Ezekiel 18:26

Authorized King James Version

When a righteous man turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and dieth in them; for his iniquity that he hath done shall he die.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בְּשׁוּב
man turneth away
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
#2
צַדִּ֧יק
When a righteous
just
#3
מִצִּדְקָת֛וֹ
from his righteousness
rightness (abstractly), subjectively (rectitude), objectively (justice), morally (virtue) or figuratively (prosperity)
#4
עָשָׂ֖ה
and committeth
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#5
בְּעַוְל֥וֹ
in them for his iniquity
(moral) evil
#6
יָמֽוּת׃
and dieth
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill
#7
עֲלֵיהֶ֑ם
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#8
בְּעַוְל֥וֹ
in them for his iniquity
(moral) evil
#9
אֲשֶׁר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#10
עָשָׂ֖ה
and committeth
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#11
יָמֽוּת׃
and dieth
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill

Analysis

Within the broader context of Ezekiel, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of righteousness connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about righteousness, 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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood righteousness. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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