Ezekiel 8:3

Ezekiel 8:3 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

He stretched out what looked like a hand and took me by the hair of my head. Then the Spirit lifted me up between earth and heaven and carried me in visions of God to Jerusalem, to the entrance of the north gate of the inner court, where the idol that provokes jealousy was seated.

King James Version KJV

And he put forth the form of an hand, and took me by a lock of mine head; and the spirit lifted me up between the earth and the heaven, and brought me in the visions of God to Jerusalem, to the door of the inner gate that looketh toward the north; where was the seat of the image of jealousy, which provoketh to jealousy.

American Standard Version ASV

And he put forth the form of a hand, and took me by a lock of my head; and the Spirit lifted me up between earth and heaven, and brought me in the visions of God to Jerusalem, to the door of the gate of the inner court that looketh toward the north; where was the seat of the image of jealousy, which provoketh to jealousy.

Bible in Basic English BBE

And he put out the form of a hand and took me by the hair of my head; and the wind, lifting me up between the earth and the heaven, took me in the visions of God to Jerusalem, to the way into the inner door facing to the north; where was the seat of the image of envy.

Free Bible Version FBV

He reached out what seemed to be a hand and picked me up by my hair. The Spirit took me up into the sky, and in the vision God was giving me he carried me to Jerusalem, to the entrance of the north gate of the Temple's inner courtyard, where the offensive idol that made God angry had been placed.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

And he stretched out the likenes of an had, and tooke me by an hearie locke of mine head, and the Spirit lift me vp betweene the earth, and the heauen, and brought mee by a Diuine vision to Ierusalem, into the entry of ye inner gate that lieth toward the North, where remained the idole of indignation, which prouoked indignation.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

And He putteth forth a form of a hand, and taketh me by a lock of my head, and lift me up doth a spirit between the earth and the heavens, and it bringeth me in to Jerusalem in visions of God, unto the opening of the inner gate that is facing the north, where [is] the seat of the figure of jealousy that is making jealous,

World English Bible WEB

He stretched out the form of a hand, and took me by a lock of my head; and the Spirit lifted me up between earth and the sky, and brought me in the visions of God to Jerusalem, to the door of the gate of the inner court that looks toward the north, where there was the seat of the image of jealousy, which provokes to jealousy.

Noah Webster Bible WBS

And he put forth the form of a hand, and took me by a lock of my head; and the spirit lifted me up between the earth and the heaven, and brought me in the visions of God to Jerusalem, to the door of the inner gate that looketh towards the north; where was the seat of the image of jealousy, which provoketh to jealousy.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

And the likeness of a hand was put forth and took me by a lock of my head: and the spirit lifted me up between the earth and the heaven, and brought me in the vision of God into Jerusalem, near the inner gate, that looked toward the north, where was set the idol of jealousy to provoke to jealousy.

Translation for Translators T4T

He reached out what seemed to be a hand and grabbed me by the hair of my head. The Spirit lifted me up high above the earth, and in visions God took me from Babylon to Jerusalem. He took me to the temple, to the north gate, to the place where there was an idol that caused Yahweh to be very disgusted and furious.

Study Highlights

Key words in the translations above are automatically highlighted. Names of God and Jesus are marked in purple, the Holy Spirit in orange, divine action verbs are underlined, and repeated key words are highlighted in yellow.

Enable Study Highlights

God & Jesus

Holy Spirit

Divine Actions

Repeated Words

Berean Amplified Bible — Ezekiel 8:3

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

Ezekiel 8:3 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וַ/יִּשְׁלַח֙ תַּבְנִ֣ית יָ֔ד וַ/יִּקָּחֵ֖/נִי בְּ/צִיצִ֣ת רֹאשִׁ֑/י וַ/תִּשָּׂ֣א אֹתִ֣/י ר֣וּחַ בֵּֽין הָ/אָ֣רֶץ וּ/בֵ֣ין הַ/שָּׁמַ֡יִם וַ/תָּבֵא֩ אֹתִ֨/י יְרוּשָׁלְַ֜מָ/ה בְּ/מַרְא֣וֹת אֱלֹהִ֗ים אֶל פֶּ֜תַח שַׁ֤עַר הַ/פְּנִימִית֙ הַ/פּוֹנֶ֣ה צָפ֔וֹנָ/ה אֲשֶׁר שָׁ֣ם מוֹשַׁ֔ב סֵ֖מֶל הַ/קִּנְאָ֥ה הַ/מַּקְנֶֽה

וַ/יִּשְׁלַח֙ shâlach H7971 to send Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

תַּבְנִ֣ית tabnîyth H8403 pattern N-fs

יָ֔ד yâd H3027 hand N-cs

וַ/יִּקָּחֵ֖/נִי lâqach H3947 to take Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms | Suff

בְּ/צִיצִ֣ת tsîytsith H6734 tassel Prep | N-fs

רֹאשִׁ֑/י rôʼsh H7218 head N-ms | Suff

וַ/תִּשָּׂ֣א nâsâʼ H5375 to lift Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs

אֹתִ֣/י ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM | Suff

ר֣וּחַ rûwach H7307 spirit N-cs

בֵּֽין bêyn H996 between Prep

הָ/אָ֣רֶץ ʼerets H776 land Art | N-cs

וּ/בֵ֣ין bêyn H996 between Conj | Prep

הַ/שָּׁמַ֡יִם shâmayim H8064 heaven Art | N-mp

וַ/תָּבֵא֩ bôwʼ H935 Lebo Conj | V-Hiphil-ConsecImperf-3fs

אֹתִ֨/י ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM | Suff

יְרוּשָׁלְַ֜מָ/ה Yᵉrûwshâlaim H3389 Jerusalem N-proper | Suff

בְּ/מַרְא֣וֹת marʼâh H4759 vision Prep | N-fp

אֱלֹהִ֗ים ʼĕlôhîym H430 God N-mp

אֶל ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep

פֶּ֜תַח pethach H6607 entrance N-ms

שַׁ֤עַר shaʻar H8179 gate N-ms

הַ/פְּנִימִית֙ pᵉnîymîy H6442 inner Art | Adj

הַ/פּוֹנֶ֣ה pânâh H6437 Corner (Gate) Art | V-Qal

צָפ֔וֹנָ/ה tsâphôwn H6828 Zaphon N-fs | Suff

אֲשֶׁר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

שָׁ֣ם shâm H8033 there Adv

מוֹשַׁ֔ב môwshâb H4186 seat N-ms

סֵ֖מֶל çemel H5566 idol N-ms

הַ/קִּנְאָ֥ה qinʼâh H7068 jealousy Art | N-fs

הַ/מַּקְנֶֽה qânâh H7069 to buy Art | V-Hiphil

Hebrew Word Study

Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.

Use ← → arrow keys to navigate between words.

Hebrew Word Reference — Ezekiel 8:3

וַ/יִּשְׁלַח֙ shâlach H7971 "to send" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

To send or depart is the meaning of this Hebrew word, which has various applications in the Bible. It can describe sending someone or something away, or letting something go.

Definition: : depart/send 1) to send, send away, let go, stretch out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to send 1a2) to stretch out, extend, direct 1a3) to send away 1a4) to let loose 1b) (Niphal) to be sent 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to send off or away or out or forth, dismiss, give over, cast out 1c2) to let go, set free 1c3) to shoot forth (of branches) 1c4) to let down 1c5) to shoot 1d) (Pual) to be sent off, be put away, be divorced, be impelled 1e) (Hiphil) to send

Usage: Occurs in 790 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] any wise, appoint, bring (on the way), cast (away, out), conduct, [idiom] earnestly, forsake, give (up), grow long, lay, leave, let depart (down, go, loose), push away, put (away, forth, in, out), reach forth, send (away, forth, out), set, shoot (forth, out), sow, spread, stretch forth (out). See also: Genesis 3:22; Exodus 9:27; Joshua 14:11.

תַּבְנִ֣ית tabnîyth H8403 "pattern" N-fs

This Hebrew word means a pattern or model, like a blueprint for building something. It appears in Exodus 25:40, describing the pattern for the tabernacle. The idea is to follow a specific design or plan.

Definition: 1) pattern, plan, form, construction, figure 1a) construction, structure 1a1) meaning uncertain 1b) pattern 1c) figure, image (of idols)

Usage: Occurs in 17 OT verses. KJV: figure, form, likeness, pattern, similitude. See also: Exodus 25:9; 1 Chronicles 28:12; Psalms 106:20.

יָ֔ד yâd H3027 "hand" N-cs

In the Bible, 'yad' refers to an open hand, symbolizing power or direction. It can also mean strength or a part of something, like a side or a share. The word is used in many contexts, including anatomy and everyday life.

Definition: : hand/arm[anatomy] 1) hand 1a) hand (of man) 1b) strength, power (fig.) 1c) side (of land), part, portion (metaph.) (fig.) 1d) (various special, technical senses) 1d1) sign, monument 1d2) part, fractional part, share 1d3) time, repetition 1d4) axle-trees, axle 1d5) stays, support (for laver) 1d6) tenons (in tabernacle) 1d7) a phallus, a hand (meaning unsure) 1d8) wrists

Usage: Occurs in 1446 OT verses. KJV: ([phrase] be) able, [idiom] about, [phrase] armholes, at, axletree, because of, beside, border, [idiom] bounty, [phrase] broad, (broken-) handed, [idiom] by, charge, coast, [phrase] consecrate, [phrase] creditor, custody, debt, dominion, [idiom] enough, [phrase] fellowship, force, [idiom] from, hand(-staves, -y work), [idiom] he, himself, [idiom] in, labour, [phrase] large, ledge, (left-) handed, means, [idiom] mine, ministry, near, [idiom] of, [idiom] order, ordinance, [idiom] our, parts, pain, power, [idiom] presumptuously, service, side, sore, state, stay, draw with strength, stroke, [phrase] swear, terror, [idiom] thee, [idiom] by them, [idiom] themselves, [idiom] thine own, [idiom] thou, through, [idiom] throwing, [phrase] thumb, times, [idiom] to, [idiom] under, [idiom] us, [idiom] wait on, (way-) side, where, [phrase] wide, [idiom] with (him, me, you), work, [phrase] yield, [idiom] yourselves. See also: Genesis 3:22; Exodus 7:19; Leviticus 14:22.

