Theme: The judgement of the LORD reveals his holiness; be silent in his presence, ready to hear

Why does blood on a bare rock rouse God’s vengeance (24:8)?
Since life was considered to be in the blood, uncovered blood was understood to call out for God’s vengeance and wrath. Mosaic law required the blood of animals to be covered with ground (Leviticus 17:13; Deuteronomy 12:16, 24).

Why was Ezekiel not allowed to mourn the death of his wife (24:16)?
There are lots of different interpretations regarding the prohibition on mourning and how it connects with the exiles. Some argue that it highlights the seriousness of sin, mourning is not allowed when sinners receive their due. Others claim that the disaster is so complete that there is no strength for mourning. Given what we read in Ezekiel 10-11 however as well as Leviticus 10:1-16, it is likely that the prohibition on mourning has to do with the fact that the judgement of Jerusalem is seen as a direct encounter with God and his holiness (cf. Leviticus 21:1-4,11). By acting out Aaron’s avoidance of public and ritual mourning, Ezekiel conveys to the people that the fall of Jerusalem will be a major epiphany of divine holiness on earth. In the presence of God’s radiance, silence is appropriate. It testifies to humility before God and a readiness to perceive and wonder at his majesty.

How long did Ezekiel’s silence last (24:27)?
From one week after his inaugural vision (cf. 1:3; 3:16) to the day he received the news that Jerusalem had fallen (33:21-22) Ezekiel’s mouth was silenced. In this time he was able to speak to those who come to him with questions and whenever the LORD had a message for him to share.