Ezekiel 38:6

KJV

Gomer, and all his bands; the house of Togarmah of the north quarters, and all his bands: [and] many people with thee.

KJV (with Strong's)

Gomer {H1586}, and all his bands {H102}; the house {H1004} of Togarmah {H8425} of the north {H6828} quarters {H3411}, and all his bands {H102}: and many {H7227} people {H5971} with thee.

Complete Jewish Bible

Gomer with all its troops; the house of Togarmah in the far reaches of the north, with all its troops - many peoples are with you.

Berean Standard Bible

as well as Gomer with all its troops, and Beth-togarmah from the far north with all its troops—the many nations with you.

American Standard Version

Gomer, and all his hordes; the house of Togarmah in the uttermost parts of the north, and all his hordes; even many peoples with thee.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 38:6 meticulously details additional key participants in the formidable coalition led by Gog of Magog, prophesied to invade the land of Israel in the latter days. This verse specifically names Gomer and the "house of Togarmah" from the "north quarters," along with their accompanying military "bands" and "many people," underscoring the vast and multinational scope of this eschatological conflict. It highlights the divine foreknowledge and sovereign orchestration of God over global events, even those involving hostile forces arrayed against His chosen people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of the extensive prophecy concerning Gog and 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"). Following the initial identification of Gog from the land of Magog as the primary leader in [Ezekiel 38:1-3](/ezekiel/38-1-3 "Ezekiel 38:1-3 - Introduction to Gog"), verse 6 continues to list the diverse nations and peoples that will comprise this invading army. The preceding verses, [Ezekiel 38:4-5](/ezekiel/38-4-5 "Ezekiel 38:4-5 - Initial Allies of Gog"), have already named Persia, Cush, Put, Meshech, and Tubal, setting the stage for the inclusion of Gomer and Togarmah, further emphasizing the widespread nature of this future confederacy. The repeated phrase "and all his bands" or "many people with thee" in these verses underscores the comprehensive military might and numerous accompanying forces of each named entity, building a detailed picture of an overwhelming, seemingly unstoppable invasion. This meticulous cataloging builds anticipation for the dramatic divine intervention described later in the prophecy.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The nations mentioned in Ezekiel's prophecy, including Gomer and Togarmah, are generally understood to correspond to peoples known in the ancient Near East. Gomer is identified in the [Table of Nations in Genesis 10:2-3](/genesis/10-2-3 "Genesis 10:2-3 - Descendants of Japheth") as a son of Japheth, and historically linked to the Cimmerians, an Indo-European people who migrated into Anatolia and the Black Sea region from the 8th to 7th centuries BC. Togarmah, also a Japhetic descendant (grandson through Gomer), is often associated with ancient Armenia or eastern Anatolia. [Ezekiel 27:14](/ezekiel/27-14 "Ezekiel 27:14 - Tyre's Trade with Togarmah") mentions Togarmah as a supplier of horses and mules to Tyre, indicating a region known for its cavalry and strategic location. The phrase "north quarters" (Hebrew: *yarkete tsaphon*) consistently denotes the uttermost parts of the north from Israel's perspective, a direction often associated with invading armies in biblical prophecy (e.g., Assyria and Babylon). This context paints a vivid picture of powerful, militarily capable nations from the distant north, aligning with the prophetic description of Gog's origin from "the far north" in [Ezekiel 38:15](/ezekiel/38-15 "Ezekiel 38:15 - Gog from the Far North").
* **Key Themes:** Ezekiel 38:6 significantly contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Ezekiel and biblical prophecy. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty and Foreknowledge**, demonstrating God's meticulous knowledge of future events and His absolute control over the nations, even those hostile to His people. The detailed naming of these distant peoples underscores that no nation or alliance operates outside of His predetermined plan. Secondly, the verse emphasizes the **Global Scope of End-Times Conflict**, illustrating that the final confrontation will involve a vast, multinational confederacy, not merely a regional skirmish. This amplifies the stakes and the ultimate display of God's power. Thirdly, it reinforces the theme of **God's Vindication and Glorification**, which is the ultimate purpose of the Gog-Magog invasion. As stated in [Ezekiel 38:16](/ezekiel/38-16 "Ezekiel 38:16 - God's Glory Through Gog's Defeat"), God allows this invasion so that "the nations may know Me, when through you, O Gog, I prove Myself holy before their eyes." The specific naming of these nations serves to magnify the eventual, undeniable triumph of God over all opposing forces, fulfilling His promise to be known among the nations, as seen throughout [Ezekiel](/ezekiel/1 "The Book of Ezekiel").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Gomer (Hebrew, _Gômer'_):** From the root meaning "completion," Gomer is the name of a son of Japheth and his descendants, as listed in [Genesis 10:2](/genesis/10-2 "Genesis 10:2 - Sons of Japheth"). In this prophetic context, it refers to a specific people group, historically linked to the Cimmerians, renowned for their nomadic lifestyle and military prowess. Their inclusion signifies the broad geographic reach of the coalition, extending from regions north of the Black Sea.
