יחזקאל, פרק י״ב, פסוק ט׳

The prophet's unusual, symbolic behavior does not go unnoticed. It provokes a direct reaction from the onlookers, prompting God to address the people's response. God points out to Ezekiel that the Israelites have approached him seeking answers. This indicates a situation where the people have already confronted the prophet to explain his strange actions, though he has not yet replied [מצודת דוד]. Alternatively, this inquiry might simply be a hypothetical scenario rather than an event that has already occurred [ביאור שטיינזלץ].

During this exchange, the Israelites are identified by their deeply rebellious nature. This defiant character raises questions regarding their true motives for questioning the prophet. One approach suggests that despite their stubbornness, the prophet's dramatic actions successfully captured their attention, leaving them genuinely curious and wanting to understand the meaning behind his display [ביאור שטיינזלץ].

A contrasting perspective argues that the people understood the message perfectly well. They recognized that the prophet's actions were clear warnings of an approaching exile. Driven by their rebelliousness, they simply play ignorant. By asking for an explanation, they pretend not to comprehend the obvious message, using their questions as a way to avoid facing the harsh truth [חומת אנך].