The Babylonian captivity was a significant milestone in the history of Israel. The period leading up to the fall of Jerusalem is linked to King Josiah and his religious reform. Through the work of the Deuteronomist and the religious trends and ideas that emerged just before the destruction, the image of the relationship between Yahweh and his people is essentially recreated.

It is during this very time that the prophet Ezekiel lives and acts, a significant figure who faced persecution from the conquerors. He appears on the scene among his fellow captives in Babylon and delivers Yahweh's message to the people of God. His love for the Temple, the Law, justice, and morality is consistently emphasized in his work.

The grace of God will replace the old with a new, eternal covenant. Every individual is responsible for their actions. The inner renewal of a person requires and entails a new heart and a new spirit. Through his message, the prophet Ezekiel stands at the beginning of the spiritual movement that, through Judaism, reached the 'New Testament'.