Ezekiel 39:9

Israel would act only after Gog had been fully defeated and destroyed. Like some great battles in the past, the people would first watch the Lord fight for them. Then they would gather what was left behind (for example, 2 Kings 6:1–7:20; 2 Chronicles 20).

Fire from heaven would destroy Gog’s army. Only their wooden weapons would remain. Israel would use these weapons as firewood for seven years. In the Old Testament, the number seven often represents completeness.

Those who came to take goods from Israel would themselves be taken as goods. The attackers would lose everything. Their weapons would no longer be needed, because Israel’s final enemy had been destroyed.

• In Ezekiel 37, the nation is reunited and lives in peace in its own land. In Ezekiel 38–39, this peaceful picture changes. A new danger appears. These chapters describe the attack, defeat, and removal of the final enemy, called Gog.

  Many readers have tried to identify Gog. Some have connected him with Gyges, king of Lydia, who ruled about 680 to 644 BC. However, the Gog described in the Bible goes beyond any one historical ruler. The text focuses less on who Gog is and more on the worldwide threat from the nations.

  Even this powerful enemy would not truly threaten God’s restored people. God was now living among them. Because of his presence, they were secure.

  These chapters use strong symbols. They are similar to psalms that speak about Zion’s safety (see, for example, Psalms 2, 46). The message is clear. If even a terrible enemy like Gog cannot defeat God’s people, then nothing in all creation can separate them from God’s protection.

• Ezekiel’s description of Gog also includes features of apocalyptic literature (a style of writing that uses symbols and dramatic images to describe God’s final victory over evil; see “Apocalyptic Literature” Theme Note).