Definition: So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the bones came together, bone to his bone.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down that verse from Ezekiel 37:7. It’s a really interesting and symbolic passage about God’s restoration of something broken. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Ezekiel was prophesying: Ezekiel was a prophet who spoke about the future, predicting things that would happen. God commanded him to speak: God gave Ezekiel a specific message – he was going to tell about a dramatic event. The Event Happened: Something incredible did happen! A huge earthquake shook the earth. What's Happening in the Verse? “So I prophesied as I was commanded…” - This means Ezekiel was fulfilling a prophecy he had already been given by God. He was following His instructions. "...and as I prophesied, there was a noise..." – The earthquake created a loud sound. It wasn't just a normal rumble; it felt like something huge was happening. “...and behold a shaking…” - This is a strong image of a dramatic and violent movement. The ground itself was moving! "...and the bones came together, bone to his bone." – This is the most important part. Ezekiel prophesied that when the earth shook, the bones of all people would be reunited with each other. It’s like a massive, physical reunion of souls. What Does it Mean Figuratively? This verse is often interpreted as a symbol of: God's Restoration: It represents God’s complete and perfect restoration of His creation after a period of disruption or destruction (like the fall of humanity). The End of Suffering & Death: The bones coming together signifies the end of death and suffering, and the beginning of a new, eternal existence. Unity and Reunion: It speaks to God’s intention to bring all people back together in perfect unity, just as His original creation was. In short, it's a vivid image of God's powerful and complete restoration of everything. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Discuss its symbolism in more detail? Give you some historical context about Ezekiel’s time and this prophecy?