Ezekiel 38:11

And thou shalt say, I will go up to the land of unwalled villages; I will go to them that are at rest, that dwell safely, all of them dwelling without walls, and having neither bars nor gates,

And thou shalt say {H559}, I will go up {H5927} to the land {H776} of unwalled villages {H6519}; I will go {H935} to them that are at rest {H8252}, that dwell {H3427} safely {H983}, all of them dwelling {H3427} without walls {H2346}, and having neither bars {H1280} nor gates {H1817},

You will say, "I am going to invade this land of unwalled villages; I will take by surprise these people who are at peace, living securely, all in places without walls, bars or gates.

You will say, ‘I will go up against a land of unwalled villages; I will come against a tranquil people who dwell securely, all of them living without walls or bars or gates—

and thou shalt say, I will go up to the land of unwalled villages; I will go to them that are at rest, that dwell securely, all of them dwelling without walls, and having neither bars nor gates;

Ezekiel 38:11 describes the strategic thinking of Gog, the leader from the land of Magog, as he plans an invasion against the nation of Israel in the latter days. This verse highlights the perceived vulnerability of Israel, making them an attractive target for plunder.

Context

This verse is part of a significant prophetic passage in Ezekiel chapters 38 and 39, often referred to as the "Gog and Magog" prophecy. It details a massive coalition of nations, led by Gog, that will attack Israel in a future time. Historically, ancient cities and villages were typically fortified with walls, gates, and bars for protection against invaders. The description of Israel as "unwalled villages" and dwelling "without walls, and having neither bars nor gates" signifies a period of peace and apparent security, making them an easy target for those seeking to exploit their resources. This scenario is presented as taking place after Israel has been gathered back to its land, as mentioned in Ezekiel 38:8, and is living securely.

Key Themes

  • Vulnerability and Temptation: The verse paints a picture of a nation at peace and seemingly unprotected, which becomes a prime target for a predatory invasion. Gog's rationale is based on the perceived lack of defense, assuming an easy victory and significant spoil.
  • False Security (from a human perspective): While Israel dwells "safely," this safety is, from the enemy's viewpoint, a sign of weakness and an invitation for attack. However, the broader context of the prophecy reveals that this perceived vulnerability is part of God's sovereign plan to display His power.
  • God's Orchestration: Despite Gog's malicious intent, the prophecy makes it clear that God is ultimately orchestrating these events to bring about His purposes and to manifest His glory to the nations. The invasion is allowed, not because Israel is truly defenseless, but because God will use the invasion to demonstrate His divine intervention and protection.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "unwalled villages" translates from the Hebrew word perezah (or related forms), meaning open, unprotected settlements. The description "at rest, that dwell safely" comes from the Hebrew yoshebei betach, emphasizing a state of confident security or trust. Gog interprets this security as a lack of preparation for war, seeing it as an opportune moment for attack and plunder, as further elaborated in Ezekiel 38:12.

Practical Application

Ezekiel 38:11 reminds us that even in times of apparent peace and security, dangers can lurk. For believers, this verse underscores the truth that our ultimate security comes not from physical defenses or human strength, but from God's divine protection. While nations may scheme based on perceived weaknesses, God's plan is always supreme. This prophecy encourages us to trust in God's sovereignty and His ultimate victory, knowing that He will defend His people and reveal His glory to the world, even through seemingly dire circumstances. It also highlights the importance of spiritual vigilance, recognizing that our true adversary seeks to devour, but God provides the ultimate defense (1 Peter 5:8).

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Zechariah 2:4

    And said unto him, Run, speak to this young man, saying, Jerusalem shall be inhabited [as] towns without walls for the multitude of men and cattle therein:

  • Zechariah 2:5

    For I, saith the LORD, will be unto her a wall of fire round about, and will be the glory in the midst of her.

  • Ezekiel 38:8

    After many days thou shalt be visited: in the latter years thou shalt come into the land [that is] brought back from the sword, [and is] gathered out of many people, against the mountains of Israel, which have been always waste: but it is brought forth out of the nations, and they shall dwell safely all of them.

  • Exodus 15:9

    The enemy said, I will pursue, I will overtake, I will divide the spoil; my lust shall be satisfied upon them; I will draw my sword, my hand shall destroy them.

  • Romans 3:15

    Their feet [are] swift to shed blood:

  • Judges 18:7

    ¶ Then the five men departed, and came to Laish, and saw the people that [were] therein, how they dwelt careless, after the manner of the Zidonians, quiet and secure; and [there was] no magistrate in the land, that might put [them] to shame in [any] thing; and they [were] far from the Zidonians, and had no business with [any] man.

  • Jeremiah 49:31

    Arise, get you up unto the wealthy nation, that dwelleth without care, saith the LORD, which have neither gates nor bars, [which] dwell alone.

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