Ezekiel 38:22

KJV

And I will plead against him with pestilence and with blood; and I will rain upon him, and upon his bands, and upon the many people that [are] with him, an overflowing rain, and great hailstones, fire, and brimstone.

KJV (with Strong's)

And I will plead {H8199} against him with pestilence {H1698} and with blood {H1818}; and I will rain {H4305} upon him, and upon his bands {H102}, and upon the many {H7227} people {H5971} that are with him, an overflowing {H7857} rain {H1653}, and great hailstones {H417}{H68}, fire {H784}, and brimstone {H1614}.

Complete Jewish Bible

I will judge him with plague and with blood. I will cause torrential rain to fall on him, his troops and the many peoples with him, along with huge hailstones, fire and sulfur.

Berean Standard Bible

I will execute judgment upon him with plague and bloodshed. I will pour out torrents of rain, hailstones, fire, and sulfur on him and on his troops and on the many nations with him.

American Standard Version

And with pestilence and with blood will I enter into judgment with him; and I will rain upon him, and upon his hordes, and upon the many peoples that are with him, an overflowing shower, and great hailstones, fire, and brimstone.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 38:22 presents a dramatic and decisive declaration of God's direct intervention and overwhelming judgment against Gog and his formidable confederacy, who presumptuously invade the land of Israel in the eschatological "latter days." This verse meticulously details a series of divinely orchestrated, supernatural calamities—including pestilence, widespread bloodshed, torrential and destructive rain, massive hailstones, and consuming fire and brimstone—all unleashed directly by the Lord. It serves as an emphatic testament to divine sovereignty, demonstrating that no earthly power, however vast or mighty, can withstand the Lord's righteous indignation or His unwavering commitment to defend His chosen people, ultimately revealing His unparalleled holiness and glory to all nations.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezekiel 38:22 stands as the climactic moment of God's direct and devastating intervention in the prophetic narrative concerning Gog's invasion of Israel, a narrative meticulously detailed across [Ezekiel 38](/ezekiel/38 "Ezekiel 38 - The Prophecy Against Gog of Magog") and [Ezekiel 39](/ezekiel/39 "Ezekiel 39 - God's Judgment on Gog"). The preceding verses ([Ezekiel 38:1-17](/ezekiel/38-1-17 "Ezekiel 38:1-17 - Gog's Invasion Foretold and Described")) meticulously describe the assembly of this formidable, multi-national army, led by Gog from the land of Magog, against a seemingly defenseless Israel dwelling securely. God's righteous fury is explicitly stated to rise in His nostrils in [Ezekiel 38:18](/ezekiel/38-18 "Ezekiel 38:18 - God's Wrath Aroused"), followed by a cataclysmic, global earthquake in [Ezekiel 38:19-20](/ezekiel/38-19-20 "Ezekiel 38:19-20 - The Great Earthquake and Divine Fury"). Verse 22 then outlines the specific, overwhelming means by which God Himself will "plead against" Gog, executing a comprehensive and catastrophic judgment that leaves no doubt about the divine hand at work. This divine judgment sets the stage for God's ultimate glorification among the nations, as powerfully declared in [Ezekiel 38:23](/ezekiel/38-23 "Ezekiel 38:23 - God's Glory Revealed Through Judgment").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** While the prophecy of Gog and Magog is distinctly eschatological, pointing to the "latter days" ([Ezekiel 38:8](/ezekiel/38-8 "Ezekiel 38:8 - In the Latter Days")), its imagery and themes are deeply rooted in the historical and cultural understanding of warfare and divine intervention prevalent in the ancient Near East. In Ezekiel's time, the rise and fall of empires were often attributed to the favor or disfavor of their respective deities, and the concept of a divine warrior intervening on behalf of His people was a potent theological idea. The methods of judgment described in this verse—pestilence, hailstones, fire, and brimstone—are not arbitrary but echo past divine judgments recorded in Israel's history, such as the plagues on Egypt ([Exodus 9:23-24](/exodus/9-23-24 "Exodus 9:23-24 - Hail and Fire in Egypt")) or the cataclysmic destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah ([Genesis 19:24](/genesis/19-24 "Genesis 19:24 - Fire and Brimstone on Sodom and Gomorrah")). This historical and cultural context emphasizes that God's actions are consistent with His character as a righteous judge who defends His covenant people against their oppressors, demonstrating His absolute supremacy over all earthly powers and pagan deities.
* **Key Themes:** Ezekiel 38:22 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Ezekiel and broader biblical prophecy. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Judgment**, as God directly intervenes to execute judgment, proving that He is the ultimate ruler over all nations and events. The phrase "I will plead against him" signifies a divine judicial act, underscoring God's absolute authority to bring about justice and a legal reckoning. This verse also highlights **Supernatural Divine Intervention**, showcasing God's ability to use natural phenomena (rain, hailstones, fire) and supernatural means (pestilence, blood) as instruments of His wrath, far exceeding any human military capability. Finally, the underlying purpose of this devastating judgment is the **Vindication and Protection of Israel**, ensuring that God's covenant people are preserved and that His name is glorified among the nations, fulfilling His repeated promise to be known as the Lord, a central declaration throughout [the book of Ezekiel](/ezekiel "The Book of Ezekiel - God's Glory and Judgment").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Plead (Hebrew, _shâphaṭ'_):** This word (H8199) is a primitive root meaning "to judge," "to pronounce sentence (for or against)," "to vindicate," or "to punish." By extension, it can mean "to govern" or, passively, "to litigate." In the context of Ezekiel 38:22, "I will plead against him" signifies God's active role as a divine judge who not only pronounces a verdict but also actively executes the sentence against Gog. It emphasizes that God's actions are not arbitrary but a righteous, judicial response to Gog's insolent invasion, a legal and moral reckoning that demonstrates God's absolute authority.
