Ezekiel 6:8

KJV

¶ Yet will I leave a remnant, that ye may have [some] that shall escape the sword among the nations, when ye shall be scattered through the countries.

KJV (with Strong's)

Yet will I leave a remnant {H3498}, that ye may have some that shall escape {H6412} the sword {H2719} among the nations {H1471}, when ye shall be scattered {H2219} through the countries {H776}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"'"Nevertheless, I will leave a remnant, some who will escape the sword among the nations, when you have been scattered throughout the countries.

Berean Standard Bible

Yet I will leave a remnant, for some of you will escape the sword when you are scattered among the nations and throughout the lands.

American Standard Version

Yet will I leave a remnant, in that ye shall have some that escape the sword among the nations, when ye shall be scattered through the countries.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 6:8 presents a profound declaration of divine mercy and sovereign preservation amidst a sweeping pronouncement of judgment against idolatrous Israel. Despite the promised desolation and scattering of the nation due to their pervasive abominations, God reveals His unwavering intention to preserve a faithful remnant. This verse underscores God's covenant faithfulness, ensuring that even in the darkest hour of disciplinary action, a portion of His people will escape complete annihilation, serving as a testament to His enduring purpose and a seed for future restoration.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezekiel 6:8 is strategically placed within a series of prophetic oracles (Ezekiel 6:1-7:27) detailing God's impending, comprehensive judgment upon the land of Israel for its widespread idolatry. The preceding verses (Ezekiel 6:1-7) vividly describe the nature of this judgment: God's wrath is set against the mountains, high places, and altars where Israel practiced pagan worship. Their altars will be ruined, their images broken, and their slain bodies will lie before their idols, signifying the utter futility of their false gods and the comprehensive nature of divine retribution. The judgment is portrayed as a direct and just consequence of their "abominations" (Ezekiel 6:6). Amidst this stark declaration of widespread destruction and desolation, verse 8 introduces a crucial counterpoint, a note of divine reservation and a promise of a preserved portion, setting the stage for future hope and understanding of God's long-term plan for His people. It acts as a divine "but," mitigating the absolute severity of the preceding judgment.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecies in Ezekiel 6 were delivered to the Jewish exiles in Babylon, following the first deportation of Judah in 597 BC. The people had been removed from their land, a direct fulfillment of the covenant curses warned in [Deuteronomy 28](/deuteronomy/28 "Deuteronomy 28 - Blessings and Curses"). The primary sin addressed is idolatry, which was rampant in Judah, even within the temple precincts, as vividly depicted in [Ezekiel 8](/ezekiel/8 "Ezekiel 8 - Abominations in the Temple"). The "high places" and "altars" mentioned were ubiquitous sites of syncretistic worship, where Israelites blended the worship of Yahweh with Canaanite deities like Baal and Asherah. This practice was a direct violation of the first two commandments found in [Exodus 20:3-5](/exodus/20-3-5 "Exodus 20:3-5 - The First Two Commandments"). The "sword" (Ezekiel 6:3) refers to war, specifically the impending Babylonian invasion, which was God's chosen instrument of judgment. The "scattering through the countries" refers to the diaspora, the dispersion of the Jewish people among foreign nations, a consequence often viewed as a curse but here paradoxically presented as a means of preservation for the remnant.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several key themes within Ezekiel and the broader biblical narrative. The most prominent is **Remnant Theology**, which posits that even in times of severe judgment, God preserves a faithful or chosen portion of His people. This concept underscores God's unwavering **Covenant Faithfulness**; despite Israel's persistent unfaithfulness and idolatry, God remains true to His promises to Abraham and David, ensuring the continuity of His people. The verse also highlights **Divine Sovereignty**, demonstrating that God is in absolute control of historical events, orchestrating both judgment and preservation according to His purposes. Furthermore, it subtly introduces the theme of **Hope Amidst Despair**, as the existence of a remnant provides a glimmer of future restoration and renewal, even when the immediate outlook is one of utter desolation, echoing similar themes found in [Isaiah 1:9](/isaiah/1-9 "Isaiah 1:9 - A Very Small Remnant"). The scattering, though a punishment, serves as a paradoxical means of preservation, preventing total annihilation and setting the stage for a future gathering and spiritual renewal.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **remnant (Hebrew, _yâthar'_):** H3498. This word signifies "to jut over or exceed; by implication, to excel; (intransitively) to remain or be left; causatively, to leave, cause to abound, preserve." In Ezekiel 6:8, God's declaration "Yet will I leave a remnant" emphasizes His deliberate and sovereign act of preservation. It is not an accidental survival but a divinely ordained choice to maintain a portion of His people, ensuring continuity and the fulfillment of His covenant purposes despite widespread judgment. This "leaving" is an act of profound grace and intentional preservation, highlighting God's active role in their survival.
* **escape (Hebrew, _pâlîyṭ'_):** H6412. This term refers to "a refugee; (that have) escape(-d, -th), fugitive." The remnant is specifically identified as those who "shall escape the sword," highlighting their deliverance from the immediate, devastating judgment of war and death. Their survival is not due to their own strength or cunning, but rather a direct result of God's protective hand, distinguishing them from the majority who will perish. It underscores their status as divinely chosen survivors of a cataclysmic event, set apart for God's ongoing purposes.
* **scattered (Hebrew, _zârâh'_):** H2219. This primitive root means "to toss about; by implication, to diffuse, winnow; cast away, compass, disperse, fan, scatter (away), spread, strew, winnow." The phrase "when ye shall be scattered through the countries" describes the dispersion of the Israelites among foreign nations. This scattering, often a sign of judgment and broken covenant (as seen in [Deuteronomy 28:64](/deuteronomy/28-64 "Deuteronomy 28:64 - Scattering Among Nations")), is here presented as the very context within which the remnant's preservation occurs. Paradoxically, the act of dispersion prevents their complete destruction in one place, allowing a portion to survive and be preserved for future divine purposes.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Yet will I leave a remnant,"**: This opening clause introduces a crucial turning point, marked by the adversative "Yet." Despite the preceding pronouncements of wholesale destruction, God's sovereign will intervenes. The phrase "I leave" (from _yâthar_) signifies a deliberate, active choice by God to preserve a portion of His people. This "remnant" is not merely a few survivors by chance, but a divinely chosen and protected group, highlighting God's mercy amidst His justice and His unwavering commitment to His covenant. It is a testament to His faithfulness even when His people are unfaithful.
* **"that ye may have [some] that shall escape the sword among the nations,"**: This clause clarifies the purpose and nature of the remnant's preservation. Their survival is specifically from "the sword," symbolizing the violent judgment and warfare that will decimate the majority of the population. The phrase "among the nations" anticipates their dispersion, indicating that their escape will occur not by remaining in their land, but by being scattered abroad, where God will still watch over them. This foreshadows the Babylonian exile and the subsequent diaspora, where a portion of Israel would survive outside their homeland.
* **"when ye shall be scattered through the countries."**: This final clause reiterates and emphasizes the context of their preservation. The "scattering" (from _zârâh_) is the very means by which the remnant is preserved, rather than destroyed. It is a profound paradox: an act of judgment becomes an instrument of grace. While the nation as a whole experiences dispersion as a punishment for idolatry, this very dispersion ensures that a chosen few survive, setting the stage for future repentance, spiritual purification, and ultimate restoration, demonstrating God's long-term redemptive plan.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 6:8 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message. Most notably, it features **Paradox**, as the very act of scattering, typically a curse and a sign of utter destruction, becomes the surprising means of preservation for the remnant. This ironic twist highlights God's sovereign ability to work His purposes even through seemingly negative circumstances. The phrase "escape the sword" employs **Metonymy**, where "sword" stands for the entire judgment of war, death, and national devastation, emphasizing the severity of the impending destruction from which the remnant is spared. Furthermore, the verse is a clear example of **Divine Speech** or **Prophetic Oracle**, as it begins with the first-person declaration "Yet will I leave," directly conveying God's personal and authoritative declaration, underscoring His direct involvement in the destiny of His people. The profound contrast between the widespread destruction described in the preceding verses and the specific, merciful promise of a remnant creates a powerful **Juxtaposition**, emphasizing the depth of God's mercy and His unwavering commitment to His covenant.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 6:8 is a foundational text for understanding the biblical doctrine of the remnant, a recurring and vital theme throughout Scripture. It showcases God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises, even when His people are unfaithful and deserving of judgment. Despite the severe judgment necessitated by Israel's persistent idolatry, God's character is revealed as one who always preserves a seed, ensuring that His redemptive plan continues. This preservation is not based on human merit but on divine grace and sovereign election, setting the stage for future restoration and the ultimate fulfillment of God's purposes through a purified people. The scattering of the remnant among the nations also foreshadows the global reach of God's plan, where His people would eventually bear witness to Him even in exile, preparing the way for a broader, more inclusive covenant.

