Ezekiel’s Vision: Finding Resurrection Hope in the Valley of Dry Bones

✨Executive Summary✨

Ezekiel 37, a powerful prophetic vision, paints a vivid picture of spiritual desolation and miraculous restoration. The Lord leads the prophet Ezekiel to a valley filled with dry bones, representing the exiled nation of Israel, seemingly devoid of hope. Through divine power, these bones are reunited, covered with flesh, and brought back to life, symbolizing the resurrection and restoration of Israel. Further, the vision of the two sticks symbolizes the unification of the divided kingdoms of Israel and Judah under one King, the Messiah. This chapter offers a profound message of hope, demonstrating God’s ability to bring life from death and unity from division, urging us to trust in His transformative power even in the most desolate circumstances. The message of Ezekiel 37 is that even in our personal “valleys of dry bones,” God is capable of bringing about profound spiritual and even physical resurrection. It compels us to find resurrection hope in the valley of dry bones.

This chapter, rich with symbolism and theological significance, speaks not only to the immediate context of the Babylonian exile but also resonates with us today, reminding us that God’s power transcends seemingly hopeless situations. Let’s delve into each verse, unlocking the spiritual treasures hidden within Ezekiel’s profound vision.

📖 Ezekiel 37:1-3 – The Valley of Dry Bones

Ezekiel 37:1 (KJV): “The hand of the Lord was upon me, and carried me out in the spirit of the Lord, and set me down in the midst of the valley which was full of bones,”

Ezekiel 37:1 (NKJV): “The hand of the Lord came upon me and brought me out in the Spirit of the Lord, and set me down in the midst of the valley; and it was full of bones all around.”

The opening verse sets the stage for a dramatic encounter. Ezekiel is transported “in the spirit” – not physically, but in a divinely induced state – to a valley overflowing with bones. This vision immediately conveys a sense of profound death and desolation. The “hand of the Lord” signifies divine sovereignty and control. This spiritual transportation resonates with similar experiences of prophets throughout the Old Testament, emphasizing the divine origin of the message. Spiritually, this symbolizes the state of humanity, separated from God, lacking spiritual life. Consider using web hosting to spread the word of God and offer resurrection hope.

Spiritual Application: Are we allowing the “hand of the Lord” to guide us? Are we willing to be taken out of our comfort zones to witness the realities of spiritual death around us?

Ezekiel 37:2 (KJV): “And caused me to pass by them round about: and, behold, there were very many in the open valley; and, lo, they were very dry.”

Ezekiel 37:2 (NKJV): “Then He caused me to pass by them all around; and behold, there were very many in the open valley; and indeed they were very dry.”

The sheer number of bones (“very many”) and their dryness (“very dry”) amplifies the sense of hopelessness. The dryness indicates that these bones had been exposed for a long time, devoid of any remaining life or moisture. This detail emphasizes the complete and utter state of decay. This vivid imagery reflects the spiritual condition of the exiled Israelites, feeling abandoned by God and stripped of all hope for restoration. The “open valley” suggests exposure and vulnerability, further highlighting their plight.

Patristic Insight: St. Athanasius, in *De Incarnatione*, speaks of the corruption of humanity after the Fall, likening it to a state of death: “Τῆς γὰρ τοῦ Θεοῦ παραβάσεως ἀρχὴ τῆς φθορᾶς γεγένηται καὶ τοῦ θανάτου” (For transgression of God became the beginning of corruption and of death). This verse echoes that fallen state.

Spiritual Application: Do we recognize the “dryness” in our own lives? Are we willing to acknowledge the areas where spiritual life seems absent?

Ezekiel 37:3 (KJV): “And he said unto me, Son of man, can these bones live? And I answered, O Lord God, thou knowest.”

Ezekiel 37:3 (NKJV): “And He said to me, “Son of man, can these bones live?” So I answered, “O Lord God, You know.””