וַ/יִּקָּחֵ֖/נִי lâqach H3947 "to take" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms | Suff

This Hebrew word means to take or get something, and it is used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to take a wife, to take possession of something, or to receive a gift. For example, in Genesis 2:22, God takes a rib from Adam to create Eve.

Definition: : take 1) to take, get, fetch, lay hold of, seize, receive, acquire, buy, bring, marry, take a wife, snatch, take away 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to take, take in the hand 1a2) to take and carry along 1a3) to take from, take out of, take, carry away, take away 1a4) to take to or for a person, procure, get, take possession of, select, choose, take in marriage, receive, accept 1a5) to take up or upon, put upon 1a6) to fetch 1a7) to take, lead, conduct 1a8) to take, capture, seize 1a9) to take, carry off 1a10) to take (vengeance) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be captured 1b2) to be taken away, be removed 1b3) to be taken, brought unto 1c) (Pual) 1c1) to be taken from or out of 1c2) to be stolen from 1c3) to be taken captive 1c4) to be taken away, be removed 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be taken unto, be brought unto 1d2) to be taken out of 1d3) to be taken away 1e) (Hithpael) 1e1) to take hold of oneself 1e2) to flash about (of lightning)

Usage: Occurs in 909 OT verses. KJV: accept, bring, buy, carry away, drawn, fetch, get, infold, [idiom] many, mingle, place, receive(-ing), reserve, seize, send for, take (away, -ing, up), use, win. See also: Genesis 2:15; Genesis 34:17; Exodus 30:23.

בְּ/צִיצִ֣ת tsîytsith H6734 "tassel" Prep | N-fs

In the Bible, a tassel or fringe is a decorative strip of fabric, often worn on clothing as a reminder of God's commands. It appears in Numbers 15:38 and Deuteronomy 22:12. The Israelites wore these tassels to show their faith.

Definition: fringe, tassel, lock

Usage: Occurs in 3 OT verses. KJV: fringe, lock. See also: Numbers 15:38; Numbers 15:39; Ezekiel 8:3.

רֹאשִׁ֑/י rôʼsh H7218 "head" N-ms | Suff

This Hebrew word means chief or prince, and is used to describe leaders in the Bible, such as in the book of 1 Samuel. It signifies a position of authority and importance.

Definition: : head 1) head, top, summit, upper part, chief, total, sum, height, front, beginning 1a) head (of man, animals) 1b) top, tip (of mountain) 1c) height (of stars) 1d) chief, head (of man, city, nation, place, family, priest) 1e) head, front, beginning 1f) chief, choicest, best 1g) head, division, company, band 1h) sum

Usage: Occurs in 547 OT verses. KJV: band, beginning, captain, chapiter, chief(-est place, man, things), company, end, [idiom] every (man), excellent, first, forefront, (be-)head, height, (on) high(-est part, (priest)), [idiom] lead, [idiom] poor, principal, ruler, sum, top. See also: Genesis 2:10; Numbers 17:18; 2 Samuel 4:7.

וַ/תִּשָּׂ֣א nâsâʼ H5375 "to lift" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to lift or raise something, and it's used in many ways, like lifting a burden or raising someone's status. It appears in books like Genesis and Isaiah, often talking about God lifting people up. It's about supporting or carrying something or someone.

Definition: : raise/take_up 1) to lift, bear up, carry, take 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to lift, lift up 1a2) to bear, carry, support, sustain, endure 1a3) to take, take away, carry off, forgive 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be lifted up, be exalted 1b2) to lift oneself up, rise up 1b3) to be borne, be carried 1b4) to be taken away, be carried off, be swept away 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to lift up, exalt, support, aid, assist 1c2) to desire, long (fig.) 1c3) to carry, bear continuously 1c4) to take, take away 1d) (Hithpael) to lift oneself up, exalt oneself 1e) (Hiphil) 1e1) to cause one to bear (iniquity) 1e2) to cause to bring, have brought

Usage: Occurs in 609 OT verses. KJV: accept, advance, arise, (able to, (armor), suffer to) bear(-er, up), bring (forth), burn, carry (away), cast, contain, desire, ease, exact, exalt (self), extol, fetch, forgive, furnish, further, give, go on, help, high, hold up, honorable ([phrase] man), lade, lay, lift (self) up, lofty, marry, magnify, [idiom] needs, obtain, pardon, raise (up), receive, regard, respect, set (up), spare, stir up, [phrase] swear, take (away, up), [idiom] utterly, wear, yield. See also: Genesis 4:13; Numbers 4:2; 1 Samuel 14:3.

אֹתִ֣/י ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM | Suff

In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

ר֣וּחַ rûwach H7307 "spirit" N-cs

In the Bible, this word for spirit refers to the breath of life, the wind, or a person's mind and emotions, as seen in the book of Ezekiel.