* [Isaiah 1:9](/isaiah/1-9 "Isaiah 1:9 - A Very Small Remnant")
* [Romans 9:27](/romans/9-27 "Romans 9:27 - A Remnant Will Be Saved")
* [Romans 11:5](/romans/11-5 "Romans 11:5 - The Remnant According to Grace")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 6:8 offers profound comfort and challenge for believers today. In a world often marked by chaos, moral decline, and seemingly overwhelming challenges, this verse reminds us that God remains sovereign and faithful. Even when judgment falls, whether on a national or personal level, God always preserves a remnant—those who remain true to Him, often solely through His grace. This truth should instill in us a deep sense of hope and security, knowing that God's purposes will ultimately prevail, and His people will endure. It also calls us to profound self-examination: are we part of that faithful remnant, or are we caught up in the idolatries of our age, whether they be materialism, self-worship, the pursuit of fleeting pleasures, or the embrace of cultural norms that contradict God's Word? The "high places" of Ezekiel's day have modern equivalents in anything that displaces God from the center of our lives and affections. This verse encourages us to cling to God's promises, to live in faithful obedience, and to find solace in His preserving grace, even when circumstances seem bleak or when we feel like a small minority in a hostile world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the concept of God preserving a "remnant" challenge or affirm your understanding of divine justice and mercy?**
* **What are the "idols" or "high places" in our contemporary society, or even in our personal lives, that might provoke God's judgment?**
* **In what ways might God use difficult or "scattering" circumstances in our lives to preserve, purify, or prepare us for His greater purposes?**
* **How does the faithfulness of God to His covenant, as seen in this verse, encourage you in your walk with Him today, especially when facing trials or widespread unfaithfulness?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the "remnant" in biblical theology?**

