Ezekiel 5:1 Meaning and Explanation
“And thou, son of man, take thee a sharp knife, take thee a barber's razor, and cause it to pass upon thine head and upon thy beard: then take thee balances to weigh, and divide the hair.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Ezekiel is commanded to shave his head and beard, then divide the hair by weight.
The Context of Ezekiel 5:1
Ezekiel 4 ended with the prophet eating defiled bread; now he performs a sign-act involving his own body.
What Does Ezekiel 5:1 Mean?
God instructs Ezekiel to perform a symbolic action. He is to take a sharp tool, cut off all his hair and beard, then use a balance scale to separate the hair into precise portions. This theatrical command sets the stage for the divine message about Jerusalem's judgment that follows.
The shaving itself was an act of humiliation and mourning in ancient Israel. By dividing the hair by weight, Ezekiel demonstrates the careful, measured judgment God is about to execute. Every part represents a portion of the population and a different judgment to come.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ezekiel 5:1
What does Ezekiel 5:1 mean?
Ezekiel is commanded to shave his head and beard, then divide the hair by weight.
What is the context of Ezekiel 5:1?
Ezekiel 4 ended with the prophet eating defiled bread; now he performs a sign-act involving his own body.