* **Bands (Hebrew, _ʼaggâph'_):** Derived from a root suggesting "impending" or "a cover/heap," this term (H102) is used in the plural to refer to "wings of an army" or "crowds of troops." The inclusion of "his bands" alongside "the many people" underscores the comprehensive nature of God's judgment, which will fall not only on Gog himself but also on the entirety of his vast military forces and the multitudes accompanying them. This signifies a complete and utter destruction of the invading host, leaving no part of the enemy spared.
* **Overflowing Rain (Hebrew, _shâṭaph geshem'_):** The term "overflowing" (H7857, _shâṭaph_) is a primitive root meaning "to gush," "to inundate," "to cleanse," "to gallop," or "to conquer." When combined with "rain" (H1653, _geshem_), it describes a torrential, overwhelming downpour, a deluge of immense volume and destructive force. This is not merely heavy rain but a catastrophic flood, emphasizing the sheer scale and intensity of God's judgment, which will literally sweep away and drown the enemy forces, leaving no escape and ensuring total annihilation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And I will plead against him with pestilence and with blood;":** This opening clause immediately establishes God as the active agent and supreme judge. The phrase "I will plead against him" (from _shâphaṭ_) highlights God's judicial role, indicating that Gog's audacious invasion is a direct affront that warrants divine judgment. The methods of judgment—"pestilence" (widespread disease, H1698, _deber_) and "blood" (bloodshed, H1818, _dâm_)—are common biblical expressions of divine wrath, signifying a massive loss of life and a chaotic, internal collapse within the enemy ranks, possibly through widespread illness, infighting, or a combination of both, leading to self-destruction.
* **"and I will rain upon him, and upon his bands, and upon the many people that [are] with him,":** This clause expands the scope of God's judgment from internal collapse to an external, atmospheric assault. The phrase "I will rain upon him" signifies God's direct and absolute control over the elements, turning them into instruments of His wrath. The judgment is comprehensive and indiscriminate, targeting Gog himself, his military "bands" (H102, _ʼaggâph_), and "the many people" (H7227, _rab_ H5971, _ʻam_) that constitute his immense army. This emphasizes that no one in the vast confederacy, from the leader to the common soldier, will escape God's all-encompassing wrath.
* **"an overflowing rain, and great hailstones, fire, and brimstone.":** This final clause specifies the precise nature of the atmospheric judgment, building in intensity and destructive power. "An overflowing rain" (H7857, _shâṭaph_ H1653, _geshem_) denotes a torrential, destructive deluge that will overwhelm the enemy. This is immediately followed by "great hailstones" (H417, _ʼelgâbîysh_ H68, _ʼeben_), indicating massive, destructive chunks of ice capable of crushing and devastating. The climax of this divine assault is the "fire" (H784, _ʼêsh_) and "brimstone" (H1614, _gophrîyth_), a combination reminiscent of the judgment on Sodom and Gomorrah. This signifies utter, consuming, and irreversible destruction, leaving nothing but desolation and demonstrating God's absolute power to annihilate His enemies.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 38:22 is rich in **Imagery**, painting a vivid and terrifying picture of catastrophic divine judgment. The descriptions of "pestilence," "blood," "overflowing rain," "great hailstones," "fire," and "brimstone" appeal directly to the reader's senses, conveying the overwhelming and inescapable nature of God's wrath. The use of **Hyperbole** is evident in the sheer scale of the destruction implied, suggesting a level of devastation that transcends normal warfare, underscoring the omnipotence of God and the futility of resisting Him. The entire passage functions as a **Theophany**, a dramatic and visible manifestation of God's presence and power, as He directly intervenes in human affairs through supernatural means to defend His people and glorify His name. Furthermore, the mention of "fire, and brimstone" serves as a powerful **Allusion** to previous divine judgments, particularly the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah in [Genesis 19:24](/genesis/19-24 "Genesis 19:24 - Fire and Brimstone on Sodom and Gomorrah"), signaling that this future judgment on Gog will be of similar, if not greater, severity and finality. The cumulative effect of these devices is to impress upon the audience the absolute sovereignty, terrifying holiness, and unyielding justice of Yahweh.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 38:22 serves as a profound theological statement on God's unwavering sovereignty, His righteous judgment, and His covenant faithfulness. It underscores that despite the apparent power and numerical superiority of earthly adversaries, God remains the ultimate authority, capable of dismantling any opposition with supernatural ease. The divine judgment described is not arbitrary but a just response to the hubris and aggression of those who seek to defy God and harm His people. This passage reinforces the biblical truth that God will ultimately vindicate His name and defend His chosen ones, demonstrating His holiness and glory to all nations, leaving no doubt that He is the Lord. This future event serves as a powerful reminder that all human empires and plans are subject to the divine will, and God's ultimate justice will prevail, ensuring that His purposes are accomplished and His people are secured.