Definition: : spirit 1) wind, breath, mind, spirit 1a) breath 1b) wind 1b1) of heaven 1b2) quarter (of wind), side 1b3) breath of air 1b4) air, gas 1b5) vain, empty thing 1c) spirit (as that which breathes quickly in animation or agitation) 1c1) spirit, animation, vivacity, vigour 1c2) courage 1c3) temper, anger 1c4) impatience, patience 1c5) spirit, disposition (as troubled, bitter, discontented) 1c6) disposition (of various kinds), unaccountable or uncontrollable impulse 1c7) prophetic spirit 1d) spirit (of the living, breathing being in man and animals) 1d1) as gift, preserved by God, God's spirit, departing at death, disembodied being 1e) spirit (as seat of emotion) 1e1) desire 1e2) sorrow, trouble 1f) spirit 1f1) as seat or organ of mental acts 1f2) rarely of the will 1f3) as seat especially of moral character 1g) Spirit of God, the third person of the triune God, the Holy Spirit, coequal, coeternal with the Father and the Son 1g1) as inspiring ecstatic state of prophecy 1g2) as impelling prophet to utter instruction or warning 1g3) imparting warlike energy and executive and administrative power 1g4) as endowing men with various gifts 1g5) as energy of life 1g6) as manifest in the Shekinah glory 1g7) never referred to as a depersonalised force

Usage: Occurs in 348 OT verses. KJV: air, anger, blast, breath, [idiom] cool, courage, mind, [idiom] quarter, [idiom] side, spirit(-ual), tempest, [idiom] vain, (whirl-) wind(-y). See also: Genesis 1:2; Job 6:26; Psalms 1:4.

בֵּֽין bêyn H996 "between" Prep

Between is the meaning of this preposition, used to show a location or a choice, like either or, as seen in Exodus where it describes the space between two objects.

Definition: : between between, among, in the midst of (with other preps), from between

Usage: Occurs in 248 OT verses. KJV: among, asunder, at, between (-twixt...and), [phrase] from (the widest), [idiom] in, out of, whether (it be...or), within. See also: Genesis 1:4; Joshua 24:7; Psalms 68:14.

הָ/אָ֣רֶץ ʼerets H776 "land" Art | N-cs

The land or earth refers to the soil or ground, and can also mean a country, territory, or region. In the Bible, it is used to describe the earth and its inhabitants, and is often translated as 'land' or 'country'.

Definition: : soil 1) land, earth 1a) earth 1a1) whole earth (as opposed to a part) 1a2) earth (as opposed to heaven) 1a3) earth (inhabitants) 1b) land 1b1) country, territory 1b2) district, region 1b3) tribal territory 1b4) piece of ground 1b5) land of Canaan, Israel 1b6) inhabitants of land 1b7) Sheol, land without return, (under) world 1b8) city (-state) 1c) ground, surface of the earth 1c1) ground 1c2) soil 1d) (in phrases) 1d1) people of the land 1d2) space or distance of country (in measurements of distance) 1d3) level or plain country 1d4) land of the living 1d5) end(s) of the earth 1e) (almost wholly late in usage) 1e1) lands, countries 1e1a) often in contrast to Canaan

Usage: Occurs in 2190 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] common, country, earth, field, ground, land, [idiom] natins, way, [phrase] wilderness, world. See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 18:18; Genesis 42:13.

וּ/בֵ֣ין bêyn H996 "between" Conj | Prep

Between is the meaning of this preposition, used to show a location or a choice, like either or, as seen in Exodus where it describes the space between two objects.

Definition: : between between, among, in the midst of (with other preps), from between

הַ/שָּׁמַ֡יִם shâmayim H8064 "heaven" Art | N-mp

The Hebrew word for heaven or sky, it refers to the visible universe and the abode of God. It is often used in the Bible to describe the dwelling place of celestial bodies.

Definition: 1) heaven, heavens, sky 1a) visible heavens, sky 1a1) as abode of the stars 1a2) as the visible universe, the sky, atmosphere, etc 1b) Heaven (as the abode of God) Aramaic equivalent: sha.ma.yin (שָׁמַ֫יִן "heaven" H8065)

Usage: Occurs in 395 OT verses. KJV: air, [idiom] astrologer, heaven(-s). See also: Genesis 1:1; 1 Samuel 2:10; Job 28:21.

וַ/תָּבֵא֩ bôwʼ H935 "Lebo" Conj | V-Hiphil-ConsecImperf-3fs

This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.

Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter

Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.

אֹתִ֨/י ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM | Suff

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

יְרוּשָׁלְַ֜מָ/ה Yᵉrûwshâlaim H3389 "Jerusalem" N-proper | Suff

Jerusalem is the capital city of Palestine, also known as the city of peace. It was the chief city of the united kingdom and the nation of Judah after the split.

Definition: § Jerusalem = "teaching of peace" the chief city of Palestine and capital of the united kingdom and the nation of Judah after the split

Usage: Occurs in 600 OT verses. KJV: Jerusalem. See also: Joshua 10:1; 2 Kings 22:14; 2 Chronicles 24:6.

בְּ/מַרְא֣וֹת marʼâh H4759 "vision" Prep | N-fp

A mirror or vision, like a reflection in a looking glass, used to describe a prophetic vision or a clear view of something.

Definition: 1) vision 1a) mode of revelation

Usage: Occurs in 10 OT verses. KJV: looking glass, vision. See also: Genesis 46:2; Ezekiel 8:3; Daniel 10:16.

אֱלֹהִ֗ים ʼĕlôhîym H430 "God" N-mp

The Hebrew word for God, elohim, refers to the one supreme God, and is sometimes used to show respect to judges or magistrates. It is also used to describe angels or mighty beings. This word is closely related to the name of the Lord, Yahweh, and is often translated as God or gods in the Bible.

