What is the valley of dry bones symbolic of?

The valley of dry bones in Ezekiel 37 symbolizes the spiritual death and future restoration of Israel. In this vision, God brings Ezekiel to a valley filled with dry, scattered bones:

“The hand of the Lord came upon me… and set me down in the midst of the valley; and it was full of bones.” (Ezekiel 37:1)

These bones represent the whole house of Israel in their state of exile, despair, and apparent hopelessness:

“Our bones are dry, our hope is lost, and we ourselves are cut off!” (Ezekiel 37:11)

God commands Ezekiel to prophesy to the bones, and as he speaks, the bones come together, flesh and skin cover them, and breath enters them:

“So I prophesied as He commanded me, and breath came into them, and they lived, and stood upon their feet, an exceedingly great army.” (Ezekiel 37:10)

The breath (Hebrew: ruach) signifies the Spirit of God, indicating that this is not just physical revival but spiritual renewal. God explains the vision:

“I will put My Spirit in you, and you shall live, and I will place you in your own land.” (Ezekiel 37:14)

This vision assures Israel that their exile is not the end. Though they are as good as dead in captivity, God promises to restore them as a nation and renew them by His Spirit.

Theologically, the valley of dry bones represents the power of God to bring life where there is death, both nationally and individually. It points to the ultimate restoration of Israel and anticipates the resurrection and spiritual regeneration through Christ.

This vision is a call to trust in God’s power to revive, regardless of how lifeless or hopeless the situation may appear.

 

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