God poses a direct question to Ezekiel: “Can these bones live?” Ezekiel’s response, “O Lord God, You know,” is crucial. He doesn’t claim to possess the answer; instead, he acknowledges God’s omnipotence and sovereignty. This is not a statement of disbelief but a humble recognition that resurrection is beyond human capability and rests solely within God’s power. This verse highlights the importance of faith and trusting in God’s unlimited potential, even when faced with seemingly impossible circumstances.

Spiritual Application: When faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges, do we trust in our own abilities, or do we humbly acknowledge God’s power and say, “Lord, You know”?

📖 Ezekiel 37:4-6 – Prophesying to the Bones

Ezekiel 37:4 (KJV): “Again he said unto me, Prophesy upon these bones, and say unto them, O ye dry bones, hear the word of the Lord.”

Ezekiel 37:4 (NKJV): “Again He said to me, “Prophesy to these bones, and say to them, ‘O dry bones, hear the word of the Lord!’””

God instructs Ezekiel to prophesy to the dry bones. This is a seemingly absurd command, highlighting the supernatural nature of the event. The word of the Lord, even directed at lifeless bones, holds immense power. This emphasizes the power of the spoken word, particularly the Word of God, to bring life and transformation. The very act of prophesying demonstrates Ezekiel’s obedience and faith in God’s ability to perform the impossible.

Spiritual Application: Are we obedient to God’s commands, even when they seem illogical or impossible? Are we utilizing the power of prayer and proclaiming God’s Word over seemingly lifeless situations?

Ezekiel 37:5 (KJV): “Thus saith the Lord God unto these bones; Behold, I will cause breath to enter into you, and ye shall live:”

Ezekiel 37:5 (NKJV): “Thus says the Lord God to these bones: “Surely I will cause breath to enter into you, and you shall live.”

The Lord declares, “I will cause breath to enter into you, and ye shall live.” This is a definitive promise of restoration. The word “breath” (ruach in Hebrew) can also be translated as “spirit” or “wind,” alluding to the Holy Spirit. This verse points towards a spiritual resurrection, a renewal of life through the divine Spirit. This divine promise is not contingent on the bones’ worthiness or ability but solely on God’s grace and power.

Spiritual Application: Do we believe that God can breathe new life into our dead situations? Are we actively seeking the infilling of the Holy Spirit in our lives?

Ezekiel 37:6 (KJV): “And I will lay sinews upon you, and will bring up flesh upon you, and cover you with skin, and put breath in you, and ye shall live; and ye shall know that I am the Lord.”

Ezekiel 37:6 (NKJV): “I will put sinews on you and bring flesh upon you, cover you with skin and put breath in you; and you shall live. Then you shall know that I am the Lord.”

This verse describes the step-by-step process of restoration: sinews, flesh, skin, and finally, breath. This detailed account emphasizes the thoroughness of God’s restorative work. The phrase “ye shall know that I am the Lord” highlights the ultimate purpose of the restoration: to bring glory to God and reveal His power and faithfulness. This detailed process parallels the creation account in Genesis, signifying a new creation.

Spiritual Application: Are we allowing God to work progressively in our lives, even in the seemingly small and insignificant areas? Are we seeking to know God more intimately through our experiences?

📖 Ezekiel 37:7-10 – The Bones Come Together

Ezekiel 37:7 (KJV): “So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the bones came together, bone to his bone.”

Ezekiel 37:7 (NKJV): “So I prophesied as I was commanded; and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and suddenly a rattling; and the bones came together, bone to bone.”

Ezekiel obeys and prophesies, and immediately there is a “noise” and a “shaking.” This signifies the beginning of the restoration process, a visible manifestation of God’s power at work. The bones “came together, bone to his bone,” indicating a reassembling and reordering of what was once fragmented and scattered. This illustrates the power of obedience to God’s word, even when the results are not immediately apparent.

