Ezekiel 37:9 – “Then he said to me, ‘Prophesy to the breath; prophesy, son of man, and say to it, ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says: Come, breath, from the four winds and breathe into these slain, that they may live.’”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, God commands Ezekiel to prophesy once again, this time to the “breath.” The Hebrew word for “breath” is ruach, which can also mean “spirit” or “wind.” God instructs Ezekiel to call for the breath to come from the “four winds” and breathe life into the lifeless bodies, completing the process of restoration.
This act signifies that life does not come from physical restoration alone—it is God’s Spirit that gives true life. The phrase “that they may live” emphasizes the ultimate goal of God’s work: to bring full, vibrant life, both physically and spiritually.
Historical Context
Ezekiel’s audience, the exiled Israelites, felt like the “slain” described in the vision. They were a scattered and spiritually lifeless people, far from their homeland and estranged from God. By directing Ezekiel to call upon the breath, God was demonstrating that He alone had the power to restore their spirits and bring them back to life as a nation.
The “four winds” symbolize the universal scope of God’s power. It is a reminder to the Israelites that no matter how far they were scattered, God’s Spirit could reach them and bring them together again.
Theological Implications
This verse reveals that true life comes only through God’s Spirit. Physical restoration or outward appearances are incomplete without the Spirit of God breathing life into the situation. It also shows that God actively involves His people in His work—Ezekiel’s role in prophesying highlights the importance of obedience and faithfulness.
The image of the breath coming from the “four winds” reminds us of God’s omnipresence and His ability to bring restoration to anyone, anywhere. This verse points to the power of the Holy Spirit to bring renewal and revival.
Literary Analysis
The language in this verse is rich with symbolism. The repetition of “prophesy” emphasizes Ezekiel’s active participation in God’s plan, while the phrase “four winds” evokes a sense of universality and completeness.
The sequence—from dry bones to restored bodies, and finally to the breath of life—builds anticipation and reflects the comprehensive nature of God’s work. The imagery of breath entering the slain to make them live is both dramatic and deeply spiritual, underscoring the miraculous nature of what is happening.
Biblical Cross-References
- Genesis 2:7: “Then the Lord God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life.” This parallels the breath of life entering the slain in Ezekiel’s vision.
- John 3:8: “The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.” This connects the breath and Spirit of God to spiritual renewal.
- Acts 2:2: “Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting.” The coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost echoes the breath of life in Ezekiel’s vision.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians, Ezekiel 37:9 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of the Holy Spirit in bringing true life and vitality. It challenges believers to depend on God’s Spirit for spiritual renewal and not settle for superficial restoration.
This verse also encourages Christians to trust that God can breathe life into any situation, no matter how hopeless it seems. Whether it’s a struggling relationship, a personal challenge, or a spiritual dry season, the Holy Spirit has the power to bring renewal and restoration.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s instruction to prophesy to the breath reveals His deep desire to bring life to the lifeless. He doesn’t stop at physical restoration—His love drives Him to complete the work by giving His Spirit. This reflects His compassion and His commitment to bring wholeness to His people.
God’s willingness to involve Ezekiel in the process shows His relational nature. He invites His people to participate in His work, allowing them to witness His love and power firsthand.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Ezekiel 37:9 points directly to the life-giving work of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. Just as the breath brought life to the slain, Jesus gives spiritual life to those who believe in Him. In John 11:25, Jesus declares, “I am the resurrection and the life.”
This verse also foreshadows the coming of the Holy Spirit, which Jesus promised to His followers. In John 20:22, Jesus breathes on His disciples and says, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” At Pentecost, the Holy Spirit descends like a rushing wind, empowering the church and bringing spiritual life to believers.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Are there areas of your life where you feel spiritually lifeless? How can you invite the Holy Spirit to breathe new life into those areas?
- How does this verse encourage you to trust in God’s power to bring complete restoration?
- What does it mean to you that God’s Spirit is available to bring life to anyone, anywhere?
- How can you rely more on the Holy Spirit in your daily walk with God?
- How does this verse deepen your understanding of Jesus as the one who brings spiritual and eternal life?