Ezekiel 21:12 in the King James Version of the Bible reads, "Cry and howl, son of man: for it shall be upon my people, it shall be upon all the princes of Israel: terrors by reason of the sword shall be upon my people: smite therefore upon thy thigh."

This verse comes in the context of a prophecy given to Ezekiel by the Lord to deliver to the people of Israel. Throughout the book of Ezekiel, the prophet is called to deliver messages of warning, judgment, and hope to the people of Israel. In this particular passage, the Lord is telling Ezekiel to cry and howl, symbolizing the imminent judgment and destruction that will come upon the people of Israel.

The verse uses strong and evocative language to convey the severity of the situation. The command to cry and howl signifies the intensity of the sorrow and despair that will come upon the people. It is a call to mourning and lamentation for the impending doom that will befall them. The image of smiting upon the thigh is a gesture of grief and mourning, adding to the sense of desperation and distress.

The phrase "it shall be upon my people" indicates that the judgment is directed at the entire nation of Israel. The terrors brought about by the sword represent the violence and devastation that will come upon them as a result of their disobedience and unfaithfulness. The use of the word "princes" also suggests that the judgment will not spare even those in positions of power and authority. This reinforces the idea that no one will be exempt from the consequences of their actions.

The broader thematic context of this verse is the concept of divine judgment and the consequences of disobedience. Throughout the Bible, there are numerous examples of God warning His people of the repercussions of turning away from Him and His commandments. In this passage, it is clear that the people of Israel have strayed from God's will, and as a result, they will face the terrifying consequences of their choices.

The symbolic imagery in this verse serves to highlight the severity of the situation and the urgency of the message being conveyed. The use of the terms "cry and howl" and "smite upon thy thigh" evokes a sense of mourning and grief, emphasizing the gravity of the situation. It is a powerful and emotive way of communicating the impending judgment and the need for repentance.

Overall, Ezekiel 21:12 is a stark and sobering reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the reality of divine judgment. It serves as a warning to the people of Israel, urging them to recognize the severity of their actions and to turn back to God before it is too late. The verse encapsulates the themes of divine justice, repentance, and the enduring consequences of our choices. It is a powerful and poignant message that continues to resonate throughout the Bible.