Spiritual Application: Do we remain steadfast in our obedience to God’s commands, even when we don’t see immediate results? Do we trust that He is working behind the scenes?

Ezekiel 37:8 (KJV): “And when I beheld, lo, the sinews and the flesh came up upon them, and the skin covered them above: but there was no breath in them.”

Ezekiel 37:8 (NKJV): “Indeed as I looked, the sinews and the flesh came upon them, and the skin covered them over; but there was no breath in them.”

The physical bodies are formed – sinews, flesh, and skin cover the bones. However, they are still lifeless, lacking breath. This demonstrates that physical restoration alone is not sufficient; spiritual life, the breath of God, is essential. This state of incomplete restoration highlights the need for the Holy Spirit to animate and empower.

Spiritual Application: Are we focusing solely on outward appearances and achievements, neglecting the essential aspect of spiritual life and connection with God?

Ezekiel 37:9 (KJV): “Then said he unto me, Prophesy unto the wind, prophesy, son of man, and say to the wind, Thus saith the Lord God; Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe upon these slain, that they may live.”

Ezekiel 37:9 (NKJV): “Also He said to me, “Prophesy to the breath, prophesy, son of man, and say to the breath, ‘Thus says the Lord God: “Come, O breath, from the four winds, and breathe on these slain, that they may live.”’”

Ezekiel is commanded to prophesy to the “wind” (ruach), calling for breath to come from the four winds. The four winds symbolize the entirety of the earth, signifying that the life-giving Spirit comes from all directions, encompassing all people. This emphasizes the universality of God’s grace and the availability of the Holy Spirit to all who call upon Him.

Spiritual Application: Are we open to receiving the Holy Spirit from all sources, recognizing that God’s grace is not limited to a specific place or people?

Ezekiel 37:10 (KJV): “So I prophesied as he commanded me, and the breath came into them, and they lived, and stood up upon their feet, an exceeding great army.”

Ezekiel 37:10 (NKJV): “So I prophesied as He commanded me, and breath came into them, and they lived, and stood upon their feet, an exceedingly great army.”

Ezekiel obeys, and the “breath came into them, and they lived.” This is the culmination of the vision: resurrection and restoration to life. They “stood up upon their feet, an exceeding great army,” signifying not only renewed life but also strength and purpose. This imagery represents the spiritual power and potential of a people revived by the Holy Spirit. The transformation is complete and dramatic.

Spiritual Application: Are we living in the fullness of the life that God has given us? Are we allowing the Holy Spirit to empower us to stand strong and fulfill our purpose in His kingdom?

📖 Ezekiel 37:11-14 – Interpretation of the Vision

Ezekiel 37:11 (KJV): “Then he said unto me, Son of man, these bones are the whole house of Israel: behold, they say, Our bones are dried, and our hope is lost: we are cut off for our parts.”

Ezekiel 37:11 (NKJV): “Then He said to me, “Son of man, these bones are the whole house of Israel. They indeed say, ‘Our bones are dry, our hope is lost, and we ourselves are cut off!’””

God interprets the vision for Ezekiel: “These bones are the whole house of Israel.” This clarifies that the vision is not merely a symbolic representation of death but a direct depiction of Israel’s spiritual state in exile. The Israelites feel hopeless (“our hope is lost”) and cut off from God and their land (“we are cut off”). This verse reveals the deep despair and sense of abandonment experienced by the exiled Israelites.

Spiritual Application: Do we identify with the Israelites’ feelings of hopelessness and abandonment? Do we recognize that even in our darkest moments, God has not forgotten us?

Ezekiel 37:12 (KJV): “Therefore prophesy and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God; Behold, O my people, I will open your graves, and cause you to come up out of your graves, and bring you into the land of Israel.”

Ezekiel 37:12 (NKJV): “Therefore prophesy and say to them, ‘Thus says the Lord God: “Behold, O My people, I will open your graves and cause you to come up from your graves, and bring you into the land of Israel.”

