Behold, this was the iniquity of thy sister Sodom, pride, fulness of bread, and abundance of idleness was in her and in her daughters, neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy.
"Behold, this was the iniquity of thy sister Sodom, pride, fulness of bread, and abundance of idleness was in her and in her daughters, neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy." Sodom's sin exceeded sexual immorality to include pride, luxury, and neglect of the poor. The threefold indictment—pride, satiation, idleness—depicts self-centered affluence ignoring others' suffering. This challenges assumptions that Sodom's sin was exclusively sexual. Comfortable prosperity combined with neglect of vulnerable exemplifies covenant violation. True religion requires both right worship and compassionate justice.
Historical Context
Ezekiel's indictment (589 BC) compared Jerusalem unfavorably to Sodom—shocking rhetoric designed to pierce complacency. Archaeological evidence confirms ancient Sodom's wealth and luxury before destruction. The prophets consistently linked prosperity with responsibility: wealth is stewardship requiring generosity and justice. Jerusalem's affluent class (before exile) exploited the poor while maintaining religious ceremonies—the same pattern that destroyed Sodom. The comparison warns wealthy societies that comfortable prosperity combined with indifference to suffering invites judgment.
Questions for Reflection
How does prosperity sometimes breed pride, satiation, and indifference to others' suffering?
What responsibility do affluent believers have toward the poor and needy?
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Analysis & Commentary
"Behold, this was the iniquity of thy sister Sodom, pride, fulness of bread, and abundance of idleness was in her and in her daughters, neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy." Sodom's sin exceeded sexual immorality to include pride, luxury, and neglect of the poor. The threefold indictment—pride, satiation, idleness—depicts self-centered affluence ignoring others' suffering. This challenges assumptions that Sodom's sin was exclusively sexual. Comfortable prosperity combined with neglect of vulnerable exemplifies covenant violation. True religion requires both right worship and compassionate justice.