* **bands (Hebrew, _ʼaggâph'_):** This word, derived from a root suggesting "impending" or "covering," refers to "wings of an army" or "crowds of troops." It emphasizes the organized military units and large numbers of soldiers accompanying Gomer and Togarmah, indicating not just peoples but their formidable armed forces. This term highlights the structured and comprehensive nature of their military contribution.
* **house (Hebrew, _bayith'_):** While commonly meaning a physical dwelling, in this context, "house of Togarmah" signifies a family, lineage, or a collective people group descended from Togarmah. It implies a national or tribal entity, encompassing all who belong to or are associated with this ancestral line, rather than just a specific dwelling. This usage underscores the identity and solidarity of this particular group within the larger confederacy.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Gomer, and all his bands":** This clause precisely identifies Gomer, a significant people group from the ancient world, as a key participant in Gog's formidable coalition. The phrase "all his bands" emphasizes that Gomer is not coming alone but with a full complement of military forces, highlighting their comprehensive contribution to the invasion. This indicates a well-organized and substantial military contingent, ready for battle.
* **"the house of Togarmah of the north quarters, and all his bands":** This clause introduces Togarmah, another distinct people group, explicitly situating them as originating from the "north quarters" – the uttermost parts of the north from Israel's perspective. Like Gomer, Togarmah is accompanied by "all his bands," reinforcing the idea of a complete military force. The specific mention of "north quarters" further solidifies the geographical orientation of this invasion, consistent with Gog's own origin from "the far north" in [Ezekiel 38:15](/ezekiel/38-15 "Ezekiel 38:15 - Gog from the Far North").
* **"and many people with thee.":** This concluding phrase serves as a summary statement, encompassing not only the previously named nations and their armies but also a multitude of other unnamed peoples who will join Gog. "With thee" refers back to Gog, the primary leader, indicating that these nations and their vast armies are all allied under his command. This emphasizes the overwhelming numerical strength and diverse composition of the invading force, presenting a truly global and seemingly insurmountable threat.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 38:6 employs several literary devices to enhance its prophetic message and convey the magnitude of the impending conflict. **Enumeration** is prominent, as the verse meticulously lists specific nations (Gomer, Togarmah) and their accompanying forces, contributing to the sense of a comprehensive and formidable alliance. The repeated phrase "and all his bands" functions as **Repetition**, serving to emphasize the military strength and collective nature of each participant, building a vivid picture of an overwhelming force. The geographical indicator "of the north quarters" acts as **Symbolism**, as "the north" in prophetic literature often symbolizes a source of powerful, distant enemies or even divine judgment. This specific direction reinforces the idea of an invasion from beyond Israel's immediate neighbors, suggesting a global reach. Furthermore, the passage's vivid description of a massive, multinational army creates a sense of **Hyperbole** or **Exaggeration** to convey the immense scale of the impending conflict, underscoring the seemingly insurmountable odds against Israel and, by extension, highlighting the even greater power of God who will ultimately defeat them.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 38:6, by naming specific nations and their military contingents, underscores the profound theological truth of God's absolute sovereignty over all nations and historical events. Even when hostile forces conspire against His people, they are ultimately instruments in His hand, serving His greater purpose of self-revelation and glorification. This prophecy is not merely a geopolitical forecast but a declaration of divine control, assuring believers that God's plan will unfold precisely as He ordains, leading to His ultimate vindication before all the world. The vastness of the coalition described highlights the magnitude of God's power required to defeat such an enemy, thereby magnifying His holiness and might before all nations, demonstrating that His purposes cannot be thwarted by any earthly alliance or power.

