Ezekiel 3:11 Meaning and Explanation
“And go, get thee to them of the captivity, unto the children of thy people, and speak unto them, and tell them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Ezekiel is sent to the exiles in captivity to deliver God's word, whether they listen or refuse.
The Context of Ezekiel 3:11
Ezekiel is commissioned to address the Judean exiles in Babylon.
What Does Ezekiel 3:11 Mean?
The specific destination is not all Israel but the captivity—the exiles by the river Chebar. These are Ezekiel's immediate audience. His task is simply to speak the word; their response is not his responsibility.
'Whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear' releases Ezekiel from the burden of ensuring success. His role is to deliver the message faithfully. God alone holds each person accountable for their response.
Ezekiel 3:11 in the Original Language
galah (גָּלוּת), 'captivity' — diaspora, the displaced community living in exile far from their homeland.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ezekiel 3:11
What does Ezekiel 3:11 mean?
Ezekiel is sent to the exiles in captivity to deliver God's word, whether they listen or refuse.
What is the context of Ezekiel 3:11?
Ezekiel is commissioned to address the Judean exiles in Babylon.