Answer: The "remnant" is a crucial theological concept referring to a small, surviving portion of a larger group that has undergone judgment or calamity. Its significance lies in demonstrating God's sovereign faithfulness and mercy. Despite widespread apostasy or destruction, God always preserves a chosen few to ensure the continuity of His covenant promises and the fulfillment of His redemptive plan. This remnant often serves as the seed for future restoration and a testament to God's enduring commitment to His people, as seen in passages like [Isaiah 10:20-22](/isaiah/10-20-22 "Isaiah 10:20-22 - The Remnant of Israel"). It highlights that God's plan will never be thwarted by human sin or rebellion.

**How can scattering be a means of preservation?**

Answer: In Ezekiel 6:8, the scattering of Israel "through the countries" is paradoxically presented as the context for the remnant's preservation. While dispersion was a severe covenant curse, explicitly warned in [Deuteronomy 28:64](/deuteronomy/28-64 "Deuteronomy 28:64 - Scattering Among Nations"), it prevented the complete annihilation of the people in one localized place. By being dispersed among foreign nations, a portion was spared from the immediate and localized devastation of the "sword" (war and famine) that would consume those remaining in the land. This allowed for their survival and eventual return, demonstrating God's ability to use even punitive measures to achieve His ultimate redemptive purposes, ensuring that His people would not be utterly consumed, but rather preserved for a future work of grace.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 6:8, with its profound promise of a preserved remnant amidst judgment, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Old Testament remnant, whether those who survived the flood, the exiles in Babylon, or the faithful few in times of apostasy, always pointed forward to the true and perfect remnant: Christ Himself. He is the faithful Israel, the one who perfectly obeyed God where the nation failed, embodying the ideal of God's chosen people. In His person, the entire hope of the remnant is concentrated. Furthermore, the concept of the remnant expands in the New Testament to encompass all who are "in Christ" by faith. While a physical remnant of Israel was preserved, the spiritual remnant now includes believers from every nation, Jew and Gentile, who are called out of the world's judgment into God's kingdom. Paul explicitly connects this Old Testament truth to the church in [Romans 11:5](/romans/11-5 "Romans 11:5 - The Remnant According to Grace"), stating that "there is a remnant chosen by grace." This new covenant remnant is not preserved from the sword through physical scattering but is saved from the ultimate judgment of sin through the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"). Thus, the preservation promised in Ezekiel 6:8 is ultimately realized in the spiritual salvation and eternal security offered through the finished work of Christ, who gathers His elect from all corners of the earth into His one body, the Church ([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

Ezekiel 14:22

Yet, behold, therein shall be left a remnant that shall be brought forth, [both] sons and daughters: behold, they shall come forth unto you, and ye shall see their way and their doings: and ye shall be comforted concerning the evil that I have brought upon Jerusalem, [even] concerning all that I have brought upon it.

Isaiah 6:13

But yet in it [shall be] a tenth, and [it] shall return, and shall be eaten: as a teil tree, and as an oak, whose substance [is] in them, when they cast [their leaves: so] the holy seed [shall be] the substance thereof.

Jeremiah 44:14

So that none of the remnant of Judah, which are gone into the land of Egypt to sojourn there, shall escape or remain, that they should return into the land of Judah, to the which they have a desire to return to dwell there: for none shall return but such as shall escape.

Ezekiel 12:16

But I will leave a few men of them from the sword, from the famine, and from the pestilence; that they may declare all their abominations among the heathen whither they come; and they shall know that I [am] the LORD.

Jeremiah 44:28

Yet a small number that escape the sword shall return out of the land of Egypt into the land of Judah, and all the remnant of Judah, that are gone into the land of Egypt to sojourn there, shall know whose words shall stand, mine, or theirs.

Jeremiah 30:11

For I [am] with thee, saith the LORD, to save thee: though I make a full end of all nations whither I have scattered thee, yet will I not make a full end of thee: but I will correct thee in measure, and will not leave thee altogether unpunished.

Ezekiel 7:16

¶ But they that escape of them shall escape, and shall be on the mountains like doves of the valleys, all of them mourning, every one for his iniquity.