Ezekiel 38:4

KJV

And I will turn thee back, and put hooks into thy jaws, and I will bring thee forth, and all thine army, horses and horsemen, all of them clothed with all sorts [of armour, even] a great company [with] bucklers and shields, all of them handling swords:

KJV (with Strong's)

And I will turn thee back {H7725}, and put {H5414} hooks {H2397} into thy jaws {H3895}, and I will bring thee forth {H3318}, and all thine army {H2428}, horses {H5483} and horsemen {H6571}, all of them clothed {H3847} with all sorts {H4358} of armour, even a great {H7227} company {H6951} with bucklers {H6793} and shields {H4043}, all of them handling {H8610} swords {H2719}:

Complete Jewish Bible

I will turn you around, put hooks in your jaws and bring you out with all your army, horses and horsemen, all completely equipped, a great horde with breastplates and shields, all wielding swords.

Berean Standard Bible

I will turn you around, put hooks in your jaws, and bring you out with all your army—your horses, your horsemen in full armor, and a great company armed with shields and bucklers, all brandishing their swords.

American Standard Version

and I will turn thee about, and put hooks into thy jaws, and I will bring thee forth, and all thine army, horses and horsemen, all of them clothed in full armor, a great company with buckler and shield, all of them handling swords:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 38:4 stands as a powerful declaration of divine sovereignty, revealing God's absolute control over the formidable invasion of Israel by Gog and his vast coalition in the latter days. This verse depicts God actively turning back Gog, putting hooks in his jaws, and bringing him forth with his immense, fully armed army of horses and horsemen. It underscores that this seemingly hostile military campaign is not an independent act of aggression but a divinely orchestrated event, meticulously planned by God to fulfill His ultimate purposes and manifest His glory to the nations.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezekiel 38:4 is situated at the very beginning of the detailed prophecy concerning Gog of Magog, spanning [Ezekiel 38](/ezekiel/38 "Ezekiel 38 - The Prophecy of Gog and Magog") and [Ezekiel 39](/ezekiel/39 "Ezekiel 39 - God's Judgment on Gog"). This dramatic vision immediately follows the profound promises of Israel's spiritual and national restoration in [Ezekiel 37](/ezekiel/37 "Ezekiel 37 - The Valley of Dry Bones and the Two Sticks"). Having depicted the miraculous regathering of the scattered nation and their spiritual revival (the "dry bones" coming to life), the narrative shifts to a climactic, future confrontation designed to demonstrate God's power to both Israel and the Gentile nations. Verse 4 specifically initiates the description of the invading force, emphasizing God's direct hand in mobilizing this seemingly unstoppable enemy.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The imagery of "hooks into thy jaws" would have been immediately recognizable to Ezekiel's audience. It refers to the common ancient Near Eastern practice of controlling powerful animals (like oxen or bears) or even captured prisoners by inserting rings or hooks into their noses or jaws, thereby leading them wherever desired. This vivid metaphor communicates absolute subjugation and control, portraying Gog not as an independent actor but as a puppet in the hands of the Almighty. While the specific identity of "Gog" and "Magog" has been debated throughout history, the prophecy's primary focus is not on precise geopolitical identification for Ezekiel's immediate audience, but on the certainty of divine intervention and the ultimate defeat of any forces arrayed against God's people. The detailed description of a vast, armored army reflects the typical military might of empires in the ancient world, making God's control over such a force all the more impressive.
* **Key Themes:** The central theme powerfully articulated in Ezekiel 38:4 is **Divine Sovereignty**. The repeated "I will" statements ("I will turn thee back," "I will put hooks," "I will bring thee forth") unequivocally assert God's absolute control over Gog and his entire military apparatus. This invasion is not a surprise to God, nor is it an independent act of human will; rather, it is an event directly orchestrated by the Lord to serve His greater purposes. This divine initiative underscores that even the most formidable and seemingly hostile forces are ultimately subservient to God's overarching plan, a truth echoed in passages like [Daniel 4:35](/daniel/4-35 "Daniel 4:35 - God's Dominion Over Kingdoms"). Furthermore, the detailed description of the army highlights the **Magnitude of the Threat**, emphasizing that God's victory will be over an overwhelming, well-equipped force, thereby magnifying His power and glory when He ultimately defeats them. This serves the overarching purpose of God's self-revelation, as stated later in the prophecy, "that the heathen may know me" ([Ezekiel 38:16](/ezekiel/38-16 "Ezekiel 38:16 - God's Purpose for Gog's Invasion")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **hooks (Hebrew, _châch'_):** (H2397) This term refers to a ring or hook, often used in the nose or lips of animals (or even prisoners) to lead or control them. In this context, it vividly illustrates God's absolute power to manipulate and direct Gog, regardless of Gog's own intentions or strength. It signifies a complete and inescapable subjugation, where Gog is compelled to move according to God's will.
* **bring thee forth (Hebrew, _yâtsâʼ'_):** (H3318) This primitive root means "to go out" or, causatively, "to bring out." Its use here emphasizes God's active and deliberate role in mobilizing Gog. It's not merely that God allows Gog to come, but that He actively "brings him forth," initiating and directing the entire movement of this vast army. This highlights the divine orchestration of the event from its very inception.
* **army (Hebrew, _chayil'_):** (H2428) This word broadly denotes a "force," whether of men, means, or resources, encompassing concepts like strength, valor, wealth, and specifically, a military host or company. Its inclusion here, alongside the detailed description of "horses and horsemen" and their extensive armor, underscores the sheer magnitude and formidable nature of the invading force. This amplifies the power of God, who can so effortlessly control such a mighty and well-prepared "army."