Definition: This name means "gods" (plural intensive-singular meaning), "God" Another name of ye.ho.vah (יהוה "LORD" H3068G)

Usage: Occurs in 2246 OT verses. KJV: angels, [idiom] exceeding, God (gods) (-dess, -ly), [idiom] (very) great, judges, [idiom] mighty. See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 22:12; Exodus 3:11.

אֶל ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep

This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.

Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)

Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.

פֶּ֜תַח pethach H6607 "entrance" N-ms

A pethach is an entrance or doorway, like the gates of Jerusalem or the door to the temple, often symbolizing transition or access to a new place.

Definition: opening, doorway, entrance

Usage: Occurs in 154 OT verses. KJV: door, entering (in), entrance (-ry), gate, opening, place. See also: Genesis 4:7; Judges 9:40; Psalms 24:7.

שַׁ֤עַר shaʻar H8179 "gate" N-ms

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means a gate or door, often referring to city entrances or temple doors, like in Genesis and Exodus. It can also symbolize a meeting place or marketplace. The word is used to describe important locations in the Bible.

Definition: : gate 1) gate 1a) gate (of entrance) 1b) gate (of space inside gate, i.e. marketplace, public meeting place) 1b1) city, town 1c) gate (of palace, royal castle, temple, court of tabernacle) 1d) heaven

Usage: Occurs in 302 OT verses. KJV: city, door, gate, port ([idiom] -er). See also: Genesis 19:1; 1 Chronicles 9:18; Psalms 9:14.

הַ/פְּנִימִית֙ pᵉnîymîy H6442 "inner" Art | Adj

This Hebrew word describes something as inner or interior, like the inner part of a person or a building. It is used in Psalm 51:17 to describe a broken spirit.

Definition: inner

Usage: Occurs in 29 OT verses. KJV: (with-) in(-ner, -ward). See also: 1 Kings 6:27; Ezekiel 40:27; Ezekiel 46:1.

הַ/פּוֹנֶ֣ה pânâh H6437 "Corner (Gate)" Art | V-Qal

This Hebrew word means to turn or face something, like looking at a corner or a gate. It appears in descriptions of daily life and interactions, like in Genesis and Psalms. It's about changing direction or focus.

Definition: This name means corner, to turn, to turn back Another spelling of pin.nah (פִּנָּה "Corner( Gate)" H6438)

Usage: Occurs in 128 OT verses. KJV: appear, at (even-) tide, behold, cast out, come on, [idiom] corner, dawning, empty, go away, lie, look, mark, pass away, prepare, regard, (have) respect (to), (re-) turn (aside, away, back, face, self), [idiom] right (early). See also: Genesis 18:22; 2 Kings 13:23; Psalms 25:16.

צָפ֔וֹנָ/ה tsâphôwn H6828 "Zaphon" N-fs | Suff

This word means 'north' and is used to describe a direction or location. In the Bible, it is often translated as 'north' or 'northern side'.

Definition: This name means north Also named: tsa.phon (צָפוֹן "Zaphon" H6829)

Usage: Occurs in 141 OT verses. KJV: north(-ern, side, -ward, wind). See also: Genesis 13:14; Jeremiah 6:22; Psalms 48:3.

אֲשֶׁר ʼăsher H834 "which" Rel

This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.

Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when

Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.

שָׁ֣ם shâm H8033 "there" Adv

The Hebrew word sham means there or then, often used to describe a location or point in time. It can also mean thither or thence, indicating movement or direction. This word is used frequently in the Bible to provide context and clarify the setting of a story.

Definition: 1) there, thither 1a) there 1b) thither (after verbs of motion) 1c) from there, thence 1d) then (as an adverb of time) Aramaic equivalent: tam.mah (תַּמָּה "there" H8536)

Usage: Occurs in 732 OT verses. KJV: in it, [phrase] thence, there (-in, [phrase] of, [phrase] out), [phrase] thither, [phrase] whither. See also: Genesis 2:8; Exodus 21:33; Deuteronomy 19:4.

מוֹשַׁ֔ב môwshâb H4186 "seat" N-ms

A seat can refer to a physical place of sitting or a gathering of people, like an assembly. It can also mean a dwelling place or location, and is sometimes used to describe a group of people living together.

Definition: 1) seat, assembly, dwelling-place, dwelling, dwellers 1a) seat, sitting, those sitting, sitting company or assembly 1b) dwelling place, dwelling 1c) situation, location 1d) time of dwelling 1e) those dwelling, dweller

Usage: Occurs in 43 OT verses. KJV: assembly, dwell in, dwelling(-place), wherein (that) dwelt (in), inhabited place, seat, sitting, situation, sojourning. See also: Genesis 10:30; 1 Samuel 20:25; Psalms 1:1.

סֵ֖מֶל çemel H5566 "idol" N-ms

An idol or image, often referring to a statue or figure worshipped as a god. This concept is seen in the Bible as something that goes against God's commands. It represents a false god or object of worship.

Definition: image, statue, idol

Usage: Occurs in 5 OT verses. KJV: figure, idol, image. See also: Deuteronomy 4:16; 2 Chronicles 33:15; Ezekiel 8:5.

הַ/קִּנְאָ֥ה qinʼâh H7068 "jealousy" Art | N-fs

This word refers to strong feelings of jealousy or envy, often related to romantic or spiritual passion. It can describe human emotions or God's zeal for His people, as seen in the Bible.

Definition: 1) ardour, zeal, jealousy 1a) ardour, jealousy, jealous disposition (of husband) 1a1) sexual passion 1b) ardour of zeal (of religious zeal) 1b1) of men for God 1b2) of men for the house of God 1b3) of God for his people 1c) ardour of anger 1c1) of men against adversaries 1c2) of God against men 1d) envy (of man) 1e) jealousy (resulting in the wrath of God)

Usage: Occurs in 41 OT verses. KJV: envy(-ied), jealousy, [idiom] sake, zeal. See also: Numbers 5:14; Isaiah 9:6; Psalms 69:10.

הַ/מַּקְנֶֽה qânâh H7069 "to buy" Art | V-Hiphil

This verb means to buy or acquire something, and is used to describe God's redemption of His people. It emphasizes ownership and possession, as seen in the stories of God's creation and redemption.

Definition: 1) to get, acquire, create, buy, possess 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to get, acquire, obtain 1a1a) of God originating, creating, redeeming His people 1a1a1) possessor 1a1b) of Eve acquiring 1a1c) of acquiring knowledge, wisdom 1a2) to buy 1b) (Niphal) to be bought 1c) (Hiphil) to cause to possess Aramaic equivalent: qe.na (קְנָא "to buy" H7066)

Usage: Occurs in 76 OT verses. KJV: attain, buy(-er), teach to keep cattle, get, provoke to jealousy, possess(-or), purchase, recover, redeem, [idiom] surely, [idiom] verily. See also: Genesis 4:1; 2 Chronicles 34:11; Psalms 74:2.

Study Notes — Ezekiel 8:3

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
Ezekiel 8:3 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on Ezekiel 8:3
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Ezekiel 8:3
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Ezekiel 8:3
Trapp's Commentary on Ezekiel 8:3
Ellicott's Commentary on Ezekiel 8:3
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Ezekiel 8:3
Cambridge Bible on Ezekiel 8:3
Barnes' Notes on Ezekiel 8:3
Whedon's Commentary on Ezekiel 8:3
Sermons on Ezekiel 8:3

Context — The Vision of Idolatry in the Temple

1In the sixth year, on the fifth day of the sixth month, I was sitting in my house, and the elders of Judah were sitting before me; and there the hand of the Lord GOD fell upon me. 2Then I looked and saw a figure like that of a man. From His waist down His appearance was like fire, and from His waist up He was as bright as the gleam of amber.

3He stretched out what looked like a hand and took me by the hair of my head. Then the Spirit lifted me up between earth and heaven and carried me in visions of God to Jerusalem, to the entrance of the north gate of the inner court, where the idol that provokes jealousy was seated.

4And there I saw the glory of the God of Israel, like the vision I had seen in the plain. 5“Son of man,” He said to me, “now lift up your eyes to the north.” So I lifted up my eyes to the north, and in the entrance north of the Altar Gate I saw this idol of jealousy.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Deuteronomy 32:16	They provoked His jealousy with foreign gods; they enraged Him with abominations.
2	Ezekiel 11:1	Then the Spirit lifted me up and brought me to the gate of the house of the LORD that faces east. And there at the entrance of the gate were twenty-five men. Among them I saw Jaazaniah son of Azzur and Pelatiah son of Benaiah, who were leaders of the people.
3	Ezekiel 5:11	Therefore as surely as I live, declares the Lord GOD, because you have defiled My sanctuary with all your detestable idols and abominations, I Myself will withdraw My favor; I will not look upon you with pity, nor will I spare you.
4	Exodus 20:5	You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on their children to the third and fourth generations of those who hate Me,
5	Ezekiel 40:2	In visions of God He took me to the land of Israel and set me on a very high mountain, on whose southern slope was a structure that resembled a city.
6	Deuteronomy 32:21	They have provoked My jealousy by that which is not God; they have enraged Me with their worthless idols. So I will make them jealous by those who are not a people; I will make them angry by a nation without understanding.
7	Deuteronomy 4:24	For the LORD your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God.
8	Daniel 5:5	At that moment the fingers of a human hand appeared and wrote on the plaster of the wall, near the lampstand in the royal palace. As the king watched the hand that was writing,
9	Ezekiel 11:24	And the Spirit lifted me up and carried me back to Chaldea, to the exiles in the vision given by the Spirit of God. After the vision had gone up from me,
10	Ezekiel 2:9	Then I looked and saw a hand reaching out to me, and in it was a scroll,

Ezekiel 8:3 Summary

[In this verse, Ezekiel is taken on a supernatural journey by the Spirit to see the idol that provokes God's jealousy in the inner court of the temple. This journey shows us that God is concerned about the sin in our lives and wants us to confront it, just like He did with Israel (as seen in Jeremiah 7:9-10). Ezekiel's experience reminds us that God is a jealous God who wants our whole heart, as mentioned in Exodus 20:5. By reflecting on this verse, we can ask ourselves what idols we may be harboring in our own hearts and how we can turn back to God.]

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean that the Spirit lifted Ezekiel up between earth and heaven?

This phrase suggests a supernatural transportation, where Ezekiel was taken out of his physical body to experience a vision of God, similar to what happened to the Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 12:2-4, where he was caught up to the third heaven.

