The Book of Ezekiel, Chapters 1–24 (The New International Commentary on the Old Testament | NICOT)

by Daniel I. Block

Publisher:

Eerdmans

, 1997

ISBN: 9780802825353

(12)

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Overview

To most modern readers the book of Ezekiel is a mystery. Few can handle Ezekiel’s relentless denunciations, his unconventional antics, his repetitive style, and his bewildering array of topics. This excellent commentary by Daniel I. Block makes sense of this obscure and often misunderstood prophet and demonstrates the relevance of Ezekiel’s message for the church today.

An extensive introduction helps to orient readers of Ezekiel’s prophecies to the times, methods, and message of the prophet and to the special literary features of the book. Block then deals successively with each literary/prophetic unit of Ezekiel. The treatment of each unit consists of a fresh translation of the text accompanied by technical textual notes, a discussion of the style and structure of the pericope, a verse-by-verse commentary on the unit, and theological reflections on the significance of the unit. Throughout the commentary special attention is also paid to the rhetorical methods that the prophet employs to get his message across to his original audience.

A worthy addition to the NICOT series, this commentary will fast be recognized as an invaluable tool for the study of the Old Testament. In bringing questions of contemporary importance to the text of this ancient document, Block convincingly demonstrates not only that the message of Ezekiel can be understood but also that its message is desperately needed by the church in the 21st century.

Verse-by-verse commentary
In-depth discussion of textual and critical matters
Introduction to the authorship, date, purpose, structure, and theology of Ezekiel

Top Highlights

“Ezekiel’s primary audience was the community of Jews in Babylon.” (Page 5)

“Sixth, the vision hints at the impending judgment of Yahweh.^{107” (Page 108)}

“More specifically, however, Israelite confidence in Yahweh was founded on an official orthodoxy, resting on four immutable propositions, four pillars of divine promise: the irrevocability of Yahweh’s covenant with Israel (Sinai), Yahweh’s ownership of the land of Canaan, Yahweh’s eternal covenant with David, and Yahweh’s residence in Jerusalem, the place he chose for his name to dwell (see fig. 1). The nearer the forces of Nebuchadrezzar came, the more the people clung to the promises of God.” (Page 8)

“Ezekiel’s rhetorical agenda is clear: to transform his audience’s (the exiles’) perceptions of their relationship with Yahweh and ultimately to change their behavior.” (Page 15)

“more than any other prophet, Ezekiel is a prophet of the Spirit.” (Page 50)

This encyclopedic study of the first half of the book of Ezekiel blends the best exegetical research from all spectrums of the scholarly world. If you want to know just about everything we know about the life, times, and words of Ezekiel, this is the sourcebook.

—Lawrence Boadt, emeritus professor of Scripture studies, Washington Theological Union

This fine commentary is both lucid and thorough and will be an essential work of reference on the book of Ezekiel.

—Gordon J. Wenham, tutor in Old Testament, Trinity College, Bristol

Block’s commentary is the finest work ever produced on the prophetic writing. His volume is a model of solid exegesis, well-informed biblical theology, and engaging pastoral warmth.

—David S. Dockery, president, Union University, Jackson, TN