profoundly underscores the severe consequences of Edom's historical animosity and opportunistic malice against Israel, contrasting sharply with God's redemptive plans for His own people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezekiel 35 is strategically placed as a distinct prophetic oracle against Mount Seir (Edom), immediately following the extensive prophecies of restoration for Israel found in [Ezekiel 33](/ezekiel/33 "Ezekiel 33 - The Watchman's Role and Israel's Repentance") and [Ezekiel 34](/ezekiel/34 "Ezekiel 34 - The Good Shepherd and Israel's Restoration"). Chapter 34, in particular, portrays Yahweh as the compassionate Good Shepherd who will gather, protect, and care for His scattered flock (Israel), sharply contrasting with the failed human shepherds. Chapter 35 then pivots to address the enemies of God's people, specifically Edom, whose long-standing animosity and active participation in Judah's downfall (as noted in [Ezekiel 35:5](/ezekiel/35-5 "Ezekiel 35:5 - Edom's Ancient Hatred")) warranted severe divine retribution. This literary juxtaposition highlights God's dual commitment: to redeem His people and to justly punish those who oppose His divine purposes and harm His chosen ones. The prophecy against Edom also sets the stage for the glorious promises of restoration and renewal for Israel in [Ezekiel 36](/ezekiel/36 "Ezekiel 36 - Israel's Restoration"), emphasizing that the removal of obstacles (like Edom's malice) is an integral part of God's larger redemptive plan for His covenant people.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Edom, situated southeast of the Dead Sea in the rugged mountainous region of Mount Seir, was a nation descended from Esau, Jacob's brother, making them distant relatives of Israel. Despite this familial connection, their relationship was consistently marked by deep-seated hostility, dating back to their refusal to allow Israel passage through their land during the Exodus (cf. [Numbers 20:14-21](/numbers/20-14-21 "Numbers 20:14-21 - Edom Refuses Passage")). This "ancient hatred" (as explicitly described in [Ezekiel 35:5](/ezekiel/35-5 "Ezekiel 35:5 - Edom's Ancient Hatred")) intensified dramatically during Judah's decline and the Babylonian invasion. Edomites not only rejoiced at Jerusalem's destruction but actively participated in plundering the land and capturing fleeing Judahites, even occupying parts of Judahite territory. Culturally, Edom was renowned for its seemingly impregnable fortified cities like Petra and its strategic location along vital trade routes, which fostered a strong sense of pride and perceived invulnerability. The prophecy of their "perpetual desolations" would have been a shocking reversal of their perceived strength and a powerful message to surrounding nations about the severe consequences of opposing God's chosen people and His divine will.
* **Key Themes:** The overarching themes powerfully articulated in Ezekiel 35:9 are **Divine Justice and Retribution**, **Irreversible Judgment**, and **God's Self-Revelation and Sovereignty**. The verse emphatically declares God's unwavering commitment to holding nations accountable for their actions, particularly their malice and opportunistic aggression towards His people. Edom's "perpetual desolations" signify a judgment that is final, enduring, and without reversal, standing in stark contrast to the temporary chastisement and eventual glorious restoration promised to Israel (cf. [Ezekiel 36:33](/ezekiel/36-33 "Ezekiel 36:33 - Israel's Restoration and Abundance")). This irreversible doom underscores the profound severity of Edom's persistent sin and their active opposition to God's purposes. Crucially, the declaration "ye shall know that I am the LORD" is a recurring motif throughout the book of Ezekiel, appearing over seventy times. It signifies that the ultimate purpose of God's judgments, whether upon Israel or surrounding nations, is to reveal His true identity, unparalleled power, and absolute authority. Through the devastating destruction of Edom, God unequivocally demonstrates His supremacy to all, compelling both the Edomites and the surrounding peoples to acknowledge Yahweh's unique status as the sovereign ruler of all creation, a theme also prominently featured in passages like [Ezekiel 6:7](/ezekiel/6-7 "Ezekiel 6:7 - Knowing the LORD through Judgment").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **make (Hebrew, _nâthan'_):** H5414, a primitive root meaning "to give," used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.). In this context, it signifies God's active agency and intentionality in bringing about the desolation. It is not a passive allowance but a deliberate act of divine judgment, emphasizing God's direct involvement in orchestrating the fate of Edom.
* **desolations (Hebrew, _shᵉmâmâh'_):** H8077, meaning "devastation" or "astonishment." When paired with the idea of "perpetual" (from H5769, _ʻôwlâm_), it signifies a state of utter ruin and emptiness that is not temporary but enduring. This term conveys a profound sense of shock and awe at the extent of the destruction, referring to a land rendered uninhabitable and forgotten.
* **know (Hebrew, _yâdaʻ'_):** H3045, a primitive root meaning "to know" (properly, to ascertain by seeing), used in a great variety of senses, often implying a deep, experiential knowledge rather than mere intellectual assent. When God declares, "ye shall know that I am the LORD," it means that through the unfolding of these judgments, Edom and the surrounding nations will come to an undeniable, experiential recognition of Yahweh's (H3068, _Yᵉhôvâh_) power, authority, and unique identity. This knowledge is often born out of witnessing God's mighty acts of judgment or salvation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"I will make thee perpetual desolations":** This opening clause immediately establishes God's active and sovereign role as the executor of judgment. The "thee" refers to Mount Seir/Edom. The phrase "perpetual desolations" (Hebrew: _shamot olam_) indicates a judgment that is not temporary or cyclical but absolute, enduring, and irreversible. It implies a state of utter ruin and uninhabited waste that will last for an indefinite, perhaps eternal, period, signifying the complete eradication of Edom's national existence and prosperity.
* **"and thy cities shall not return":** This reinforces and amplifies the preceding declaration, providing a concrete manifestation of the "perpetual desolations." The phrase "shall not return" (Hebrew: _lo' tashuv_) uses the root H7725 (_shûwb_), meaning "to turn back" or "return," and H3427 (_yâshab_), meaning "to sit down, dwell, or remain." Here, it means the cities will not be rebuilt, repopulated, or restored to their former state of habitation. This stands in stark contrast to the promises of restoration given to Israel, whose cities would indeed "return" and be rebuilt (e.g., [Ezekiel 36:10](/ezekiel/36-10 "Ezekiel 36:10 - Israel's Rebuilding and Fruitfulness")). This emphasizes the finality and irreversible nature of Edom's judgment, signifying their complete and permanent demise as a viable nation.
* **"and ye shall know that I [am] the LORD":** This is the ultimate theological purpose and climactic declaration of the judgment. The phrase "ye shall know" (Hebrew: _v'yeda'tem_) signifies an experiential, undeniable recognition. Through the devastating and irreversible judgment upon Edom, both the Edomites themselves (if any survive to witness it) and, more broadly, the surrounding nations will be forced to acknowledge the supreme power, justice, and unique identity of Yahweh (H3068, _Yᵉhôvâh_), the covenant God of Israel. This declaration serves as a theophany, a profound manifestation of God's unchanging character and unassailable sovereignty through His decisive actions in history.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful literary devices to underscore the severity and purpose of God's judgment. **Hyperbole** is evident in the phrase "perpetual desolations" and "thy cities shall not return," emphasizing the extreme and enduring nature of the destruction beyond typical human experience of ruin. While some physical remnants might persist, the prophetic language conveys a sense of utter and final demise for the nation of Edom, signifying the end of their national identity and habitation. **Parallelism** is also present, as the second clause, "and thy cities shall not return," reinforces and amplifies the first, "I will make thee perpetual desolations," intensifying the message of irreversible judgment through synonymous expression. Finally, the concluding declaration, "and ye shall know that I am the LORD," functions as a profound **Theophany** or **Divine Self-Attestation**. This recurring Ezekielian formula (appearing over 70 times) reveals God's character, power, and absolute authority not through abstract theology but through concrete, undeniable historical events, making His identity known to all who witness His mighty acts.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 35:9 powerfully articulates the principle of divine retribution for national sin, particularly that which involves persistent malice and antagonism towards God's chosen people. It underscores that God is not indifferent to injustice; rather, He is a righteous judge who will hold nations accountable for their actions. The irreversible nature of Edom's desolation serves as a stark contrast to God's covenant faithfulness and restorative plans for Israel, highlighting the profound difference between a people under temporary discipline and a nation facing ultimate rejection due to deep-seated, active animosity against God's purposes. Ultimately, the verse proclaims God's unassailable sovereignty, demonstrating that even the rise and fall of nations are orchestrated or permitted by Him to reveal His majestic power and to ensure that all creation acknowledges His unique identity as the LORD.

* [Psalm 9:16](/psalm/9-16 "Psalm 9:16 - The LORD is known by His judgment")
* [Obadiah 1:10](/obadiah/1-10 "Obadiah 1:10 - Edom's Shame for Violence Against Jacob")
* [Romans 12:19](/romans/12-19 "Romans 12:19 - Vengeance is Mine, I will repay")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 35:9 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers, reminding us that God's justice is not merely an abstract concept but an active, decisive force in history. It challenges us to consider the gravity of our own attitudes, particularly towards those whom God loves, and to recognize that malice, hatred, and opportunistic exploitation carry severe spiritual consequences. The prophecy serves as a powerful deterrent against schadenfreude or taking advantage of others' misfortunes, urging us towards compassion and righteousness. More broadly, it reinforces the comforting truth that God remains sovereign over all human affairs, even amidst chaos, suffering, and apparent injustice. He sees, He knows, and He will ultimately bring about His righteous purposes, ensuring that His name is glorified and His absolute authority acknowledged by all. This understanding can instill deep peace and unwavering trust, knowing that our God is perfectly just, fully in control, and will ultimately right every wrong, even when circumstances seem overwhelming.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the irreversible judgment on Edom highlight the seriousness of "ancient hatred" and malice in God's eyes, and what implications does this have for our own hearts?**
* **In what ways might we, as individuals or communities, be tempted to rejoice in the misfortunes of others, and what warning does this verse offer against such attitudes?**
* **How does the declaration "ye shall know that I am the LORD" encourage our trust in God's ultimate sovereignty amidst the world's injustices and personal trials?**

### FAQ
**What was the "ancient hatred" of Edom against Israel mentioned in the broader context of Ezekiel 35?**

Answer: The "ancient hatred" refers to the long-standing animosity between the descendants of Esau (Edom) and Jacob (Israel). This hostility began even before their births (cf. [Genesis 25:23](/genesis/25-23 "Genesis 25:23 - Two Nations in Your Womb")) and manifested throughout their history. Key instances include Edom's refusal to allow Israel passage through their land during the Exodus (cf. [Numbers 20:14-21](/numbers/20-14-21 "Numbers 20:14-21 - Edom Refuses Passage")) and their opportunistic actions during Judah's downfall at the hands of Babylon. Instead of showing kinship, Edom actively participated in the plundering of Jerusalem and even captured fleeing Judahites, demonstrating deep-seated malice and a desire for Israel's complete destruction, as highlighted in [Ezekiel 35:5](/ezekiel/35-5 "Ezekiel 35:5 - Edom's Ancient Hatred") and the entire book of [Obadiah](/obadiah/1 "The Book of Obadiah - Prophecy Against Edom").

**How does the "perpetual desolations" of Edom differ from the judgments God brought upon Israel?**

Answer: The "perpetual desolations" for Edom signify a final and irreversible judgment, meaning their cities would not be rebuilt and their national identity would cease to exist. This contrasts sharply with God's judgments upon Israel. While Israel also faced severe punishment, including exile and the destruction of Jerusalem, God consistently promised their future restoration, return from exile, and the rebuilding of their land and cities (e.g., [Ezekiel 36:24-38](/ezekiel/36-24-38 "Ezekiel 36:24-38 - Israel's Restoration and Renewal")). The judgment on Edom was one of complete eradication, whereas for Israel, it was a disciplinary measure intended to lead to repentance and renewal of the covenant relationship, ultimately culminating in a glorious future with God.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 35:9, with its declaration of perpetual desolation and the ultimate revelation of God's sovereignty, finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in several ways. First, the judgment on Edom foreshadows the ultimate and decisive judgment that Christ, as the righteous judge, will execute upon all who persistently oppose God and His people. Just as Edom's malice led to irreversible ruin, so too will those who reject the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God") face eternal consequences (cf. [Matthew 25:41](/matthew/25-41 "Matthew 25:41 - Eternal Punishment for the Wicked")). Second, the recurring motif "ye shall know that I am the LORD" is supremely realized in Christ. Through His life, sacrificial death, glorious resurrection, and triumphant ascension, Jesus perfectly reveals the character, power, and unique identity of God. The world is called to "know" God not merely through judgment, but through the saving grace and eternal life offered exclusively in Christ (cf. [John 17:3](/john/17-3 "John 17:3 - Eternal Life is Knowing God")). Finally, while Edom faced perpetual desolation, Christ's redemptive work ensures perpetual restoration and an eternal inheritance for His people. He is the Good Shepherd who gathers His flock (echoing the themes of [Ezekiel 34](/ezekiel/34 "Ezekiel 34 - The Good Shepherd")), not to judgment, but to eternal life and an [imperishable, undefiled, and unfading inheritance](/1_peter/1-4 "1 Peter 1:4 - An Inheritance Imperishable"). In Christ, the promise of God's sovereign rule is not merely a threat of judgment for His enemies, but a glorious assurance of salvation, reconciliation, and eternal life for all who believe, culminating in the day when [every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord](/philippians/2-10-11 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow and Confess Jesus as Lord"), to the glory of God the Father.

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 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.

Malachi 1:3

And I hated Esau, and laid his mountains and his heritage waste for the dragons of the wilderness.

Malachi 1:4

Whereas Edom saith, We are impoverished, but we will return and build the desolate places; thus saith the LORD of hosts, They shall build, but I will throw down; and they shall call them, The border of wickedness, and, The people against whom the LORD hath indignation for ever.

Ezekiel 35:4

I will lay thy cities waste, and thou shalt be desolate, and thou shalt know that I [am] the LORD.

Ezekiel 6:7

And the slain shall fall in the midst of you, and ye shall know that I [am] the LORD.

Ezekiel 7:4

And mine eye shall not spare thee, neither will I have pity: but I will recompense thy ways upon thee, and thine abominations shall be in the midst of thee: and ye shall know that I [am] the LORD.

Zephaniah 2:9

Therefore [as] I live, saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, Surely Moab shall be as Sodom, and the children of Ammon as Gomorrah, [even] the breeding of nettles, and saltpits, and a perpetual desolation: the residue of my people shall spoil them, and the remnant of my people shall possess them.