Why did the Spirit take Ezekiel to the entrance of the north gate of the inner court?

The Spirit took Ezekiel to this specific location to show him the idol that provokes jealousy, which was a symbol of Israel's idolatry and disobedience, as mentioned in Deuteronomy 32:16 and Jeremiah 7:9-10.

What is the significance of the idol that provokes jealousy?

The idol that provokes jealousy represents the thing that stirs up God's anger and jealousy, as mentioned in Exodus 20:5 and Deuteronomy 4:24, where God warns His people not to worship other gods or make idols.

How does this verse relate to the overall message of Ezekiel?

This verse sets the stage for Ezekiel's prophetic ministry, where he is called to confront Israel's sin and call them to repentance, as seen in Ezekiel 2:3-7 and Ezekiel 3:17-21, where God commissions Ezekiel as a watchman to warn His people.

Reflection Questions

What are some modern-day idols that can provoke God's jealousy in our lives, and how can we avoid them?
How can we, like Ezekiel, be willing to be transported to uncomfortable places to confront sin and call others to repentance?
What does it mean to be 'carried in visions of God', and how can we experience a deeper sense of God's presence in our lives?
How does the image of being taken by the hair of the head relate to the idea of being under God's control and guidance?

Gill's Exposition on Ezekiel 8:3

And he put forth the form of an hand,.... That is, he that appeared in the likeness of a man, and with so much glory and splendour, out of the midst of the fire and brightness which were about him,

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Ezekiel 8:3

And he put forth the form of an hand, and took me by a lock of mine head; and the spirit lifted me up And he put forth the form of an hand, and took me by a lock of mine head; and the spirit lifted

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Ezekiel 8:3

He put forth a hand; Christ. This was acted visionally, not corporally or actually, and so all that is here spoken of to the end of the 16th verse. The spirit; which indeed is the hand which took him by the head, gently, but with mighty strength. Lifted me up; very probably in the sight of the elders who were with him. Between the earth and the heaven; he seemed to fly as a swift bird through the air. Brought me in the visions of God to Jerusalem; carried me to see Jerusalem, where in visions strange and glorious I beheld what was done there. This was no delusion, but a revelation from heaven; though all was done in an ecstasy, yet he was fully assured of every particular he saw done in the temple, whither he was carried in his spirit, not body, by the hand or Spirit of Christ. To the door of the inner gate; to the door of the gate of the inner court, or court of the priests, . The temple courts had four gates towards the four quarters of the world, and this was the north gate, which opened into the great court, where Ahaz had set up his Damascene altar, , and where the idols were set up too. The image, Baal, which Manasseh had set up, , and Josiah had destroyed, and succeeding kings had again set up. Of jealousy; because it was so notorious an affront to God, who had married Israel to himself, that above all other it provoked him to anger against this people.

Trapp's Commentary on Ezekiel 8:3

Ezekiel 8:3 And he put forth the form of an hand, and took me by a lock of mine head; and the spirit lifted me up between the earth and the heaven, and brought me in the visions of God to Jerusalem, to the door of the inner gate that looketh toward the north; where [was] the seat of the image of jealousy, which provoketh to jealousy.Ver. 3. And he put forth his hand.] As to me, it seemed; for all was visional, not real. And took me by a lock of mine head.] Tanquam herus inofficiosum servum. The prophet seemeth to have had no great mind to the matter, but there was no remedy. Ducunt volentem fata, nolentem trahunt. Where was the seat of the image of jealousy.] Of Baal, likely, for whom wicked Ahaz had been so zealous and against whom God was ever so jealous, as to devour whole lands by the fire of his jealousy.

Ellicott's Commentary on Ezekiel 8:3

(3) Took me by a lock of mine head.—Not, of course, literally, in the body, but in vision. Ezekiel did not actually leave Chaldæa at all, as is shown by Ezekiel 11:24. The door of the inner gate.—This is one of the gates which led from the court of the people to the court of the priests which was on a higher level. In the account of the building of the temple there is no mention of gates leading from the one to the other, but they would naturally have been placed there, as we know they were in the later temple of Herod. The particular gate was the one “which looketh toward the north,” as the one by which the priests went directly to the great altar. The image of jealousy is explained in the following clause, “which provoketh to jealousy.” It is not necessary to consider “jealousy” as a proper name—the name of any particular heathen divinity—but rather as a descriptive name, an image which aroused the Divine indignation. It has even been thought that it is not meant to indicate any particular idol, but is only a picture to set forth the prevailing idolatry. It is, however, altogether probable that at this time there actually were heathen idols set up in the temple, and nothing could give a more vivid picture of the corruption of priests and people alike than the mention of their presence. Idolatry had been growing more general and more bold from the time of Solomon. He built places of worship for the various idols of his wives “in the hill that is before Jerusalem” (1 Kings 11:7); but Ahaz, under the influence of the Assyrian king, had placed an idolatrous altar in the temple itself, removing the brazen altar to make room (2 Kings 16:10-16), and Manasseh afterwards did the same (2 Kings 21:4). All the subsequent kings of Judah, except Josiah, were wicked men, and although this particular sin is not distinctly recorded of Zedekiah, yet it seems altogether likely that he too made use of the temple for idolatrous worship, and that Ezekiel in vision now saw his idols standing in the court.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on Ezekiel 8:3

