Ezekiel 36:37

KJV

Thus saith the Lord GOD; I will yet [for] this be enquired of by the house of Israel, to do [it] for them; I will increase them with men like a flock.

KJV (with Strong's)

Thus saith {H559} the Lord {H136} GOD {H3069}; I will yet for this be enquired {H1875} of by the house {H1004} of Israel {H3478}, to do {H6213} it for them; I will increase {H7235} them with men {H120} like a flock {H6629}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"Adonai ELOHIM says, 'In addition, I will let the house of Isra'el pray to me to do this for them: to increase their numbers like sheep -

Berean Standard Bible

This is what the Lord GOD says: Once again I will hear the plea of the house of Israel and do for them this: I will multiply their people like a flock.

American Standard Version

Thus saith the Lord Jehovah: For this, moreover, will I be inquired of by the house of Israel, to do it for them: I will increase them with men like a flock.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 36:37 presents a profound theological truth, revealing that even in the face of God's unwavering and sovereign promises of restoration for the house of Israel, He desires and expects His people to actively seek Him in prayer for their fulfillment. This divine invitation to intercession underscores a dynamic partnership, culminating in God's pledge to dramatically increase His people, transforming their desolate state into one of flourishing abundance, reminiscent of a vast and prosperous flock.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezekiel 36 marks a significant turning point in the prophet's message, shifting from pronouncements of judgment against Israel and the surrounding nations to a glorious vision of future restoration and renewal. Prior to this verse, the Lord elaborates on His comprehensive plan to regather Israel from exile, cleanse them from their idolatry, and bestow upon them a new heart and spirit, enabling them to walk in His statutes [Ezekiel 36:24-27](/ezekiel/36-24-27 "Ezekiel 36:24-27 - Restoration and a New Heart"). He promises to restore their land, make it fruitful, and reverse the shame of desolation among the nations [Ezekiel 36:28-36](/ezekiel/36-28-36 "Ezekiel 36:28-36 - Land's Renewal and God's Glory"). Within this sweeping panorama of divine initiative, verse 37 introduces a crucial element: God's predetermined will does not negate the necessity of human prayer. It acts as a bridge, demonstrating that the very promises God makes are intended to elicit a response of earnest seeking from His people, leading to their visible increase and flourishing.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecies of Ezekiel were delivered during the traumatic period of the Babylonian exile (circa 597-538 BCE). Jerusalem had been destroyed, the temple lay in ruins, and the people of Israel were scattered, diminished, and deeply demoralized, questioning God's faithfulness and their own future. In this context of national devastation and demographic decline, the promise of return, spiritual cleansing, and especially "increase... like a flock" would have resonated as an incredibly potent symbol of hope and reversal of their fortunes. The imagery of a "flock" (Hebrew: _tsôʼn_) was deeply embedded in an agrarian society, signifying prosperity, security, and the careful stewardship of a shepherd. The concept of "enquired of" (Hebrew: _dârash_) reflects the ancient Near Eastern practice of consulting deities or prophets for divine will, but here it is uniquely God inviting His people to seek Him for what He has already purposed, transforming a common cultural practice into a covenantal dynamic.
* **Key Themes:** This pivotal verse powerfully articulates several overarching themes central to Ezekiel and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights the profound **paradox of divine sovereignty and human responsibility**. God explicitly states His intention to act ("I will yet... to do it for them"), yet simultaneously declares that He will be "enquired of" for this very action, underscoring that His predetermined will does not negate the vital role and efficacy of human prayer. Secondly, it emphasizes **God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises**, demonstrating that despite Israel's persistent unfaithfulness and subsequent exile, God remains committed to His redemptive plan for His people and their land. This commitment is rooted in His desire to vindicate His holy name among the nations, as previously stated in [Ezekiel 36:22-23](/ezekiel/36-22-23 "Ezekiel 36:22-23 - God's Name Vindicated"). Thirdly, the verse powerfully conveys the theme of **restoration and abundance**, promising a dramatic reversal of the desolation and decimation caused by the exile, leading to a state of flourishing, both spiritually and numerically. This echoes ancient covenant promises of multiplication, such as those made to Abraham in [Genesis 12:2](/genesis/12-2 "Genesis 12:2 - The Abrahamic Covenant") and [Genesis 22:17](/genesis/22-17 "Genesis 22:17 - Abraham's Descendants Multiplied").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **enquired (Hebrew, _dârash'_):** From H1875, this primitive root means "to tread or frequent," and by implication, "to seek or ask," and specifically "to worship." It conveys an active, diligent pursuit, a searching out, or a consulting. In the context of Ezekiel 36:37, it signifies that God desires His people to earnestly and actively seek Him through prayer and supplication for the fulfillment of His declared intentions. This pursuit demonstrates faith, dependence, and a participatory alignment with His divine plan, rather than a passive waiting or an attempt to persuade a reluctant God.
* **house (Hebrew, _bayith'_):** From H1004, this term primarily refers to a dwelling or physical structure, but its semantic range is vast, extending to "family," "household," or even a "temple." When used in the phrase "house of Israel," it signifies the entire nation, emphasizing their corporate identity as God's covenant people. This collective understanding underscores that God's promise of restoration and the corresponding call to prayer are directed to the community as a whole, highlighting their corporate responsibility and the communal nature of God's redemptive work.
* **flock (Hebrew, _tsôʼn'_):** From H6629, this collective noun typically refers to sheep or goats. Figuratively, as used here, it symbolizes multiplication, prosperity, and the careful, protective tending of a shepherd. When applied to "men," it vividly portrays a vast, thriving, and well-ordered population, reminiscent of a shepherd's abundant and well-cared-for herd. This imagery powerfully conveys God's intention to reverse the demographic decimation suffered during the exile, bringing about a flourishing, numerous people who are under His benevolent care and provision.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Thus saith the Lord GOD; I will yet for this be enquired of by the house of Israel, to do it for them;":** This opening clause establishes the absolute divine authority and certainty of the pronouncement through the **Divine Oracle Formula** "Thus saith the Lord GOD." The subsequent declaration, "I will yet for this be enquired of," reveals a profound theological principle: God, who has already sovereignly decreed His intentions for Israel's restoration, nonetheless requires His people to seek Him in prayer for the actualization of these very promises. The Hebrew verb _dârash_ ("enquired of") implies an active, diligent seeking. This is not about changing God's immutable mind, but rather about His people aligning their desires with His, demonstrating faith, dependence, and active participation in His sovereign plan. It underscores the dynamic, interactive nature of the covenantal relationship where divine initiative invites human response.
* **"I will increase them with men like a flock.":** This second clause specifies the glorious nature of the restoration God intends to bring about. Following the severe decimation and dispersion of the Babylonian exile, God promises a remarkable demographic resurgence. The phrase "increase them with men" (from _râbâh_ and _ʼâdâm_) signifies a vast multiplication of the population, reversing the effects of judgment and desolation. The powerful **Simile** "like a flock" (from _tsôʼn_) vividly portrays this increase as abundant, prosperous, and well-ordered, akin to a thriving herd under the careful tending of a good shepherd. It speaks to God's desire for His people to flourish numerically and physically, fulfilling ancient covenant promises of fruitfulness and signifying a return to a state of blessing and divine provision.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 36:37 is rich with potent literary devices that amplify its theological message. The opening phrase, "Thus saith the Lord GOD," functions as a powerful **Divine Oracle Formula**, imbuing the subsequent declaration with absolute authority and divine certainty, leaving no doubt as to its origin and immutability. The verse also presents a profound **Paradox** or **Antinomy** between divine sovereignty and human agency: God explicitly states His intention to act ("I will yet... to do it for them") yet simultaneously calls for human intercession ("I will yet for this be enquired of"). This tension highlights the mysterious yet vital interplay between God's predetermined will and the necessity of human prayer, inviting active participation rather than passive waiting. Finally, the **Simile** "like a flock" (tsôʼn) is highly effective. It evokes rich imagery of abundance, prosperity, and careful pastoral care, powerfully conveying the comprehensive and nurturing nature of God's promised demographic restoration after a period of severe loss and scattering.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 36:37 articulates a foundational truth about the dynamic relationship between God's sovereign will and human prayer. It teaches that while God's plans are immutable and His promises are certain, He has graciously ordained prayer as a means through which His people participate in the fulfillment of those plans. This is not an act of persuading a reluctant God, but rather an act of faith, dependence, and alignment with His revealed will, demonstrating a vibrant, interactive covenant relationship. The promised increase, "like a flock," speaks to God's desire for the flourishing and multiplication of His people, a theme deeply rooted in His original blessing to humanity in creation and His covenant with Abraham, signifying life, blessing, and the establishment of His kingdom on earth.

