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Ezekiel

Ezekiel was an Israelite priest and prophet of the Hebrew Bible, active during the Babylonian exile in the 6th century BCE.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Ezekiel was an Israelite priest and prophet of the Hebrew Bible, active during the Babylonian exile in the 6th century BCE. The biblical Book of Ezekiel is named after him and records visions, symbolic actions, and messages of judgment and restoration attributed to him. He is recognised in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam as a prophet.

Historical and biblical setting

Ezekiel is associated with the early 6th century BCE, when Judah was under Babylonian rule and many elites were exiled to Babylon. Sources describe him as a priest who lived among the exiles and delivered prophetic messages during that period.

Book of Ezekiel

The biblical book bearing Ezekiel’s name presents visions, symbolic actions, and oracles linked to his ministry. It is part of the Hebrew Bible and the Christian Old Testament.

Themes and message

Ezekiel’s prophecies emphasise judgment for covenant unfaithfulness, the destruction of Jerusalem, and eventual restoration. The book is known for vivid imagery, including visions of divine glory and the valley of dry bones.

Religious significance

Ezekiel is regarded as a major prophetic figure in Judaism and Christianity, and is also acknowledged in Islam. Later interpretation has linked his writings to themes of exile, holiness, and renewal.

Key facts

  • Ezekiel is described as an Israelite priest and prophet in the Hebrew Bible.
  • He was active during the Babylonian exile after the deportation of Judean elites to Babylon.
  • The Book of Ezekiel is named after him and contains visions, symbolic acts, and prophetic messages.
  • Biblical tradition places him among the exiles in Babylon and identifies him as the son of Buzi.
  • His prophecies address Jerusalem’s destruction and later themes of restoration and hope.
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Canadian context

Ezekiel is a major figure in the biblical traditions studied in Canadian schools, universities, churches, and synagogues, and his book remains influential in literature, theology, and religious education in Canada.

Frequently asked questions

Who was Ezekiel?
Ezekiel was an Israelite priest and prophet who lived during the Babylonian exile in the 6th century BCE.
What is Ezekiel known for?
He is known for prophetic visions, symbolic actions, and messages about judgment and restoration recorded in the Book of Ezekiel.
When did Ezekiel live?
He is traditionally placed in the 6th century BCE, during the Babylonian exile.
What text is named after Ezekiel?
The Book of Ezekiel in the Hebrew Bible and Christian Old Testament is named after him.
Was Ezekiel a priest?
Yes. Sources describe Ezekiel as a priest, and also as a prophet.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ezekiel
    Supports: Ezekiel as an Israelite priest and prophet; association with the Book of Ezekiel; traditional death around 570 BCE.
  2. Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/Ezekiel-Hebrew-prophet
    Supports: Ezekiel as a 6th-century BCE prophet-priest of ancient Israel and subject/part author of the biblical book.
  3. Bible Odyssey — https://www.bibleodyssey.org/articles/ezekiel/
    Supports: Ezekiel as a priest taken into Babylonian exile and functioning as a prophet during the exile.
  4. Chabad.org — https://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/112374/jewish/The-Story-of-Ezekiel-in-the-Bible.htm
    Supports: Traditional Jewish presentation of Ezekiel as a prophet, his Babylonian setting, and major visions.
  5. EBSCO — https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/religion-and-philosophy/ezekiel
    Supports: Ezekiel's exile in Babylon, priestly background, prophetic career, and themes of restoration.