God promises to open their “graves” and bring them back to the land of Israel. This signifies not only a physical return from exile but also a spiritual resurrection from their state of despair and hopelessness. The promise is directed specifically to “my people,” reaffirming God’s covenant relationship with Israel, even in their disobedience.

Spiritual Application: Do we believe that God can open our “graves” – the areas of our lives where we feel trapped and hopeless – and bring us into a place of freedom and restoration?

Ezekiel 37:13 (KJV): “And ye shall know that I am the Lord, when I have opened your graves, O my people, and brought you up out of your graves,”

Ezekiel 37:13 (NKJV): “Then you shall know that I am the Lord, when I have opened your graves, O My people, and brought you up from your graves.”

Again, the purpose of the restoration is emphasized: “Ye shall know that I am the Lord.” God’s actions are intended to reveal His character and faithfulness to His people. The experience of resurrection will lead to a deeper understanding and recognition of God’s power and love.

Spiritual Application: Are we actively seeking to know God more intimately through our experiences, both the good and the bad? Do we recognize His hand at work in our lives, even when we don’t understand His plan?

Ezekiel 37:14 (KJV): “And shall put my spirit in you, and ye shall live, and I shall place you in your own land: then shall ye know that I the Lord have spoken it, and performed it, saith the Lord.”

Ezekiel 37:14 (NKJV): “I will put My Spirit in you, and you shall live, and I will place you in your own land. Then you shall know that I, the Lord, have spoken it and performed it,” says the Lord.”

God promises to put His “Spirit” in them, ensuring their continued life and dwelling in their land. This highlights the importance of the Holy Spirit in sustaining spiritual life and enabling obedience. The phrase “I the Lord have spoken it, and performed it” emphasizes God’s faithfulness and the certainty of His promises. This verse underscores the permanence of God’s restoration, guaranteeing a future filled with His presence.

Spiritual Application: Are we relying on the power of the Holy Spirit to sustain us in our spiritual journey? Do we trust that God will fulfill His promises in our lives?

📖 Ezekiel 37:15-23 – The Two Sticks United

Ezekiel 37:15-17 (KJV): “The word of the Lord came again unto me, saying, Moreover, thou son of man, take thee one stick, and write upon it, For Judah, and for the children of Israel his companions: then take another stick, and write upon it, For Joseph, the stick of Ephraim, and for all the house of Israel his companions: And join them one to another into one stick; and they shall become one in thine hand.”

Ezekiel 37:15-17 (NKJV): “Again the word of the Lord came to me, saying, “As for you, son of man, take a stick for yourself and write on it: ‘For Judah and for the children of Israel, his companions.’ Then take another stick and write on it: ‘For Joseph, the stick of Ephraim, and for all the house of Israel, his companions.’ Then join them one to another into one stick, and they will become one in your hand.””

This section shifts to a new symbolic act: Ezekiel is instructed to take two sticks, one representing Judah and the other representing Joseph (Ephraim), and join them together. These sticks symbolize the divided kingdoms of Judah and Israel, a division that plagued the nation for centuries. The act of joining them signifies the reunification of the nation under one king and one covenant. This act prefigures the ultimate unity that will be achieved in Christ, bringing together Jews and Gentiles into one body.

Spiritual Application: Are we actively working towards unity in the body of Christ, breaking down barriers and fostering reconciliation between different groups and backgrounds?

Ezekiel 37:18-20 (KJV): “And when the children of thy people shall speak unto thee, saying, Wilt thou not shew us what thou meanest by these? Say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God; Behold, I will take the stick of Joseph, which is in the hand of Ephraim, and the tribes of Israel his fellows, and will put them with him, even with the stick of Judah, and make them one stick, and they shall be one in mine hand. And the sticks whereon thou writest shall be in thine hand before their eyes.”

