Definition: Therefore prophesy and say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Because they have made [you] desolate, and swallowed you up on every side, that ye might be a possession unto the residue of the heathen, and ye are taken up in the lips of talkers, and [are] an infamy of the people:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 36:3. It's a really important passage with a lot of meaning, and it’s often misunderstood. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is about God’s judgment on Israel and its people, and it’s essentially saying that they’ve been treated terribly and are now being singled out for shame and negative attention. Let's unpack the parts: "Therefore prophesy and say, Thus saith the Lord GOD;" – This tells us that God is directly speaking to Ezekiel, who is a prophet. He's issuing a clear message. “Because they have made [you] desolate, and swallowed you up on every side…” – This is the core of the problem. The verse describes a period of intense hardship and suffering for Israel. It’s not just occasional trouble; it was a long, prolonged period of oppression, exile, and being treated unfairly. "Swallowed you up on every side" means they were constantly harassed and taken advantage of. “…that ye are taken up in the lips of talkers, and [are] an infamy of the people.” – This is where it gets really heavy. “Talkers” refers to people who spread gossip and lies – those who exaggerate and make things up about others. “An infamy of the people” means they've become a source of shame and bad reputation for everyone. The verse warns that this behavior will have lasting negative consequences. What’s the message? The verse is essentially saying: God is extremely displeased with Israel’s actions. It’s a warning about the dangers of gossip, slander, and prioritizing personal gain over righteousness and justice. It's pointing out that this behavior has created a bad reputation for them, and it will continue to stain their image in the eyes of others. In short: God is judging Israel for their dishonesty and how they’ve treated others. It’s a call to repentance and a reminder that true faith involves honesty and integrity. Important Note: This verse often gets misinterpreted as saying that Israel is causing God's anger. However, the message is more about their behavior – their choices and actions – leading to negative consequences for them and others. --- Do you want me to: Explain a particular aspect of this verse in more detail? Provide a historical context (what was happening at the time)? Give you a parallel example from another Bible passage that illustrates this idea?

Definition: And I will multiply the fruit of the tree, and the increase of the field, that ye shall receive no more reproach of famine among the heathen.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Ezekiel 36:30. It’s a really interesting and hopeful passage about God’s plan for Israel! Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: God is promising to bless and prosper Israel again. He wants to increase their prosperity – both economically (like the fields) and spiritually (like the fruit of the tree). He's saying that this blessing will be a reward for following God’s instructions and being faithful. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And I will multiply the fruit of the tree…” – This is metaphorical, but think of it like a large, abundant harvest. It suggests a significant increase in God's blessings for Israel. It's about overflowing abundance. “…and the increase of the field…” - This refers to the prosperity and well-being of the land itself. It’s not just about money, but also about a healthy environment where people can thrive. “That ye shall receive no more reproach of famine among the heathen.” – This is the really important part! “Reclame” means ‘reproach’ or ‘blot.’ It means that Israel will not be punished for their disobedience and lack of faithfulness. It speaks to a future time when God will restore his people and allow them to flourish, free from hardship and suffering. So, what does it all mean? God is saying: “We’re going to help you become prosperous again! We're going to give you plenty – enough to thrive and even flourish – so that you won't be plagued by famine or hardship when others don’t have as much. It’s a promise of blessing and abundance for your people.” In short, it’s a message of hope and reward for faithfulness. --- Would you like me to: Explain another part of this verse? Give you some historical context (where this passage came from)? Discuss what it might symbolize in the larger story of Israel's history?

Definition: Then shall ye remember your own evil ways, and your doings that [were] not good, and shall lothe yourselves in your own sight for your iniquities and for your abominations.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 36:31. It's a really important passage about repentance and recognizing our flaws. Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: Basically, it’s saying: “You need to acknowledge that you’ve done wrong and that you recognize your own mistakes.” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Then shall ye remember your own evil ways…” – This is a gentle nudge. It's inviting you to look back at times where you’ve acted poorly, disobeyed God, or perhaps made choices that weren’t right. It’s about acknowledging past mistakes. “…and your doings that [were] not good…” – “Your doings” refers to the things you’ve done - your actions, decisions, and even thoughts. The key word here is “that were not good.” It's focusing on those choices that weren't aligned with God's will or principles. “and for your iniquities…” – This means “for the wrong things you’ve done” - things like being selfish, dishonest, or causing harm to others. “…and for your abominations.” – This is a stronger term. It suggests something more serious – actions that are considered deeply wrong and harmful by God’s standards. It's not just small mistakes; it's behaviors that go against everything He has taught us. So, the whole verse is a call to: Self-reflection: Take time to think about your past behavior and understand why you did what you did. Responsibility: Accept accountability for your actions. It’s not enough to simply feel bad; you need to acknowledge that you've made a mistake. Change: Recognizing these flaws is the first step toward making better choices in the future. The Significance of it: Ezekiel 36:31 is often seen as a message of hope because it speaks about cleansing and renewal. God isn’t just punishing you; He wants to restore you and help you move towards righteousness. It's a reminder that everyone needs to strive to live a life pleasing to Him. Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail, or perhaps relate it to a specific situation you might be thinking about? For example: Are you struggling with a particular past mistake? Are you feeling discouraged by your actions?

Definition: Not for your sakes do I [this], saith the Lord GOD, be it known unto you: be ashamed and confounded for your own ways, O house of Israel.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Ezekiel 36:32. It’s a really interesting and somewhat surprising passage, and it’s packed with meaning! Here’s what it’s saying in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: The verse is about feeling overwhelmed and shocked by God’s action – specifically, the transformation of the Israelites' bodies. It's like a sudden, drastic change that’s causing a lot of worry for them. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Ezekiel 36:32” : This is the specific verse we're focusing on. It’s from a prophecy (a vision or message) given to Ezekiel, a prophet in ancient Israel. “Not for your sakes do I [this]…” : This is key. God isn't telling them why he’s doing this. He’s saying it's not for their benefit – they don’t want this change to happen. It’s a direct, personal action. “Sayeth the Lord GOD…” : This establishes that it’s God speaking directly. “…be ashamed and confounded…” : This is the core of the message. God is feeling incredibly worried and shocked by what he's doing. He’s experiencing a state of intense emotional distress – shame and confusion. It’s like a huge, internal battle. “O house of Israel” : This refers to the Israelites, specifically the people God has chosen to be his people. He’s showing them that his actions are deeply affecting them . What does this mean practically? This verse is often interpreted as a sign that God is actively working to bring about a new era of righteousness and purity within the Israelite nation. It suggests: A Necessary Transformation: God isn't just giving them a physical change; he’s fundamentally reshaping their character, spirit, and way of life. A Warning: It could be a warning to the Israelites – they are on a path that requires significant change and purification. Divine Judgment (Potentially): Some interpretations suggest this transformation is connected to God's judgment on sin and idolatry. It’s about a complete overhaul of their ways. In short, this verse describes a moment of profound emotional upheaval for God as he initiates a fundamental shift in the lives of his people. Important Note: The exact meaning of this verse has been debated by scholars for centuries, and there's no single, definitive interpretation. It’s rich with symbolism and layered with biblical significance! --- To help me explain it even better to you , could you tell me: What are you hoping to understand from this passage? (e.g., Are you curious about its historical context, or its theological meaning?)

Definition: Thus saith the Lord GOD; In the day that I shall have cleansed you from all your iniquities I will also cause [you] to dwell in the cities, and the wastes shall be builded.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Ezekiel 36:33. It’s a really important and poetic passage about God’s plan for Israel after the Babylonian exile. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, God is saying: “After I have cleansed you all from your bad habits and mistakes – that’s your sins and wrongdoings – I will then give you a chance to return to the land and rebuild things. I want you to live in cities and towns, and also let people build places where they can live all over.” Let's unpack it a little: “Thus saith the Lord GOD…” : This is God speaking directly to us. “…In the day that I shall have cleansed you from all your iniquities…” : "Iniquities" means "sin." God is saying He’s going to help you get rid of the bad things you've been doing – things like dishonesty, pride, anger, etc. It’s a big turning point for them. “…I will also cause [you] to dwell in the cities, and the wastes shall be builded.” : This is the exciting part! God isn't just trying to remove the bad things; He wants you to return to the land. He’s saying that after you get cleansed, you'll have a chance to live in towns, cities, and even rebuild areas that are currently empty or neglected. It suggests a restoration and renewal for the land. What does this mean practically? It speaks to a hope for Israel’s future. God wants them to be restored to their full glory – to be a thriving nation again after being separated from them. It's about forgiveness, redemption, and a return to righteousness. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a promise of God’s restoration and the rebuilding of Israel. It’s a hopeful message of renewal and hope for the future! --- Do you want me to explain any part of this further? For example, would you like me to: Explain the context of Ezekiel 36? Discuss the symbolism behind “iniquities”? Talk about what this verse might mean in a broader biblical perspective?

