6th Century BC (During the Babylonian Exile)
The Israelites were in exile in Babylon, having been removed from their homeland due to their disobedience to God. This period was marked by a longing for restoration and a return to the land of Israel.
Babylon was the dominant empire, having conquered Jerusalem and taken many Israelites into captivity. The Babylonian Empire was known for its powerful kings, such as Nebuchadnezzar.
The prophecy in Ezekiel 36 is directed towards the mountains of Israel, symbolizing the land that the Israelites longed to return to. The physical setting is the land of Israel, which was desolate and occupied by other nations during the exile.
The Israelites were living in a foreign land, under foreign rule, and were influenced by Babylonian culture and religion. However, they maintained their identity and hope for restoration through the prophetic messages they received.
Ezekiel