* [Jeremiah 29:12-13](/jeremiah/29-12-13 "Jeremiah 29:12-13 - Seeking God for His Plans")
* [Matthew 7:7-8](/matthew/7-7-8 "Matthew 7:7-8 - Ask, Seek, Knock")
* [James 4:2-3](/james/4-2-3 "James 4:2-3 - You Do Not Have Because You Do Not Ask")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 36:37 offers a profound invitation and a challenging paradigm for believers today. It reminds us that prayer is far more than a last resort or a mere means to inform God of our needs; it is a vital, active partnership in His ongoing work in the world. Even when God has clearly revealed His will or made an explicit promise, He desires our earnest, persistent seeking. This teaches us profound humility, deep dependence on His power, and the critical importance of aligning our hearts and prayers with His divine purposes. For individuals, families, or communities facing desolation, barrenness, or decline, this verse offers immense hope: God is the one who can bring abundant increase and restoration, even from the most dire circumstances. Our role is to inquire of Him, to seek His face with diligence and faith, and to trust that He delights in multiplying His blessings upon His people, transforming barrenness into flourishing.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does it truly mean for God to "be enquired of" for something He has already promised to do, and how does this shape my prayer life?**
* **How does this verse challenge my understanding of prayer – is it primarily about changing God's mind or aligning my will with His?**
* **In what specific areas of my life, family, or community do I long for God's increase and restoration "like a flock"? How can I actively seek Him for these things with persistent faith?**
* **How does the tension between divine sovereignty and human responsibility, as presented in this verse, inform my faith and motivate my actions?**

