18:17 18:17

Ezekiel 18:18

18:19 18:19

Bible Versions

[As for] his father, because he cruelly oppressed, spoiled his brother by violence, and did [that] which [is] not good among his people, lo, even he shall die in his iniquity.
As for his father {H1}, because he cruelly {H6233} oppressed {H6231}, spoiled {H1497} his brother {H251} by violence {H1499}, and did {H6213} that which is not good {H2896} among {H8432} his people {H5971}, lo, even he shall die {H4191} in his iniquity {H5771}.
Yet his father, because he oppressed so cruelly, committed robbery against his brother and never did anything good among his people - he will die for his sins.
As for his father, he will die for his own iniquity, because he practiced extortion, robbed his brother, and did what was wrong among his people.
As for his father, because he cruelly oppressed, robbed his brother, and did that which is not good among his people, behold, he shall die in his iniquity.

Ezekiel 18:18 KJV is a pivotal verse in a chapter that fundamentally redefines the understanding of divine justice and individual accountability in ancient Israel. The prophet Ezekiel confronts the prevailing proverb of his time, which suggested children were punished for their parents' sins.

Context of Ezekiel 18:18

This verse specifically describes the father of a righteous son (mentioned in Ezekiel 18:5-9) and a wicked son (mentioned in Ezekiel 18:10-13). Here, the focus is on the father's personal transgressions: "because he cruelly oppressed, spoiled his brother by violence, and did [that] which [is] not good among his people." This detailed description of his wickedness serves to underscore the divine judgment against him. The preceding verses, particularly Ezekiel 18:2-4, establish the core message that "the soul that sinneth, it shall die," directly countering the idea of inherited guilt.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Individual Accountability: The verse powerfully asserts that each person is responsible for their own actions. The father's death is a direct consequence of his personal "iniquity," not merely a result of a generational curse. This principle is a cornerstone of God's justice, emphasizing personal moral choice.
  • Consequences of Sin: Ezekiel 18:18 clearly links sinful behavior—oppression, violence, and general wickedness—to a tangible consequence: death "in his iniquity." This highlights the serious nature of sin and the certainty of divine judgment for unrepentant transgression.
  • God's Impartial Justice: This passage demonstrates God's commitment to judging individuals based on their deeds, rather than their lineage. It counters the misconception that one's fate is sealed by the actions of ancestors, proclaiming a just and fair divine court.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew words used to describe the father's actions are significant:

  • "Cruelly oppressed" comes from the Hebrew verb 'ashaq (עָשַׁק), which conveys the idea of defrauding, exploiting, or taking advantage of someone, often the vulnerable.
  • "Spoiled his brother by violence" uses the verb gazal (גָּזַל), meaning to rob, plunder, or seize by force. This indicates aggressive and unjust appropriation of another's property or rights.
  • "Die in his iniquity" uses the Hebrew term 'avon (עָווֹן) for iniquity, which refers not only to the sin itself but also its guilt and the punishment due to it. It emphasizes that his death is the rightful penalty for his own personal wickedness.

Practical Application

Ezekiel 18:18 offers profound practical lessons for believers today:

  • Personal Responsibility: It calls us to examine our own lives and actions, recognizing that we are accountable to God for our choices, not for the sins of our parents or ancestors. This encourages personal repentance and a commitment to righteous living.
  • Hope for Change: For those who feel burdened by family histories of sin or dysfunction, this chapter offers immense hope. It affirms that God deals with individuals, and a person can choose to turn from wickedness and live righteously, regardless of their past or lineage. This aligns with the promise of Jeremiah 31:29-30, which also speaks of a time when "everyone shall die for his own iniquity."
  • Justice Prevails: The verse reminds us that while human justice may fail, God's justice is perfect and will ultimately prevail. Those who oppress and act violently will face the consequences of their actions.
Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Ezekiel 3:18

    When I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save his life; the same wicked [man] shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand.

  • Ezekiel 18:20

    The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him.

  • John 8:21

    ¶ Then said Jesus again unto them, I go my way, and ye shall seek me, and shall die in your sins: whither I go, ye cannot come.

  • Isaiah 3:11

    Woe unto the wicked! [it shall be] ill [with him]: for the reward of his hands shall be given him.

  • Ezekiel 18:26

    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.

  • Ezekiel 18:4

    Behold, all souls are mine; as the soul of the father, so also the soul of the son is mine: the soul that sinneth, it shall die.

  • John 8:24

    I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am [he], ye shall die in your sins.
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