Ezekiel 18:16

Authorized King James Version

Neither hath oppressed any, hath not withholden the pledge, neither hath spoiled by violence, but hath given his bread to the hungry, and hath covered the naked with a garment,

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְאִישׁ֙
any
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
#2
לֹ֣א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#3
הוֹנָ֔ה
Neither hath oppressed
to rage or be violent; by implication, to suppress, to maltreat
#4
חֲבֹל֙
the pledge
a pawn (as security for debt)
#5
לֹ֣א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#6
חָבָ֔ל
hath not withholden
to wind tightly (as a rope), i.e., to bind; specifically, by a pledge; figuratively, to pervert, destroy; also to writhe in pain (especially of partur
#7
וּגְזֵלָ֖ה
by violence
to rob
#8
לֹ֣א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#9
גָזָ֑ל
neither hath spoiled
to pluck off; specifically to flay, strip or rob
#10
לַחְמוֹ֙
his bread
food (for man or beast), especially bread, or grain (for making it)
#11
לְרָעֵ֣ב
to the hungry
hungry (more or less intensely)
#12
נָתָ֔ן
but hath given
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#13
וְעֵר֖וֹם
the naked
nudity
#14
כִּסָּה
and hath covered
properly, to plump, i.e., fill up hollows; by implication, to cover (for clothing or secrecy)
#15
בָֽגֶד׃
with a garment
a covering, i.e., clothing

Analysis

Within the broader context of Ezekiel, this passage highlights covenant through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Ezekiel.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of covenant within the theological tradition of Ezekiel Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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