The prophet. His name is very significant, meaning "the strength of God." The ministry of this man seems to have been carried on by signs and representations, more than by open preaching. The Lord indeed said that Ezekiel was for a sign unto his people. (Ezekiel 24:24-27) And in nothing perhaps do the customs and manners of mankind differ more, than in the method of communication to each other. Language is rather an imperfection, notwithstanding all we boast of its beauty, than an accomplishment. It is most needful in numberless instances, suited to our present state. But in the world of perfection to which we are hastening, the communication of ideas will have a more complete and quick order. The word of God tells us as much, in saying, that in that blessed place, "whether there be tongues they shall cease?" (1 Corinthians 13:8) In the eastern countries, and in the days of the prophets particularly, and even now, modern travellers say, that generally more than half the transactions of life are carried on by signs. The prophets delivered their messages by gesticulations and signs, similar to what was then in common use in common concerns, and thus made their message familiar and easy to be understood. Thus Ezekiel's removing into captivity, digging through the wall, not mourning for the dead, and the like, were declared to be tokens and signs respecting the Lord's dealings with his people. So Jeremiah's girdle hid by the river; the potter's earthen bottle, the wooden yoke he wore about his neck; these were all to the same amount, speaking by action, instead of words, and much better understood by the people. Isaiah speaks of the same signs. (Isaiah 8:18) And Zechariah, of Christ and his fellows. (Zechariah 3:8) In reading Ezekiel's prophecy, particular attention should be had to these things.