Als nu die man naar het oosten uitging, zo was er een meetsnoer in zijn hand; en hij mat duizend ellen, en deed mij door de wateren doorgaan, en de wateren raakten tot aan de enkelen.
Wat betekent dit?
In this verse, a man with a measuring line walks east and measures 1,000 cubits in a stream. The water is only ankle-deep at this point. Ezekiel is being shown a vision by God.
Uitgelegd voor kinderen
Imagine you're walking with a ruler to measure a big puddle. The puddle is only as deep as your shoes at first, but you keep walking and measuring. This is like what Ezekiel is seeing, but it's a special vision from God.
Historische achtergrond
Ezekiel wrote this prophecy around 590-570 BC. He was a prophet to the exiled Israelites in Babylon. This vision was meant to show them a future hope and a return to a promised land with abundant life.
Toepassing voor vandaag
Just as Ezekiel saw a small stream of water, we might face small challenges at first. But like the stream that grew deeper, our faith and courage can grow as we walk with God.
The measurement of 1,000 cubits signifies a large distance, indicating the vastness of the area covered by the vision and the promise of abundant life.
Why is the water only ankle-deep?
The ankle-deep water symbolizes the initial stage of a new beginning. As Ezekiel continues his journey, the water grows deeper, symbolizing the growth of God's blessings.
How does this vision relate to the Israelites?
This vision provided hope and a promise of a future return to a land of abundance for the Israelites who were in exile in Babylon.
What can we learn from this vision today?
Today, we can learn that our faith and the blessings from God can grow as we continue to follow His guidance, even starting from small beginnings.