Ezekiel 39 Study Notes

39:12-16 Because corpses were considered unclean (Lv 21:1,11; 22:4; Nm 5:2; 6:6-12; 31:19), the Mosaic law required all humans to be given a proper burial (Dt 21:22-23). Numbers 19:11-22 explains not only the contaminating effects of a corpse but also the process by which a person so defiled could be ceremonially cleansed.

39:17-20 The mention of the fattened bulls of Bashan in v. 18 is further confirmation that this is the Lord’s sacrificial feast because fat and blood were normally reserved for him (44:15; Lv 3:17). Bashan, east and northeast of the Sea of Galilee, was famous for its fertile land and fat cows (Dt 32:14; Ps 22:12; Am 4:1).

39:17 This sacrificial feast (Is 34:6-8; Zph 1:7) will consist of the flesh and blood of the armies of Gog that had been killed. Birds and beasts will eat fat and drink blood, elements that were reserved exclusively for the Lord when the Hebrews made animal sacrifices (Lv 3:17). Mention of the fat and blood therefore may be a way of highlighting the Lord’s participation in the annihilation of Israel’s enemies. In standard sacrificial practices, the human worshiper slaughtered an animal before the Lord and partook of the food. For this present feast, the Lord will slaughter humans, and animals will devour their bodies; this contrasts with the standard sacrificial procedure and the future banquet meal that Israel will celebrate on Mount Zion (Is 25:6-10). The feasting of wild animals and birds recalls the threatened covenant curse (Lv 26:22; Dt 28:26). Although humans were to have dominion over nature, in their pursuit of evil they become victims of the natural order.

39:21-24 The image of God hiding his face (v. 24), turning away from Israel and choosing not to help them, also appears in Dt 31:17-18; Ps 13:1-2.

39:25-26 The remembrance that leads to shame (they will feel remorse for their disgrace) also occurs in 6:9; 20:43; 36:31.

39:27-29 Before the destruction of Jerusalem God had promised to “pour out” (Hb shaphak) his wrath on Israel (7:8; 9:8; 20:13,21; 22:22; 36:18). Now in restoring his people he will pour out (Hb shaphak) his Spirit. This reference to the Spirit of God connects the passage in its entirety to chaps. 36-37 with their focus on the Spirit.