3 But take a few hairs and tuck them away in the folds of your garment.
3 And you shall take from these a small number and bind them in the skirts of your robe.
3 "Retrieve a few of the hairs and slip them into your pocket.
3 You shall also take a small number of them and bind them in the edge of your garment.
3 Keep just a bit of the hair and tie it up in your robe.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Ezekiel 5:3
Commentary on Ezekiel 5:1-4
(Read Ezekiel 5:1-4)
The prophet must shave off the hair of his head and beard, which signifies God's utter rejecting and abandoning that people. One part must be burned in the midst of the city, denoting the multitudes that should perish by famine and pestilence. Another part was to be cut in pieces, representing the many who were slain by the sword. Another part was to be scattered in the wind, denoting the carrying away of some into the land of the conqueror, and the flight of others into the neighbouring countries for shelter. A small quantity of the third portion was to be bound in his shirts, as that of which he is very careful. But few were reserved. To whatever refuge sinners flee, the fire and sword of God's wrath will consume them.