### FAQ
**Does God really need us to pray for things He has already decided to do?**

Answer: This is a common and profound question that Ezekiel 36:37 directly addresses. It's not that God *needs* our prayers in the sense that He is unable to act without them, for He is sovereign and omnipotent. Rather, God, in His infinite wisdom and love, has chosen to involve humanity in the outworking of His sovereign plans. Prayer, in this context, is a means by which we express our dependence, demonstrate our faith, and actively participate in His divine purposes. It cultivates a deeper, more intimate relationship with Him, aligns our hearts with His will, and prepares us to receive and steward the blessings He intends to give. This dynamic is seen throughout Scripture, where God's promises often precede and prompt the fervent prayers of His people, as exemplified by Daniel's prayer for the fulfillment of Jeremiah's prophecy in [Daniel 9:2-3](/daniel/9-2-3 "Daniel 9:2-3 - Daniel's Prayer for Fulfillment of Prophecy").

**What does "increase them with men like a flock" signify beyond just population growth?**

Answer: While the primary meaning certainly involves a significant demographic increase after the severe decimation of the Babylonian exile, the imagery of "like a flock" (Hebrew: _tsôʼn_) carries much deeper and richer connotations. In the biblical context, a flock symbolizes not only multiplication but also prosperity, security, and the careful, nurturing care of a shepherd. Therefore, this promise signifies not just more people, but a thriving, well-ordered, and blessed community. It implies a return to a state of flourishing, abundance, and divine provision, where the people are gathered, protected, and multiplied under God's watchful eye, much like a good shepherd tends his prosperous sheep. This goes beyond mere numbers to encompass the overall well-being, spiritual vitality, and comprehensive blessing of the nation, reflecting God's desire for His people to live in full abundance and security, as beautifully depicted in [Psalm 23:1-2](/psalm/23-1-2 "Psalm 23:1-2 - The Lord is My Shepherd").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 36:37, with its emphasis on divine initiative met by human supplication for the increase and restoration of God's people, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ and the establishment of His Church. The "house of Israel" here foreshadows the spiritual Israel, the Church, which is composed of both Jews and Gentiles united in Christ, forming one new humanity. God's promise to "increase them with men like a flock" is gloriously realized in the [Great Commission](/matthew/28-18-20 "Matthew 28:18-20 - The Great Commission"), where Jesus commands His disciples to "make disciples of all nations," leading to the exponential growth of the early Church as recorded in [Acts 2:41](/acts/2-41 "Acts 2:41 - Three Thousand Added") and throughout the book of Acts. Furthermore, the paradox of God's sovereignty and human prayer is perfectly embodied in Christ Himself, who, though fully God, consistently prayed to the Father, demonstrating perfect alignment with divine will and inviting His followers to do the same, as seen in His High Priestly Prayer in [John 17](/john/17 "John 17 - Jesus' High Priestly Prayer"). The spiritual cleansing and the bestowal of a new heart and spirit promised in [Ezekiel 36:26-27](/ezekiel/36-26-27 "Ezekiel 36:26-27 - A New Heart and Spirit") are accomplished through Christ's atoning sacrifice on the cross and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, enabling believers to truly seek God and live in obedience. Thus, the ultimate "flock" that God increases is the redeemed community, gathered, protected, and shepherded by Christ, the Good Shepherd, who lays down His life for His sheep and knows them by name [John 10:11](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - Jesus the Good Shepherd") and [John 10:27-28](/john/10-27-28 "John 10:27-28 - My Sheep Hear My Voice").

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 14:3

Son of man, these men have set up their idols in their heart, and put the stumblingblock of their iniquity before their face: should I be enquired of at all by them?

Hebrews 10:21

And [having] an high priest over the house of God;

Hebrews 10:22

Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.

1 John 5:14

¶ And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:

Zechariah 10:6

And I will strengthen the house of Judah, and I will save the house of Joseph, and I will bring them again to place them; for I have mercy upon them: and they shall be as though I had not cast them off: for I [am] the LORD their God, and will hear them.

Zechariah 10:9

And I will sow them among the people: and they shall remember me in far countries; and they shall live with their children, and turn again.

James 4:2

Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not.