a canonical book of the Old Testament, referring chiefly to the degenerate manners and corruptions of the Jews of those times. It abounds with fine sentences and rich comparisons, and discovers a good deal of learning in profane matters.

Ezekiel was carried captive to Babylon with Jehoiakim, and began his prophecies in the fifth year of the captivity. He was contemporary with Jeremiah, who prophesied at the same time in Judea. He foretold many events, particularly the destruction of the temple, the fatal catastrophe of those who revolted from Babylon to Egypt, and the happy return of the Jews to their own land.