9 "Son of man, prophesy and say, 'This is what the Lord says: " 'A sword, a sword, sharpened and polished-
9 Son of man, prophesy, and say, Thus saith the Lord; Say, A sword, a sword is sharpened, and also furbished:
9 "Son of man, prophesy and say, Thus says the Lord, say: "A sword, a sword is sharpened and also polished,
9 "Son of man, prophesy. Tell them, 'The Master says: "'A sword! A sword! razor-sharp and polished,
9 "Son of man, prophesy and say, 'Thus says the Lord!' Say: 'A sword, a sword is sharpened And also polished!
9 "Son of man, give the people this message from the Lord: "A sword, a sword is being sharpened and polished.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Ezekiel 21:9
Commentary on Ezekiel 21:1-17
(Read Ezekiel 21:1-17)
Here is an explanation of the parable in the last chapter. It is declared that the Lord was about to cut off Jerusalem and the whole land, that all might know it was his decree against a wicked and rebellious people. It behoves those who denounce the awful wrath of God against sinners, to show that they do not desire the woful day. The example of Christ teaches us to lament over those whose ruin we declare. Whatever instruments God uses in executing his judgments, he will strengthen them according to the service they are employed in. The sword glitters to the terror of those against whom it is drawn. It is a sword to others, a rod to the people of the Lord. God is in earnest in pronouncing this sentence, and the prophet must show himself in earnest in publishing it.