Verse 3. The image of jealousy] סמל הקנאה semel hakkinah. We do not know certainly of what form this image was, nor what god it represented. Some say it was the image of Baal, which was placed in the temple by Manasses; others, that it was the image of Mars; and others, that it was the image of Tammuz or Adonis. Calmet supports this opinion by the following reasons: - 1. The name agrees perfectly with him. He was represented as a beautiful youth, beloved by Venus; at which Mars, her paramour, being incensed and filled with jealousy, sent a large boar against Adonis, which killed him with his tusks. Hence it was the image of him who fell a victim to jealousy. 2. The prophet being returned towards the northern gate, where he had seen the image of jealousy, Ezekiel 8:14, there saw the women lamenting for Tammuz. Now Tammuz, all agree, signifies Adonis; it was that therefore which was called the image of jealousy. 3. The Scripture often gives to the heathen idols names of degradation; as Baal-zebub, god of flies; Baal-zebul; god of dung. It is likely that it was Adonis who is called The dead, Leviticus 19:27-28; Deuteronomy 14:9, because he was worshipped as one dead. And the women represented as worshipping him were probably adulteresses, and had suffered through the jealousy of their husbands. And this worship of the image of jealousy provoked God to jealousy, to destroy this bad people.

Cambridge Bible on Ezekiel 8:3

3. He does not even say that it was the divine hand that carried him; spirit carried him, the form of the divine hand was merely symbolical. the visions of God] i.e. shewn him by God, ch. Ezekiel 1:1. door of the inner gate] Rather: door of the gate of the inner court looking toward the north, i.e. the northern gate of the inner court. The word “inner” is wanting in LXX. The general opinion has been that the prophet was set down in the inner court, at the inner door of the northern gateway into that court. The term “door,” however, seems in usage to mean the outside entrance; and if the prophet had stood in the inner court he would have had to look northward through the gateway in order to see the image of jealousy, which was certainly not in the inner court. It is more natural to suppose him set down in the outer court, in front of the gateway leading into the inner court. In front of this gateway, in the outer court, stood the image of jealousy, near the entrance. Having seen this the prophet is next brought into the gateway (Ezekiel 8:7), where he enters the chamber of imagery, some one of the cells in the gateway building. From there he is carried outside the sacred enclosure altogether to the north door of the outer court (Ezekiel 8:14), where he finds the women bewailing Tammuz. And finally he is transported into the inner court where he beholds the sun-worship practised in front of the temple-house itself. Previous to this he had not been in the inner court, for when being shewn the idolatries he is always taken to the precise place where they are practised. image of jealousy] Not an image of “jealousy” itself, considered as a deity, but an image which because it provoked to jealousy was named image of jealousy. The “jealousy” of God is a violent emotion or resentment arising from the feeling of being injured (Deuteronomy 32:21). It is uncertain what this image was. The word occurs again, Deuteronomy 4:16, in the sense of similitude or “figure,” and in Phenician with the meaning of “statue,” e.g. in an inscription from Idalion (Corp. Ins. Sem., vol. i. 88, 3, 7, &c.). According to 2 Kings 21:7 Manasseh put a graven image of Ashera in the house of the Lord, which Josiah brought out and burnt (2 Kings 23:6; 2 Chronicles 33:7; 2 Chronicles 33:15). In earlier times the Ashera (A.V. grove) was a tree or pole planted beside an altar. It is not quite certain whether the pole or stock was a substitute for the evergreen tree, when this could not be had, or whether like the sun-image it was the symbol of a goddess. In later times the term seems used as the name of a goddess.

Barnes' Notes on Ezekiel 8:3

In the visions of God - Ezekiel was not transported “in the body,” but rapt “in spirit,” while he still sat amidst the elders of Judah. The inner gate - Or, the gate of the inner court.

Whedon's Commentary on Ezekiel 8:3

3. Took me by a lock of mine head — This also was an appearance. This was a part of the vision. Ezekiel does not only see God, but feels his touch upon his head and can never forget it.

Sermons on Ezekiel 8:3

	Sermon	Description
	God's Holiness - Part 4 by Richard Owen Roberts	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of holiness and the hatred of sin in the eyes of God. He quotes various Bible verses to support his message, including Luke 1
	Your Reasonable Service by Leonard Ravenhill	In this sermon, the speaker discusses the life and achievements of Blaise Pascal, whom he considers the greatest intellectual in world history. He highlights Pascal's early mathema
	A Biblical Family - a Tool in God's Hands (Part 2) by Erlo Stegen	In this final service of a weekend conference on the biblical family, the preacher emphasizes the importance of parents repenting of their sins and seeking forgiveness from God. He
	Visiting the Iniquity of the Fathers by Keith Daniel	In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story about a young boy who expressed his desire to attend Bible school and become a preacher. Years later, the speaker encounters a m
	A Call to Us by Basilea Schlink	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of giving God the first right to our time, money, possessions, and everything that makes life worth living. The speaker highli
	A Message of Reconciliation by Paul Washer	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the offensive nature of the gospel and the justice of God in condemning sinners. He highlights the unity of the Scriptures by drawing parall
	The Insanity of Sin - Part 1 by Joy Dawson	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a clear conscience before God and men. He shares a story about a man who sent telegrams to influential people, caus