Ezekiel 18:11
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Ezekiel 18:11
11 And that doeth not any of those duties, but even hath eaten upon the mountains, and defiled his neighbour's wife,
Chapter Context
Ezekiel 18 is a prophetic vision chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, righteousness, worship. Written during the Babylonian exile (c. 593-570 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ministered to exiles in Babylon with visions of God's glory and future restoration.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-32: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Ezekiel and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Ezekiel 18:11
11 And that doeth not any of those duties, but even hath eaten upon the mountains, and defiled his neighbour's wife,
Analysis
'And that doeth not any of those duties, but even hath eaten upon the mountains, and defiled his neighbour's wife.' The wicked son does the opposite of his righteous father—participating in idolatrous worship and committing adultery. The litany of sins shows comprehensive rebellion: what the father avoided, the son embraces. The point: righteousness and wickedness are matters of personal choice, not family inheritance.
Historical Context
Biblical history confirms this pattern: righteous Hezekiah had wicked son Manasseh; wicked Ahaz had righteous son Hezekiah; righteous Josiah had wicked sons Jehoahaz and Jehoiakim. Each generation faces its own moral choices before God.
Reflection
- How do we avoid both presuming on family heritage and despairing over family failures?
- What does this teach about evangelism and discipleship in each generation?