Ezekiel 2:6 Meaning and Explanation
“And thou, son of man, be not afraid of them, neither be afraid of their words, though briers and thorns be with thee, and thou dost dwell among scorpions: be not afraid of their words, nor be dismayed at their looks, though they be a rebellious house.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God commands Ezekiel not to fear the hostile resistance he will face.
The Context of Ezekiel 2:6
God strengthens Ezekiel against the fear of Israel's antagonism.
What Does Ezekiel 2:6 Mean?
God directly addresses Ezekiel's likely inner conflict: fear of a rebellious people. The imagery of briers, thorns, and scorpions conveys hostile, painful surroundings. These metaphors suggest an environment actively harmful—words that wound, looks that intimidate, a community arrayed against the prophet. Fear is natural in such circumstances.
Yet God forbids fear with repeated emphasis: be not afraid, be not dismayed. This is not denial of real danger but a call to trust God above human opposition. Ezekiel is empowered by the Spirit (verse 2) and commissioned by the Lord; these realities anchor his courage despite the hostile environment.
Ezekiel 2:6 in the Original Language
chananqim (חָנַנְקִים), 'scorpions' — a symbol of danger and hostile attack, heightening the sense of threat.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ezekiel 2:6
What does Ezekiel 2:6 mean?
God commands Ezekiel not to fear the hostile resistance he will face.
What is the context of Ezekiel 2:6?
God strengthens Ezekiel against the fear of Israel's antagonism.