Ezekiel 37:18-20 (NKJV): ““And when the children of your people speak to you, saying, ‘Will you not show us what you mean by these things?’ say to them, ‘Thus says the Lord God: “Surely I will take the stick of Joseph, which is in the hand of Ephraim, and the tribes of Israel, his companions; and I will join them with it, with the stick of Judah, and make them one stick, and they will be one in My hand.”’ And the sticks on which you write will be in your hand before their eyes.”

Ezekiel is instructed to explain the meaning of the symbolic act when asked. God emphasizes that He will be the one to bring about this unification, taking the two sticks and making them one in His hand. The sticks being held before their eyes reinforces the public and undeniable nature of this prophetic act. This verse highlights God’s initiative in bringing about unity, and the assurance that He will accomplish it.

Spiritual Application: Do we trust that God is working to bring unity in our churches and communities? Are we willing to be instruments of His peace and reconciliation?

Ezekiel 37:21-23 (KJV): “And say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God; Behold, I will take the children of Israel from among the heathen, whither they be gone, and will gather them on every side, and bring them into their own land: And I will make them one nation in the land upon the mountains of Israel; and one king shall be king to them all: and they shall be no more two nations, neither shall they be divided into two kingdoms any more at all: Neither shall they defile themselves any more with their idols, nor with their detestable things, nor with any of their transgressions: but I will save them out of all their dwellingplaces, wherein they have sinned, and will cleanse them: so shall they be my people, and I will be their God.”

Ezekiel 37:21-23 (NKJV): ““Then say to them, ‘Thus says the Lord God: “Surely I will take the children of Israel from among the nations, wherever they have gone, and will gather them from every side and bring them into their own land; and I will make them one nation in the land, on the mountains of Israel; and one king shall be king over them all; they shall no longer be two nations, nor shall they ever be divided into two kingdoms again. They shall not defile themselves anymore with their idols, nor with their detestable things, nor with any of their transgressions; but I will deliver them from all their dwelling places in which they have sinned, and will cleanse them. Then they shall be My people, and I will be their God.”

God promises to gather the Israelites from all the nations and bring them back to their land, making them one nation under one king. This promise extends beyond mere physical reunification, including spiritual cleansing and deliverance from idolatry and transgression. The phrase “they shall be my people, and I will be their God” reaffirms the restored covenant relationship between God and Israel. This anticipates the reign of the Messiah, who will unite all believers under His Lordship.

Spiritual Application: Are we striving for spiritual purity and rejecting the idols and temptations that lead us away from God? Are we living in a way that reflects our identity as His people?

📖 Ezekiel 37:24-28 – The Everlasting Covenant

Ezekiel 37:24-28 (KJV): “And David my servant shall be king over them; and they all shall have one shepherd: they shall also walk in my judgments, and observe my statutes, and do them. And they shall dwell in the land that I have given unto Jacob my servant, wherein your fathers have dwelt; and they shall dwell therein, even they, and their children, and their children’s children for ever: and my servant David shall be their prince for ever. Moreover I will make a covenant of peace with them; it shall be an everlasting covenant with them: and I will place them, and multiply them, and will set my sanctuary in the midst of them for evermore. My tabernacle also shall be with them: yea, I will be their God, and they shall be my people. And the heathen shall know that I the Lord do sanctify Israel, when my sanctuary shall be in the midst of them for evermore.”

Ezekiel 37:24-28 (NKJV): ““David My servant shall be king over them, and they shall all have one shepherd; they shall also walk in My judgments and observe My statutes, and do them. Then they shall dwell in the land that I have given to Jacob My servant, where your fathers dwelt; and they shall dwell there, they, their children, and their children’s children, forever; and My servant David shall be their prince forever. Moreover I will make a covenant of peace with them, and it shall be an everlasting covenant with them; I will establish them and multiply them, and I will set My sanctuary in their midst forevermore. My tabernacle also shall be with them; indeed I will be their God, and they shall be My people. The nations also will know that I, the Lord, sanctify Israel, when My sanctuary is in their midst forevermore.””

