1. Survey of the Old Testament
Chapter 31
Ezekiel

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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

5. 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.