Communicating amidst reality: Ezekiel’s communication as a response to his reality

Abstract

The reality of exile was the backdrop of Ezekiel’s prophecies (communication). He respondedto this reality with a word that he claimed he received from YHWH. This word he crafted intoa powerful piece of communication that appealed, with the help of metaphors and images, tothe imaginations of his audience. These imaginations of the future in the end seed the newpossibilities that became their new reality. The question would be if Ezekiel’s communicationprocess could be helpful to leaders who find themselves in a new modern-day reality wherethey are struggling to lead.

Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: Prophetic criticism usually staysclear of practical issues like leadership, communication and change. This article attempts toconstruct a communication model from the prophet Ezekiel’s communication that can helpmodern-day leaders to communicate amidst their reality. It aids in bridging the divide thatexists between Practical Theology and Old Testament Biblical Studies.