Ezekiel 18:13
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Ezekiel 18:13
13 Hath given forth upon usury, and hath taken increase: shall he then live? he shall not live: he hath done all these abominations; he shall surely die; his blood shall be upon him.
Chapter Context
Ezekiel 18 is a prophetic vision chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of fellowship, wisdom, obedience. 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 provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 18:13
13 Hath given forth upon usury, and hath taken increase: shall he then live? he shall not live: he hath done all these abominations; he shall surely die; his blood shall be upon him.
Analysis
'Hath given forth upon usury, and hath taken increase: shall he then live? he shall not live: he hath done all these abominations; he shall surely die; his blood shall be upon him.' The wicked son's fate: certain death. The emphatic Hebrew mot yumat ('die, he shall die') mirrors the righteous person's chayah chayah ('live, he shall live'). 'His blood shall be upon him'—he bears responsibility for his own judgment. His father's righteousness cannot save him.
Historical Context
This principle is demonstrated throughout Scripture: Korah's rebellion (Numbers 16), Achan's sin (Joshua 7), Gehazi's greed (2 Kings 5). Each person's sin brings their own judgment. In the New Covenant, only Christ's righteousness can save, which we receive through faith alone.
Reflection
- How does this passage inform our understanding of judgment and personal accountability?
- What is the relationship between generational patterns and individual responsibility?
Word Studies
- Blood: דָּם (Dam) H1818 - Blood
Cross-References
- Blood: Ezekiel 3:18, Leviticus 20:9
- Parallel theme: Ezekiel 18:8, Exodus 22:25