Definition: And the desolate land shall be tilled, whereas it lay desolate in the sight of all that passed by.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 36:34. It's a really interesting and symbolic piece of scripture! Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Core Idea: This verse describes a time when God is actively working to restore something that was lost or neglected. It speaks about a land being again brought back to life and fertility after a long period of dryness and barrenness. Let's unpack the parts: "Ezekiel 36:34" : This tells us we’re talking about a specific passage in the Bible, written by Ezekiel, a prophet during the time of King Josiah in ancient Israel. “And the desolate land” : This refers to a place that was once fertile and full of life, but has been left abandoned or suffering from drought or hardship for a long period – perhaps years or even decades. It's a place where things have withered away. “In the sight of all that passed by” : This is the key part! It means that this desolate land wasn’t just there ; it was being observed and seen by people who were traveling past. It suggests a significant, perhaps even a momentous, event. So, what does it mean in practical terms? The verse describes a time when God is actively working to bring life back into a place that has been forgotten or neglected. It’s a sign of His restoration and renewal. Think of it like this: It's about restoration: The land is being brought back to its former state – fertile, productive, and full of life again. It’s a sign of God’s care: It’s a message that God is watching over us and working for our good. It could be about healing or renewal: The land could also be symbolizing a broken relationship, a lost hope, or an unmet need – and God is actively working to heal it and bring new beginnings. In short, the verse paints a picture of God actively restoring something that has been lost and forgotten through his work. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Connect it to a specific biblical story or theme?

Definition: And they shall say, This land that was desolate is become like the garden of Eden; and the waste and desolate and ruined cities [are become] fenced, [and] are inhabited.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 36:35. It’s a really interesting and poetic passage about God’s plan for Israel. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is saying that after a long period of hardship and desolation – meaning a time of ruin and emptiness – He’s going to restore the land to a beautiful, fertile state, almost like a garden again. It's a dramatic reversal of what has happened before. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Ezekiel 36:35” : This is the verse itself – it’s from a book in the Bible called Ezekiel. “And they shall say…” : This phrase suggests a revelation or a declaration that will be heard. It's like God is speaking to people and telling them what He intends. “…this land that was desolate is become like the garden of Eden…” : This is the core of the message. “Eden” in biblical stories refers to a perfect, idyllic place – a paradise. The "desolate" part means it was empty and wasted. So, God is saying this land has been lost and destroyed. Now, it’s becoming like the garden of Eden again. “…and the waste and desolate [are] fenced, [and] are inhabited.” : This is where the transformation happens. “Waste” means empty or barren. “Desolate” means lifeless and ruined. "Fenced" means it’s being built up and organized – like a garden. And “inhabited” means it's being filled with life and beauty again. So, putting it all together: God is saying that after a long period of destruction, He’s restoring the land to a place where it can be beautiful, fertile, and full of life – much like the original paradise. It’s a powerful image of hope and restoration! Why is this important? This verse speaks to the idea that God's plan for us isn't just about a grand, sweeping victory against evil. Sometimes, it's about rebuilding what has been broken down, creating something new and beautiful again. It’s a reminder of God’s power and His ability to transform even the most desolate places. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to other Bible stories or themes? Give an example of how this could be interpreted in modern life?

Definition: Then the heathen that are left round about you shall know that I the LORD build the ruined [places, and] plant that that was desolate: I the LORD have spoken [it], and I will do [it].

