What does it mean to pass under the rod?

The act of passing under the rod, as mentioned in Ezekiel 20:37, serves as a metaphor for God's marking and claiming of His people as His own. In the context of ancient shepherding practices, this act relates to the counting and distinguishing of sheep. Just as a shepherd would mark his sheep to designate ownership, God marks His chosen ones through His sovereign decree. This also implies submission to His authority and will. The rod represents God's discipline and the guiding principles of His covenant, ensuring that His people are recognized and preserved as His remnant, emphasizing the importance of living under His divine care and direction. In the New Testament, this idea extends to believers who are called to submit to the leadership of Christ, the Good Shepherd.