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Book of Ezekiel - Chapter 19 - Verse 14

19:14
And fire is gone out of a rod of her branches, which hath devoured her fruit, so that she hath no strong rod to be a sceptre to rule. This is a lamentation, and shall be for a lamentation.

Meaning

The verse reflects a sense of loss and mourning for a once-powerful entity that has now been reduced to a state of weakness and vulnerability. The image of fire consuming the branches symbolizes destruction and decay, leading to the loss of strength and authority. The rod, which typically represents power and authority, has been devoured by the fire, leaving the entity without a firm foundation to rule from. The mention of a sceptre further emphasizes the idea of leadership and governance being taken away. The overall tone of the verse is one of lamentation, mourning the fall from grace and power. It highlights the consequences of neglect or destruction, resulting in the inability to uphold authority and control. This verse serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of nurturing and preserving strength and authority to prevent a similar downfall.

Theological Overview

One possible theological interpretation of this verse from Ezekiel 19:14 is that it speaks to the downfall of Judah and its royal lineage. The imagery of a rod with fire coming out of its branches symbolizes destruction and decay. The fire that devours the fruit of the rod represents the loss of power and authority. Without a strong rod to be a scepter, Judah is left without a ruler to lead and govern. This lamentation reflects the consequences of disobedience and sin, as Judah's actions have led to their own downfall. The use of powerful imagery in this verse serves as a warning of the consequences of turning away from God and the importance of staying faithful to His commands.

American Standard Version

And fire is gone out of the rods of its branches, it hath devoured its fruit, so that there is in it no strong rod to be a sceptre to rule. This is a lamentation, and shall be for a lamentation.
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