* [Ezekiel 39:7](/ezekiel/39-7 "Ezekiel 39:7 - God's Holy Name Known")
* [Revelation 20:7-9](/rev/20-7-9 "Revelation 20:7-9 - Gog and Magog in the End Times")
* [Psalm 2:1-4](/psalms/2-1-4 "Psalm 2:1-4 - The Nations Rage, God Laughs")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 38:6, while detailing a future prophetic event, offers profound encouragement and practical application for believers today. In a world marked by escalating geopolitical tensions, shifting alliances, and the rise of formidable powers, this verse reminds us that God remains sovereign over all. We are called not to fear the machinations of nations or the formation of hostile confederacies, but to rest in the assurance that God knows the end from the beginning. This understanding should cultivate a deep trust in His unfailing plan, even when circumstances appear chaotic or threatening. It compels us to view current events through the lens of divine providence, recognizing that God is working all things for His glory and the ultimate good of His people. Our response should be one of prayerful vigilance, seeking God's kingdom and righteousness above all, and confidently proclaiming His sovereignty to a world that desperately needs to know Him. This prophecy ultimately directs our gaze to the God who is in control, inviting us to live with confident hope in His ultimate triumph.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the detailed naming of nations in this prophecy strengthen your faith in God's foreknowledge and sovereignty over world events?**
* **In what ways can understanding prophecies like Ezekiel 38:6 help us navigate contemporary global conflicts and anxieties with a posture of faith rather than fear?**
* **How does the ultimate purpose of this prophecy—God's glorification—shape your prayers for the nations and for the Church today?**

### FAQ
**Who are Gomer and Togarmah, and why are they significant in this prophecy?**

Answer: Gomer and Togarmah are ancient peoples identified in the [Table of Nations in Genesis 10](/genesis/10 "Genesis 10 - The Table of Nations") as descendants of Japheth, Noah's son. Historically, Gomer is often associated with the Cimmerians, an Indo-European people who inhabited regions north of the Black Sea and parts of Anatolia (modern-day Turkey). Togarmah is generally linked to ancient Armenia or eastern Anatolia, a region known for its horses and mules, as mentioned in [Ezekiel 27:14](/ezekiel/27-14 "Ezekiel 27:14 - Togarmah's Trade"). Their significance in Ezekiel 38:6 lies in their geographical location ("north quarters") and their military strength. Their inclusion, along with other nations, emphasizes the vast, multinational, and geographically diverse nature of the coalition that will ultimately invade Israel, highlighting the global scope of this end-times prophecy and the immense power God will demonstrate in their defeat. Their presence underscores that this is not a localized conflict, but one involving distant, powerful nations.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Ezekiel 38:6 describes a future geopolitical conflict, its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment lies in the triumph of God's kingdom and the absolute sovereignty of Jesus Christ over all earthly powers. The formidable coalition arrayed against Israel in this prophecy foreshadows the relentless opposition that the people of God, both Old Testament Israel and the New Testament Church, face throughout history. Yet, just as God promises to draw Gog out and utterly destroy him, demonstrating His holiness, so too does Christ promise ultimate victory over all His enemies. The seemingly overwhelming forces mentioned in [Ezekiel 38](/ezekiel/38 "Ezekiel 38 - The Gog-Magog Prophecy") are but a shadow of the cosmic powers of darkness that Jesus defeated through His death and resurrection, triumphing over "principalities and powers" ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")). He is the true King who will one day return to establish His righteous reign, putting all enemies under His feet ([1 Corinthians 15:25](/1_corinthians/15-25 "1 Corinthians 15:25 - Christ's Reign Until All Enemies Are Subdued")), and His victory will be complete and undeniable, just as God's victory over Gog is portrayed in [Ezekiel 39](/ezekiel/39 "Ezekiel 39 - God's Victory"). The ultimate "many people with thee" who stand against God will ultimately bow the knee to the [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God") ([Philippians 2:10-11](/philippians/2-10-11 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Every Knee Will Bow")). Thus, this prophecy, like all others, points to the sovereign rule of Christ, who is "King of kings and Lord of lords" ([Revelation 19:16](/rev/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords")), and through whom God's name will be glorified among all nations, ultimately fulfilling the divine purpose for all creation.

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

Genesis 10:2

The sons of Japheth; Gomer, and Magog, and Madai, and Javan, and Tubal, and Meshech, and Tiras.

Genesis 10:3

And the sons of Gomer; Ashkenaz, and Riphath, and Togarmah.

Ezekiel 27:14

They of the house of Togarmah traded in thy fairs with horses and horsemen and mules.

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.

1 Chronicles 1:5

The sons of Japheth; Gomer, and Magog, and Madai, and Javan, and Tubal, and Meshech, and Tiras.

1 Chronicles 1:6

And the sons of Gomer; Ashchenaz, and Riphath, and Togarmah.