Ezekiel 5:3 Meaning and Explanation
“Thou shalt also take thereof a few in number, and bind them in thy skirts.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →A small number of hairs are preserved and bound in Ezekiel's garments.
The Context of Ezekiel 5:3
The sign-act shifts here from judgment to the possibility of redemption through a faithful remnant.
What Does Ezekiel 5:3 Mean?
After describing the three judgments, the sign-act introduces mercy. A small number of hairs—a remnant—are preserved by binding them in the prophet's skirts. This remnant will not be destroyed or scattered like the majority. The preservation is deliberate and protective, showing that God's judgment, though severe, is not total annihilation.
The skirts of a garment represent safety and protection in biblical symbolism. By binding the remnant there, Ezekiel acts out God's commitment to preserve a portion of Israel for restoration. This is the first hint in the passage that judgment is not the final word.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ezekiel 5:3
What does Ezekiel 5:3 mean?
A small number of hairs are preserved and bound in Ezekiel's garments.
What is the context of Ezekiel 5:3?
The sign-act shifts here from judgment to the possibility of redemption through a faithful remnant.