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Bible: The Book of Ezekiel's Later Chapters

This class will read portions of Ezekiel's later chapters (29-34, 36). This includes oracles against Pharaoh, and oracles against Israel's bad shepherds (their kings). With a lengthy metaphor Ezekiel depicts these monarch-shepherds being replaced by God who becomes the people's shepherd, who finds the flock, and brings them home. We'll discuss the metaphor of a prophet warning people away from disobedience, and the implications of God giving Israel a new heart so they won't be unable to disobey. Ezekiel also describes Israel's future return from exile via one of the most famous biblical metaphors: dry bones lying in a field, come together and are restored to life. This scene of national resurrection was used by Ezekiel as a powerful metaphor equating exilic life with death, and a promise to return home with a return to full life. We'll compare Ezekiel's use of this metaphor with other biblical texts that mention death, afterlife, and restoration to life. Bring a copy of the Bible to class (any translation).

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