Lenten Season · Fifth Sunday of Lent · Year B
If Third Scrutiny of the Elect: Ezekiel 37:12-14
The Valley of Dry Bones
March 14, 2027
Overview & Insights
“O my people, I will open your graves… and I will put my Spirit within you, and you shall live.” (Ezekiel 37:12-14)
The sixth oracle in this section of Ezekiel, the vision of the dry bones, is arguably the most famous and influential passage in this book. As one of the passages from Ezekiel used in the Common Lectionary, it is read during Lent in Year A, and every year in the Paschal Vigil. The use of this passage in the great vigil leading up to Easter underlines the influence of verses 1–14 on Jewish and Christian theology. For while in its context this passage is a symbolic representation of the restoration and reunification of Israel, later readings of Ezekiel’s vision find here the primary image for life after death in Judaism and Christianity: that is, the resurrection of the body. Like the wheels in Ezekiel’s vision of God’s chariot throne in chapters 1–3, the odd and powerful imagery of this passage captured the imagination of African slaves in America.
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Commentary
Commentary on Ezekiel 37:1-14 Working Preacher
Lectionary commentary on the vision of the dry bones and the promise of new life.
Ezekiel 37 Commentary Enduring Word
Verse-by-verse commentary on the valley of dry bones and Israel's restoration.
Ezekiel 37:1-14 Commentary Center for Excellence in Preaching
Reformed preaching commentary connecting the dry bones vision to hopelessness and hope.
Ezekiel 37 Commentary Precept Austin
Verse-by-verse study notes on the vision and its promise that I will open your graves.
Commentary on Ezekiel 37:1-14 workingpreacher.org
The one Lutheran voice on the promise 'I will open your graves' for this Sunday.
Ezechiel 37 (Haydock Commentary, Douay spelling) haydockcommentary.com
Catholic Haydock notes on the dry bones vision, catalogued under the Douay-Rheims 'Ezechiel' spelling.
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What is the Valley of Dry Bones?
The prophet preaches to a valley of dry bones, and by the breath of God they come together, rise, and live, a vision of resurrection and of Israel restored.
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