Ezekiel 9:8Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Ezekiel, though he was upright and aware of the deep depravity of the Israelites, was moved with compassion and wept when he witnessed their suffering and downfall. Despite God having disclosed to him the full extent of their iniquity and allowing him to perceive it firsthand, so that he could confront their punishment with fortitude, he still lamented after receiving this understanding. Falling to the ground, he pleaded, "O Lord God! Will You destroy all that remains of Israel?" This plea was not made just once; it occurred again when he witnessed the execution of Jechoniah.

When all those who lacked the mark were struck down, the prophet fell prostrate, thinking, due to the overwhelming number of the slain, that he was the only one remaining. This appeared to contradict the command given by the Lord, that those marked on their foreheads should not suffer harm, which is why it is excluded from the common edition (Vulgate). However, we adhere to the Hebrew text that states, “I am left.” It is noteworthy that he did not say, “I alone,” as such a statement would suggest a contradiction to his implied connection with others marked on their foreheads. To further clarify this expression, “I am left,” we can reference Elijah in the book of Kings, where he laments to God, “Thy altars are thrown down, and I alone am left, and they seek my life” (1 Kings 19:14).

The prophet is mortal and surrenders to compassion. This was similarly true of the blessed Paul, who earnestly wished to be cut off from Christ for the sake of the Jews (Rom. 3:3). Yet the Lord reassures this well-intentioned servant and clarifies the righteousness of the punishment. For He states: