Yahweh compares Jerusalem to vine wood whose value lies in fruit, not construction. A fruitless vine burned at both ends and scorched in the middle is useless; the people have failed the purpose for which Yahweh planted them, so Jerusalem is given to judgment.
What use is vine wood? (Ezekiel 15:1–5)
Vine wood is not superior to other wood for ordinary work, nor useful as a pin for hanging a vessel. Once fire burns both ends and scorches the middle, it is even less fit for work. Its value is in bearing fruit.
Jerusalem given to the fire (Ezekiel 15:6–8)
Yahweh applies the parable to Jerusalem’s inhabitants. Escaping one fire will not prevent another from consuming them. Yahweh sets His face against them, and the land becomes desolate because they have committed a trespass.
The chapter’s message
Israel’s privilege carried a purpose: Yahweh sought fruit. National identity alone could not make an unfruitful people useful; Jerusalem’s persistent trespass brought desolation. The image addresses Jerusalem in this judgment setting and does not settle the later restoration promises.