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And I will turn thee back,"**: This initial declaration sets the tone for divine control. God is not merely reacting to Gog but is actively intervening to direct his movements, implying a prior course of action or intention by Gog that God will reverse or redirect.
* **"and put hooks into thy jaws,"**: This powerful imagery, as discussed in the key word analysis, conveys absolute and inescapable control. Just as a handler leads a beast by a hook in its jaw, God will compel Gog to move according to His sovereign will, leaving no room for independent action or resistance.
* **"and I will bring thee forth,"**: Reiterating the theme of divine initiative, this clause emphasizes that Gog's invasion is not self-generated but is a direct consequence of God's active decree. God is the one who mobilizes and deploys this vast army.
* **"and all thine army, horses and horsemen,"**: This specifies the composition of the invading force, highlighting its military nature and the traditional components of a powerful ancient army. The inclusion of "all thine army" stresses the comprehensive nature of God's control over every part of Gog's military might.
* **"all of them clothed with all sorts [of armour, even] a great company [with] bucklers and shields,"**: This vivid description paints a picture of a massive, well-equipped, and formidable fighting force. "All sorts of armour" implies comprehensive protection, while "bucklers and shields" denote defensive capabilities. The phrase "a great company" further emphasizes the sheer numerical strength, underscoring the magnitude of the threat that God will ultimately overcome.
* **"all of them handling swords:"**: This final detail completes the picture of a battle-ready army, emphasizing their offensive capabilities. The image of every soldier "handling swords" reinforces their readiness for combat and the seriousness of the impending confrontation.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 38:4 is rich in **Imagery**, most notably the striking metaphor of "hooks into thy jaws." This vivid picture immediately conveys God's absolute, inescapable control over Gog, likening a powerful human leader to a wild beast or captured prisoner utterly subjugated by a handler. This **Anthropomorphism** attributes human-like actions of manipulation and control to God, making His sovereignty tangible and understandable. The detailed enumeration of the military components—"horses and horsemen," "all sorts of armour," "bucklers and shields," "swords"—employs **Enumeration** to build a comprehensive and formidable picture of the invading army. This serves to underscore the perceived might of the enemy, thereby magnifying the power of God who can so effortlessly "turn back" and "bring forth" such a vast and well-equipped force. The sheer scale implied by "a great company" also borders on **Hyperbole**, emphasizing the overwhelming nature of the threat to highlight God's even greater power in overcoming it.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 38:4 serves as a profound theological statement on the absolute sovereignty of God over all creation, including human history and the actions of nations. It teaches that even seemingly independent and hostile forces are ultimately instruments in God's hands, fulfilling His divine purposes. This verse dismantles any notion of chance or unbridled human autonomy, asserting that God is the primary mover behind all events, even those that appear to threaten His people. The purpose of this divine orchestration is not arbitrary, but ultimately redemptive and revelatory: God brings Gog forth to demonstrate His power and holiness to the nations, ensuring that "they shall know that I am the Lord." This grand display of power ultimately glorifies God and vindicates His covenant faithfulness to Israel.

