What does the symbolic language in Ezekiel 37:6 mean?
The symbolic language depicts the nation of Israel, scattered dead among the Gentile nations, being restored to national life. The added flesh, skin, and breath represent God bringing the seemingly hopeless people back together and causing them to become a nation of people again, a restoration not yet fully reached.
Les explains that Ezekiel 37's dry bones are not merely a skeleton but a symbol of the nation of Israel scattered among the Gentile nations. The breath entering them is a national breath, meaning they will once again become a nation of people. The symbolic language describes something that was dead and seemingly without hope suddenly coming back to life. Israel's daily presence in the news shows they are well on their way, though the complete fulfillment is still future. He also notes this chapter is the source of the Negro spiritual about the dry bones, but it speaks of far more important national restoration.
And I will lay sinews upon you, and will bring up flesh upon you, and cover you with skin, and put breath in you, and ye shall live; and ye shall know that I am the LORD.
More Questions
What does the flesh and skin imagery in Ezekiel 37 mean?
Ezekiel 37's description of flesh, skin, and breath coming onto the bones is symbolic language that pictures something dead and seemingly without hope suddenly coming back to life.