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Book of Ezekiel - Chapter 14 - Verse 21

14:21
For thus saith the Lord GOD; How much more when I send my four sore judgments upon Jerusalem, the sword, and the famine, and the noisome beast, and the pestilence, to cut off from it man and beast?

Meaning

The verse "For thus saith the Lord GOD; How much more when I send my four sore judgments upon Jerusalem, the sword, and the famine, and the noisome beast, and the pestilence, to cut off from it man and beast?" is a declaration from God about the impending judgment that will befall Jerusalem. The four judgments mentioned - the sword, famine, noisome beast, and pestilence - symbolize the severity of the punishment that will come upon the city for its sins and disobedience. Each of these judgments represents different forms of destruction and suffering that will impact both humans and animals in Jerusalem. The sword signifies violence and war, famine represents scarcity and hunger, the noisome beast could refer to wild animals or creatures that bring harm, and pestilence signifies disease and plague. God is warning of the devastating consequences that will come upon Jerusalem if they continue to stray from His ways and ignore His commandments. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of staying faithful to God's will.

Theological Overview

One theological interpretation of this verse from Ezekiel is that it serves as a warning from God to the people of Jerusalem. The prophet Ezekiel delivers a message from the Lord, stating that if the people continue in their wicked ways, God will send four severe judgments upon the city: the sword, famine, noisome beasts, and pestilence. These judgments are meant to bring about punishment and discipline for the sins of the people. The word "sore" in the verse signifies the severity and intensity of these judgments, emphasizing the seriousness of the consequences of disobedience to God's will. Each of these judgments represents a different aspect of destruction that will come upon Jerusalem if the people do not turn from their wicked ways. This passage serves as a reminder of God's power and authority to bring judgment upon those who rebel against Him, as well as His desire for repentance and obedience from His people.

American Standard Version

For thus saith the Lord Jehovah: How much more when I send my four sore judgments upon Jerusalem, the sword, and the famine, and the evil beasts, and the pestilence, to cut off from it man and beast!
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