* [Genesis 19:24](/genesis/19-24 "The Lord Rains Fire and Brimstone on Sodom and Gomorrah")
* [Zechariah 14:3](/zechariah/14-3 "The Lord Will Fight Against the Nations")
* [Revelation 20:8-9](/revelation/20-8-9 "Gog and Magog in the End Times")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 38:22, though describing a future eschatological event, offers timeless truths that resonate deeply with believers today. It provides immense comfort and assurance, reminding us that God is ultimately in control of all history and every earthly power. In a world often marked by geopolitical turmoil, threats, and uncertainties, this verse calls us to place our unwavering trust not in human strength, military might, or political alliances, but in the omnipotent God who "pleads against" His enemies and defends His people with supernatural power. It encourages us to live with confident hope, knowing that divine justice will ultimately prevail over all forms of evil, oppression, and rebellion against God's righteous rule. This vivid portrayal of God's holiness and power should also inspire a profound reverence for Him, fostering a deeper commitment to righteous living and a greater sense of urgency in sharing the truth of His sovereignty and salvation with a world desperately in need of it. The certainty of God's ultimate victory empowers us to persevere through present trials, knowing that our God is faithful to His promises and will ultimately establish His perfect kingdom, where justice and peace will reign supreme.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the imagery of God "pleading against" His enemies with natural and supernatural phenomena strengthen your understanding of His sovereignty and justice?**
* **In what specific areas of your life or the world do you need to trust more fully in God's ultimate control and justice, rather than relying on human efforts or anxieties?**
* **What practical steps can you take to live in a way that reflects your confident hope in God's faithfulness and His ultimate, undeniable victory over all forms of evil?**

### FAQ
**Is the Gog/Magog prophecy in Ezekiel 38-39 literal or symbolic?**

Answer: While prophetic literature often employs symbolic language, the detailed geographical and military descriptions in [Ezekiel 38](/ezekiel/38 "Ezekiel 38 - The Prophecy Against Gog of Magog") and [Ezekiel 39](/ezekiel/39 "Ezekiel 39 - God's Judgment on Gog") strongly suggest a future, literal invasion of Israel by a specific confederacy of nations. The divine judgment described in Ezekiel 38:22, with its specific elements like "pestilence," "hailstones," "fire," and "brimstone," is presented as a concrete, physical intervention by God that will be undeniably supernatural. Many scholars interpret this as a literal event that will occur in the "latter days" ([Ezekiel 38:8](/ezekiel/38-8 "Ezekiel 38:8 - In the Latter Days")), demonstrating God's power and holiness to the entire world. However, the exact timing and precise identities of all the nations involved remain subjects of ongoing debate among eschatological interpreters.

