Ezekiel 17:13 Meaning and Explanation
“And hath taken of the king's seed, and made a covenant with him, and hath taken an oath of him: he hath also taken the mighty of the land:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Babylon made a covenant with Zedekiah (a survivor from the royal family) and took oaths from him and the land's leaders.
The Context of Ezekiel 17:13
Zedekiah's installation as a vassal king and the covenant oaths that bound him to Babylon.
What Does Ezekiel 17:13 Mean?
From the royal seed left alive, Babylon appointed Zedekiah as king. A formal covenant and oath bound Zedekiah to Babylon—he was installed as a vassal ruler under specific terms of loyalty and tribute. This was a political arrangement designed to maintain stability: Judah would have internal governance while Babylon retained ultimate authority.
The 'mighty of the land'—military leaders and high officials—were also bound by oath. This covenant was not negotiable; it was an imposed agreement that formalized Babylon's dominion and Judah's subordination. Breaking such an oath was not merely political rebellion but violation of a sacred and binding oath before God.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ezekiel 17:13
What does Ezekiel 17:13 mean?
Babylon made a covenant with Zedekiah (a survivor from the royal family) and took oaths from him and the land's leaders.
What is the context of Ezekiel 17:13?
Zedekiah's installation as a vassal king and the covenant oaths that bound him to Babylon.