Ezekiel 7:16Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

They will be upon the mountains like doves. These are the fortunate followers; for they traversed the entire world, announcing the mystery of Christ, and carrying it as their melody and instrument.

Those who are rescued from such trials will endure on the heights like doves perched on the rocks. The prophet indicates that only a remnant will remain, and those who are spared will resemble doves lamenting on the precipices.

Those who are rescued from such peril will endure, and they will be upon the mountains like doves in sorrow. They will resemble doves lamenting and crying, for the sound of doves mirrors a mournful cry. Thus says the Lord, I will bring destruction upon all, every individual in his wrongdoing. I will not disregard justice, yet I will mete out to each person the punishment he rightly deserves.

In response to your inquiry regarding the meaning behind Ezekiel's words, "They shall be on the mountains as doves that mourn," I will provide a concise explanation, even though this topic normally requires extensive discussion. The Prophet speaks of the individuals who, during the Babylonian king's invasion, sought refuge in the mountains. He emphasizes that, although they may evade their adversaries, they cannot escape divine retribution. Once in the wilderness, despite having avoided immediate danger, they will still grieve deeply for their loved ones, including wives and children, as well as for other lost relatives.