Book of Ezekiel - Chapter 35 - Verse 1

When the phrase "Moreover the word of the LORD came unto me, saying," appears in the Bible, it signifies the initiation of a message or revelation from God. This phrase is often used to introduce a prophetic utterance or command from the Lord to the recipient, emphasizing the divine source of the words that follow. In the context of the biblical text, this phrase serves as a reminder that the words that follow are not simply the words of the human author, but are directly inspired by God himself. It highlights the authority and importance of the message that is about to be delivered, serving as a cue for the reader to pay close attention to the ensuing words. Throughout the Bible, this phrase is used to signal the beginning of a significant communication from God, underscoring the reverence and sacredness of the messages contained within the text.

In the Old Testament, particularly in the prophetic writings, the phrase "the word of the LORD came unto me" is a common way to signal that a prophet is receiving divine revelation. This phrase emphasizes the direct transmission of God's message to the prophet, highlighting the authority and authenticity of the message being delivered. It serves as a reminder to the readers that the words being spoken are not the prophet's own, but rather the words of the LORD. This phrase also underscores the importance of the message that follows, as it is not mere human wisdom or insight, but a communication from the divine. The use of this phrase reinforces the belief in the divine inspiration of scripture and the role of the prophets as messengers of God's will. The theological interpretation of this verse underscores the significance of God's communication with humanity and highlights the special role of the prophets in conveying God's message to the people.