**When will the events described in Ezekiel 38:22 occur?**

Answer: The prophecy explicitly states that these events will take place "in the latter days" ([Ezekiel 38:8](/ezekiel/38-8 "Ezekiel 38:8 - In the Latter Days"), [Ezekiel 38:16](/ezekiel/38-16 "Ezekiel 38:16 - Gog's Invasion in the Latter Days")). This phrase is generally understood to refer to the end times, a period leading up to or coinciding with the establishment of God's kingdom on earth. Different theological perspectives place this event at various points in the eschatological timeline—some before the tribulation, some during, and others at the very end, possibly connected to the final battle described in [Revelation 20:7-9](/revelation/20-7-9 "Revelation 20:7-7 - Satan Released and Final Battle"). Regardless of the precise timing, the prophecy underscores that it is a future, divinely ordained event that will serve to glorify God's name and vindicate His people.

**How does God's use of such destructive judgment in Ezekiel 38:22 reconcile with His character of love?**

Answer: God's judgment, as seen in Ezekiel 38:22, is a profound expression of His perfect justice and holiness, which are as integral to His character as His love. While God is merciful, patient, and loving, He is also absolutely righteous and cannot tolerate evil indefinitely without compromising His very nature. The judgment on Gog is a righteous response to an audacious act of aggression against His chosen people and a direct challenge to His sovereignty and covenant faithfulness. It serves to vindicate His holy name and demonstrate His unparalleled power to a world that has largely rejected Him. This act of judgment ultimately paves the way for God's glory to be revealed and for His righteous kingdom to be established, which is an ultimate act of love for His people and for the world He intends to redeem from the pervasive effects of sin. It shows that God's love does not negate His justice, but rather, both attributes work in perfect harmony within His divine plan for cosmic redemption and restoration.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 38:22, with its dramatic portrayal of divine judgment and ultimate victory over God's enemies, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. While the prophecy describes a future, literal eschatological event, the profound principles it embodies—God's absolute sovereignty, His righteous judgment, and His unwavering protection of His people—are perfectly embodied and consummated in Christ. Jesus is the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), bearing the ultimate divine judgment for humanity's rebellion on the cross, thereby averting the "fire and brimstone" that justly awaited us ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Became Sin for Us")). Furthermore, Christ is the [King of kings and Lord of lords](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords"), who will return in power and glory to execute final judgment upon all who oppose Him and His kingdom ([Matthew 25:31-33](/matthew/25-31-33 "Matthew 25:31-33 - The Son of Man Judges the Nations")). The overwhelming destruction unleashed by God in Ezekiel 38:22 foreshadows the absolute and undeniable victory of Christ over all spiritual and earthly adversaries, including Satan, sin, and death ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Principalities")). Ultimately, the defense of Israel and the glorification of God's name in Ezekiel point to Christ as the one through whom God's covenant promises are perfectly fulfilled, and through whom His people, the church, are eternally secured and His glory fully revealed to the cosmos ([Ephesians 1:22-23](/ephesians/1-22-23 "Ephesians 1:22-23 - Christ as Head of the Church")).

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

Psalms 11:6

Upon the wicked he shall rain snares, fire and brimstone, and an horrible tempest: [this shall be] the portion of their cup.

Revelation 16:21

And there fell upon men a great hail out of heaven, [every stone] about the weight of a talent: and men blasphemed God because of the plague of the hail; for the plague thereof was exceeding great.

Ezekiel 13:11

Say unto them which daub [it] with untempered [morter], that it shall fall: there shall be an overflowing shower; and ye, O great hailstones, shall fall; and a stormy wind shall rend [it].

Jeremiah 25:31

A noise shall come [even] to the ends of the earth; for the LORD hath a controversy with the nations, he will plead with all flesh; he will give them [that are] wicked to the sword, saith the LORD.

Isaiah 66:16

For by fire and by his sword will the LORD plead with all flesh: and the slain of the LORD shall be many.

Psalms 18:12

At the brightness [that was] before him his thick clouds passed, hail [stones] and coals of fire.

Psalms 18:14

Yea, he sent out his arrows, and scattered them; and he shot out lightnings, and discomfited them.