Survey of the Old Testament Chapter 31 Ezekiel

The Writing of the Book Four-state composition Use of personal and possessive pronouns Ascribed to the Great Synagogue in Jewish tradition Photo: "I looked, and I saw the likeness of a throne of sapphire above the expanse that was over the heads of the cherubim" (Ezek. 10:1). Winged creatures were often pictured as supporting kings of deity in the ancient world. Here two four-winged sphinxes surround a crescent disk enclosing the upper part of a deity.

The Background Political and religious policies of Manasseh Reforms of Josiah Subordination to Egypt Deportation to Babylon Photo: "They will go into exile as captives" (Ezek. 12:11). Going as captive typically meant a tortured march such as shown in this Assyrian relief.

Structure and Organization Purpose and Message Defense of God's judgment Warning of impending judgment Vengeance against Israel's enemies Promise of new covenant Structure and Organization Anthology of literary forms Lack of strict chronological sequencing Map: The Nations of Ezekiel 25-32

Major Themes "Son of Man“ Ezekiel's Chariot Vision Individual Responsibility Old Testament Apocalyptic Literature Photo: Ezekiel was taken into exile in Babylon at the same time as the Judean king Jehoichin. Records such as this ration tablet from Babylon mention the presence of Jehoichin in captivity.