Yes, the most prominent passage in the Old Testament that describes bones rising to form an army is in
Ezekiel 37:1-14, often referred to as the
Vision of the Valley of Dry Bones.
Here's a breakdown of the key elements:
* The Valley: Ezekiel is taken by the Spirit to a valley full of dry bones.
* The Question: God asks Ezekiel if these bones can live. Ezekiel, wisely, defers to God's knowledge.
* The Prophecy: God commands Ezekiel to prophesy to the bones, telling them to hear the word of the Lord and that God will bring breath into them and they will live.
* The Rattling and Joining: As Ezekiel prophesies, there's a rattling sound, and the bones come together, bone to bone. Sinews, flesh, and skin appear on them, but there's still no breath in them.
* The Second Prophecy: God commands Ezekiel to prophesy to the wind (or breath), to breathe into the slain, that they may live.
* The Breath and the Army: Ezekiel prophesies, and breath enters them, they come to life, and stand on their feet—a vast army.
* The Interpretation: God explains that these bones represent the whole house of Israel in exile, feeling hopeless and cut off. God promises to open their graves, bring them back to the land of Israel, and put His Spirit in them, so they will know He is the Lord. This is a promise of restoration and renewal.
This vision is a powerful metaphor for the spiritual resurrection and restoration of Israel. It speaks to God's ability to bring life out of death and to fulfill His promises, even when circumstances seem utterly hopeless.