Ezekiel 12:13 — The Blind Ruler

Even though he was a captive in Babylon, the prophet Ezekiel uttered oracles regarding his brethren who were as yet in the land of Canaan. One of his prophecies had to do with Zedekiah, who was serving as the “prince in Jerusalem” (Ezekiel 12:10). The prophet announced that the “rebellious house” of Israel, along with the haughty ruler, would be taken into captivity (vv. 11,12). Concerning Zedekiah specifically, Ezekiel, speaking for God, declares: “My net also will I spread upon him, and he shall be taken in my snare; and I will bring him to Babylon to the land of the Chaldeans; yet shall he not see it, though he shall die there” (12:13).

This prophecy almost seems to contain a discrepancy. If the king is to be brought to the land, surely he will see it. That appears to be just common sense. Or is it? The fact is, the prediction is extremely precise.

When the Babylonians came against Jerusalem in 586 B.C., Zedekiah fled the city, hoping to escape the invaders. He was pursued, however, and captured near Jericho. He was then brought to Riblah, north of Canaan. There he was forced to witness the execution of his sons. This was the last scene he was to view upon this earth. His eyes were put out and he was led away to Babylon in chains. Imprisoned there, he finally died in that distant land (2 Kings 25:6,7; Jeremiah 39:7; 52:11). Ezekiel’s prophecy was fulfilled to the letter. And so, in Ezekiel 12:13, underline the expression, “yet shall he not see it,” and in your margin record: Eyes put out; prophecy fulfilled. See Jeremiah 39:7.