יחזקאל, פרק י״ד, פסוק א׳

Ezekiel held a vital role within the exiled community in Babylon, acting as the primary spiritual guide for the nation's leaders [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Following his earlier prophecies, a delegation of elders from the exile of Jehoiachin seeks him out. They settle down in his presence and linger with him [מצודת דוד], putting on the outward appearance of righteous men eager to seek God's guidance and offer prayers [רד״ק, אברבנאל].

However, a dark reality of hidden motives lurks beneath this pious act. Unlike the righteous elders of Judah who sought out the prophet in earlier times, this specific group of leaders consists of wicked men [מלבי״ם]. The manner in which these men arrive reflects the deeper nature of their visit, though opinions differ on how they gathered. One approach suggests that their arrival highlights a unified mindset; they approached the prophet in complete agreement, sharing a single heart set on an evil goal [רש״י, רד״ק]. Another perspective argues the exact opposite, noting that they did not arrive as one organized group. Instead, each elder came individually, and only after arriving did they band together to face the prophet [מלבי״ם, אברבנאל].

Despite their careful attempt to appear innocent as they sit before him, their deception fails. Before the men can even speak a word, God intervenes and warns Ezekiel. He reveals the true identity of these visitors and exposes the deep corruption hidden in their hearts, ensuring that their wicked intentions are completely known to the prophet [רש״י, רד״ק, אברבנאל].