Ezekiel

Ezekiel is the name of a major figure in the Hebrew Bible, traditionally identified as a priest who was among the Jewish exiles in Babylon during the early 6th century BCE. The Book of Ezekiel presents his call and mission, his distinctive visions, and a series of oracles that address Jerusalem’s downfall, judgment on surrounding nations, and the promise of future restoration for Israel.

Ezekiel’s writings are known for elaborate symbolic imagery and courtlike dialogues. The opening eyewitness vision of the divine chariot frames his prophetic authority, and the book expands with messages of accountability, social justice, and the holiness of God. Notable motifs include the valley of dry bones, the watchman motif, and a lengthy prophecy of a future temple, restored land, and a renewed presence of God among a transformed people.

Traditionally, Ezekiel is described as the son of Buzi, a priest taken into exile with the first wave in 597 BCE. Modern scholarship generally views the book as the product of Ezekiel and later redactors, composed during the exile and early post-exilic period. The work reflects the Babylonian exile’s historical setting, with themes of judgment, hope, and reconstituted communal worship.

Ezekiel is a canonical prophet in Judaism and Christianity, influencing later prophetic and apocalyptic literature through its visions of divine glory, judgment, and restoration. The name Ezekiel, from Hebrew Yehezkel meaning “God will strengthen,” is used as a given name and surname in various cultures.