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 36:36. It's a really interesting and symbolic passage about God’s plan for restoration and rebuilding. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is saying he’s going to actively restore things that have been lost or damaged. He’s planning to rebuild places that are broken and desolate, and he's doing this to show his power and purpose. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Then the heathen that are left around you shall know that I the LORD build the ruined [places, and] plant that that was desolate.” – This is the core of the verse. “Heathen” refers to people who were previously living in a specific area. The "ruined places" could be anything: abandoned settlements, barren land, etc. God is saying he’s going to actively build these places back up. He's actively creating and restoring them. “I the LORD have spoken [it], and I will do [it].” – This is a declaration of God’s action. “Have spoken” means that this isn’t just an idea or plan; it’s something he has already decided to do. "I will do it" emphasizes his commitment and power to bring about change. What does this mean in a broader sense? This verse speaks to several key themes: God's Restoration: It’s a powerful message of God actively working to heal and restore things that are broken or lost. Purpose & Action: It highlights that God doesn't just plan to do something; he does it, demonstrating his active role in creation. Rebuilding and Renewal: It suggests a focus on rebuilding not just physical places but also spiritual areas – restoring people and communities. In short, this verse is a declaration of God’s intention to actively rebuild and restore things that have been damaged, demonstrating his power and purpose through his actions. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the passage? Connect it to a specific story or event in the Bible? Give you a more detailed explanation of any of these concepts?

Definition: Thus saith the Lord GOD; I will yet [for] this be inquired of by the house of Israel, to do [it] for them; I will increase them with men like a flock.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 36:37. It’s a really interesting and symbolic passage about God’s plan for Israel. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, God is saying: “I want to help Israel get stronger and more plentiful – like a flock of sheep.” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Thus saith the Lord GOD…” : This is just God speaking directly to us. “…I will yet [for] this be inquired of by the house of Israel…” : God is asking for a challenge – a test – from the people of Israel. He’s looking for them to do something specific. "...to do it for them..." : This means God wants them to help Israel, not just passively exist. It's about action and service. "...I will increase them with men like a flock." : This is the key part. God is comparing Israel to a flock of sheep. He’s saying that He will increase their numbers – make them larger and more plentiful than they are now. It's like multiplying their strength, resources, and overall prosperity. What does this mean practically? This verse speaks about a period of renewal and restoration for Israel. It suggests God is working to: Restore Their Blessings: The "men like a flock" part implies a return to the blessings that were lost or diminished. Strengthen Their Identity: It's about making them more resilient, capable, and united as a community. In short, it’s a message of hope and blessing for Israel, promising a future of growth and prosperity. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this passage in the context of the Old Testament?

Definition: As the holy flock, as the flock of Jerusalem in her solemn feasts; so shall the waste cities be filled with flocks of men: and they shall know that I [am] the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 36:38. It's a really interesting and symbolic passage about God’s plan for restoration and renewal. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse describes a dramatic and hopeful transformation of a broken and desolate place – essentially, a region that has been marked by sin and hardship. It speaks of God actively working to rebuild and fill that area with people who recognize and appreciate Him. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “As the holy flock…” : This refers to a group of people who are considered spiritually pure and faithful. Think of it like a shepherd's flock – they are cared for and guided by God. “…as the flock of Jerusalem in her solemn feasts…” : This is where it gets really powerful. Ezekiel was writing during a time when the Israelites were experiencing a period of mourning, perhaps due to a broken covenant with God. The “jerusalem” refers to Jerusalem – a city that represents a time of religious observance and remembrance. The "solemn feasts" symbolize important religious gatherings or celebrations. “So shall the waste cities be filled with flocks of men…” : This means that these forgotten areas will be filled with people, not just any people, but a group of people – a flock of men. “Waste cities” are places where there’s been neglect and hardship. “…and they shall know that I [am] the LORD.” : This is the crucial part. God is declaring Himself as the ultimate authority and presence in this area. It's a powerful statement of sovereignty and divine judgment – but also, it's a declaration of His goodness and restoration. Overall Meaning & Significance: This verse paints a picture of God’s active intervention to heal and restore a damaged region. It suggests that God isn’t just planning for things to change; He is actively creating the changes through this process. It's about bringing back a place of holiness, community, and recognition of His authority. Why it’s important: The imagery of the "holy flock" and the restoration of a “waste city” suggests a fundamental shift in God’s plan for humanity and creation. It’s a message of hope – that even after hardship, God can bring renewal and abundance back into a place. Think of it this way: It's like a shepherd gently guiding a flock of sheep back to a pasture, restoring a barren land to its former glory through divine intervention. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of the verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific biblical story or theme? Discuss the symbolism behind the imagery (e.g., the “waste cities”)?