Chapter 9: Judgment on Jerusalem
1. The Call for Executioners
Yechezkel hears a loud voice commanding:
“Bring near those appointed over the city, each with a weapon of destruction.”
Six men appear from the northern upper gate, each holding a sledgehammer. Among them is one man clothed in linen, carrying a scribe’s tablet. They stand by the copper altar.
2. The Glory Moves and the Command Is Given
The Glory of the G‑d of Israel rises from the cherub to the threshold of the House. G‑d calls the man in linen and commands:
“Pass through Jerusalem and mark the foreheads of those who sigh and mourn over the abominations.”
3. The Order to Strike
To the others, G‑d says:
“Follow him and strike. Show no pity. Slay old men, young men, maidens, children, and women—but do not touch anyone with the mark. Begin at My sanctuary.”
They start with the elders before the House.
- Defilement of the Temple
G‑d commands:
“Defile the House and fill its courts with the slain.”
The executioners go out and strike throughout the city.
- Yechezkel’s Plea
Yechezkel falls on his face and cries:
“Alas, O Lord G‑d! Will You destroy the entire remnant of Israel?”
G‑d responds:
“The iniquity of Israel and Judah is exceedingly great. The land is full of bloodshed and perversion. They say, ‘G‑d has forsaken the earth.’ Therefore, My eye will not spare, nor will I have pity. Their deeds are upon their heads.”
- Completion of the Task
The man in linen returns and reports:
“I have done all that You commanded me.”