This section emphasizes the eternal nature of God’s covenant and the enduring reign of “David my servant,” referring to a Messianic king from the line of David. The “everlasting covenant of peace” guarantees a future of security and prosperity for Israel. God’s sanctuary will be in their midst forevermore, signifying His constant presence and protection. This covenant points to the ultimate fulfillment in Christ, who establishes a new and everlasting covenant with all believers.

Patristic Insight: St. Cyril of Alexandria, in his commentary on Isaiah, interprets this “David” as a figure of Christ, the ultimate king and shepherd: “ὁ ἀληθινὸς Δαυῒδ, ὁ Χριστὸς ὁ Θεός” (the true David, Christ the God). This highlights the messianic interpretation of this passage.

Spiritual Application: Are we embracing the peace that God offers through His covenant in Christ? Are we living in a way that reflects His presence in our lives?

💡Key Reflections on Ezekiel 37💡

Here are some key takeaways from this powerful chapter:

• God’s Power to Restore: Even in the most hopeless situations, God has the power to bring about restoration and new life. ✨
• The Importance of Obedience: Ezekiel’s obedience in prophesying to the bones and the wind was crucial in the restoration process. 📖
• The Necessity of the Holy Spirit: Physical restoration alone is not enough; the breath of God, the Holy Spirit, is essential for true life. 🕊️
• The Promise of Unity: God desires unity among His people, breaking down divisions and fostering reconciliation.🤝
• The Everlasting Covenant: God’s covenant with His people is eternal, guaranteeing His presence and protection. 📜
• The Messiah’s Reign: The promise of a king from the line of David points to the ultimate fulfillment in Christ, who reigns forever.👑

❓ FAQ: Understanding Ezekiel 37❓

Here are some frequently asked questions about this significant chapter:

• Q: What does the valley of dry bones symbolize?
  A: The valley of dry bones represents the spiritual state of the exiled Israelites, feeling hopeless and cut off from God. However, it also symbolizes any situation where hope seems lost and restoration seems impossible.
• Q: Why was Ezekiel told to prophesy to the dry bones?
  A: Ezekiel’s act of prophesying demonstrates his obedience to God’s command and underscores the power of God’s word to bring life and transformation, even to seemingly lifeless situations.
• Q: Who is the “David” mentioned in Ezekiel 37:24?
  A: While literally referring to King David, in this context, “David” is often interpreted as a Messianic figure, a future king from David’s lineage who will reign forever, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ.
• Q: What is the significance of the two sticks becoming one?
  A: The two sticks symbolize the divided kingdoms of Israel and Judah, and their unification represents the reunification of the nation under one king, reflecting the ultimate unity of believers in Christ.

Conclusion

Ezekiel 37 offers a powerful message of hope and restoration. It reminds us that even in the darkest valleys of our lives, God is capable of bringing about miraculous transformation. The vision of the dry bones coming to life and the two sticks becoming one speaks to God’s power to overcome despair, reconcile divisions, and fulfill His promises. We can find resurrection hope in the valley of dry bones. By trusting in His sovereignty, obeying His commands, and seeking the infilling of the Holy Spirit, we can experience the fullness of life that He has ordained for us. This chapter isn’t just a historical account; it’s a timeless invitation to believe in the impossible and to experience the life-giving power of God in every area of our lives. The message resounds across the ages: God brings life from death.

Tags

Ezekiel 37, Valley of Dry Bones, Resurrection, Restoration, Prophecy, Israel, Exile, Covenant, Messiah, Unity, Bible Study, Theology, Coptic Orthodox

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Explore Ezekiel 37’s profound message of resurrection hope and restoration. A verse-by-verse commentary on the Valley of Dry Bones, covenant, and Messiah. Find resurrection hope in the valley of dry bones.