Add parallel Print Page Options

37 I will make you pass under[a] the shepherd’s staff,[b] and I will bring you into the bond of the covenant. 38 I will eliminate from among you the rebels and those who revolt[c] against me. I will bring them out from the land where they have been residing, but they will not come to the land of Israel. Then you will know that I am the Lord.

39 “‘As for you, O house of Israel, this is what the Sovereign Lord says: Each of you go and serve your idols,[d] if you will not listen to me.[e] But my holy name will not be profaned[f] again by your sacrifices[g] and your idols.

Read full chapter

Footnotes

  1. Ezekiel 20:37 tn This is the same Hebrew verb used to describe the passing of the children through the fire.
  2. Ezekiel 20:37 sn The metaphor may be based in Lev 27:32 (see also Jer 33:13 and Matt 25:32-33). A shepherd would count his sheep as they passed beneath his staff.
  3. Ezekiel 20:38 tn See the note at 2:3.
  4. Ezekiel 20:39 sn Compare the irony here to Amos 4:4 and Jer 44:25.
  5. Ezekiel 20:39 tn Heb “and after, if you will not listen to me.” The translation leaves out “and after” for smoothness. The text is difficult. M. Greenberg (Ezekiel [AB], 1:374) suggests that it may mean “but afterwards, if you will not listen to me…” with an unspoken threat.
  6. Ezekiel 20:39 sn A similar concept may be found in Lev 18:21 and 20:3.
  7. Ezekiel 20:39 tn Or “gifts.”

37 I will take note of you as you pass under my rod,(A) and I will bring you into the bond of the covenant.(B) 38 I will purge(C) you of those who revolt and rebel against me. Although I will bring them out of the land where they are living, yet they will not enter the land of Israel. Then you will know that I am the Lord.(D)

39 “‘As for you, people of Israel, this is what the Sovereign Lord says: Go and serve your idols,(E) every one of you! But afterward you will surely listen to me and no longer profane my holy name(F) with your gifts and idols.(G)

Read full chapter