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Book of Ezekiel - Chapter 4 - Verse 16

4:16
Moreover he said unto me, Son of man, behold, I will break the staff of bread in Jerusalem: and they shall eat bread by weight, and with care; and they shall drink water by measure, and with astonishment:

Meaning

This verse from the book of Ezekiel contains a message from God to the prophet Ezekiel, warning the people of Jerusalem about the consequences of their sins. The breaking of the "staff of bread" symbolizes the loss of sustenance and abundance that the people will face. The imagery of eating bread by weight and drinking water by measure reflects a scarcity of resources and a sense of scarcity. God is conveying to the people that they will no longer enjoy the blessings of abundance and will have to ration their food and water carefully. The phrase "with astonishment" emphasizes the shock and disbelief that the people will experience as they struggle to meet their basic needs. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of remaining faithful to God's laws.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of Ezekiel, the phrase "behold, I will break the staff of bread in Jerusalem" is a reference to God's judgment upon the city of Jerusalem. The breaking of the staff of bread symbolizes a severe lack of sustenance, indicating a time of famine and scarcity. The imagery of eating bread by weight and with care, as well as drinking water by measure and with astonishment, conveys the idea of strict rationing and the desperation that comes with it. This passage serves as a warning to the people of Jerusalem about the consequences of turning away from God and disobeying His commandments. Through a theological interpretation, we can understand this verse as a reminder of the importance of remaining faithful to God and following His will, in order to avoid the harsh consequences of judgment.

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