* [Daniel 4:35](/daniel/4-35 "Daniel 4:35 - God's Dominion Over All Kingdoms")
* [Proverbs 21:1](/proverbs/21-1 "Proverbs 21:1 - The King's Heart in the Lord's Hand")
* [Ezekiel 38:16](/ezekiel/38-16 "Ezekiel 38:16 - God's Sanctification Through Gog's Defeat")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
In a world often characterized by geopolitical instability, the rise and fall of nations, and the seemingly unpredictable actions of powerful leaders, Ezekiel 38:4 offers immense comfort and a foundational truth for believers: God remains utterly sovereign. This verse reminds us that no earthly power, no military might, and no human agenda can operate outside the ultimate control of the Almighty. When we observe global events that cause fear or uncertainty, this passage calls us to remember that God is actively "putting hooks into the jaws" of even the most formidable adversaries, directing their movements to serve His overarching redemptive plan. Our trust, therefore, should not be placed in political systems, military strength, or human wisdom, but solely in the God who orchestrates all things. This understanding fosters a spirit of peace amidst chaos, encourages prayer for leaders (knowing God can direct their hearts), and strengthens our faith in God's ultimate triumph over all evil. It compels us to live with confident expectation, knowing that every event, no matter how daunting, is ultimately working towards the revelation of God's glory and the establishment of His eternal kingdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the imagery of "hooks in the jaws" challenge our perception of human autonomy and free will in light of God's sovereignty?**
* **In what current global or personal circumstances do I need to remember God's absolute control, as depicted in this verse?**
* **How should the truth of God's sovereignty over even hostile forces impact my prayers and my sense of security?**

### FAQ
**Does Ezekiel 38:4 mean that human beings have no free will, since God is "putting hooks" in Gog's jaws?**

Answer: While the imagery of "hooks in the jaws" in [Ezekiel 38:4](/ezekiel/38-4 "Ezekiel 38:4 - God's Control Over Gog") powerfully emphasizes God's absolute sovereignty and His ability to direct the actions of even powerful rulers like Gog, it does not necessarily negate human free will. Instead, it highlights that God's sovereign plan is so comprehensive that He can achieve His purposes even through the choices and actions of individuals and nations who may believe they are acting independently or even in opposition to Him. God's control is not always a coercive override of will, but often a masterful orchestration of circumstances, desires, and consequences such that human choices, made freely, align with or ultimately serve His divine blueprint. This is a profound theological tension, but the Bible consistently affirms both God's sovereignty and human responsibility. In this specific context, the emphasis is on God's undeniable power to bring about His will, ensuring that no earthly force can thwart His purposes for Israel and the world.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 38:4, with its depiction of God's absolute control over a seemingly overwhelming enemy, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While Gog's invasion represents a formidable earthly threat, it foreshadows the far greater spiritual warfare that humanity faces, led by the ultimate adversary, Satan. Just as God puts "hooks into Gog's jaws," Christ, through His death and resurrection, has decisively triumphed over all spiritual principalities and powers, leading them captive in His triumphal procession ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Principalities and Powers")). He is the one to whom all authority in heaven and on earth has been given ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus")), seated at the right hand of God, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion ([Ephesians 1:20-22](/ephesians/1-20 "Ephesians 1:20-22 - Christ Seated at God's Right Hand")). The "great company" of Gog's army, though mighty, is but a shadow of the cosmic forces that Christ has disarmed. Ultimately, the prophetic vision of God bringing forth an enemy to display His glory culminates in Christ's final victory over all opposition, where He, as the [King of kings and Lord of lords](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords"), will lead the armies of heaven to decisively defeat all those arrayed against God and His people ([Revelation 19:11-21](/revelation/19-11 "Revelation 19:11-21 - The Rider on the White Horse and the Beast's Defeat")). Thus, Ezekiel 38:4 points forward to the ultimate demonstration of God's sovereignty exercised through Christ, ensuring the final triumph of His kingdom and the eternal security of His 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

Ezekiel 29:4

But I will put hooks in thy jaws, and I will cause the fish of thy rivers to stick unto thy scales, and I will bring thee up out of the midst of thy rivers, and all the fish of thy rivers shall stick unto thy scales.

Daniel 11:40

And at the time of the end shall the king of the south push at him: and the king of the north shall come against him like a whirlwind, with chariots, and with horsemen, and with many ships; and he shall enter into the countries, and shall overflow and pass over.

2 Kings 19:28

Because thy rage against me and thy tumult is come up into mine ears, therefore I will put my hook in thy nose, and my bridle in thy lips, and I will turn thee back by the way by which thou camest.

Ezekiel 38:15

And thou shalt come from thy place out of the north parts, thou, and many people with thee, all of them riding upon horses, a great company, and a mighty army:

Ezekiel 39:2

And I will turn thee back, and leave but the sixth part of thee, and will cause thee to come up from the north parts, and will bring thee upon the mountains of Israel:

1 Chronicles 12:8

And of the Gadites there separated themselves unto David into the hold to the wilderness men of might, [and] men of war [fit] for the battle, that could handle shield and buckler, whose faces [were like] the faces of lions, and [were] as swift as the roes upon the mountains;

Jeremiah 46:9

Come up, ye horses; and rage, ye chariots; and let the mighty men come forth; the Ethiopians and the Libyans, that handle the shield; and the Lydians, that handle [and] bend the bow.