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.
When a righteous {H6662} man turneth away {H7725} from his righteousness {H6666}, and committeth {H6213} iniquity {H5766}, and dieth {H4191} in them; for his iniquity {H5766} that he hath done {H6213} shall he die {H4191}.
When the righteous person turns away from his righteousness and commits wickedness, he will die for it - for the wickedness he commits he will die.
If a righteous man turns from his righteousness and practices iniquity, he will die for this. He will die because of the iniquity he has committed.
When the righteous man turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and dieth therein; in his iniquity that he hath done shall he die.
No cross-references found for this verse.
Ezekiel 18:26 (KJV) states, "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." This verse is a stark warning about the consequences of spiritual backsliding and a critical component of Ezekiel's profound message on individual accountability.
Context
Chapter 18 of Ezekiel is a powerful refutation of a common Israelite proverb during the Babylonian exile: "The fathers have eaten sour grapes, and the children's teeth are set on edge" (see Ezekiel 18:2). This proverb suggested that the current generation was being punished for the sins of their ancestors. God, through Ezekiel, vehemently rejects this notion, asserting that each individual is responsible for their own actions and will be judged accordingly. The chapter illustrates three scenarios: a righteous man, a wicked man, and a wicked man who repents. Verse 26 falls within the first scenario, emphasizing that past righteousness does not guarantee future salvation if one deliberately abandons God's ways.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The Hebrew word for "turneth away" is sur (סוּר), which implies a deliberate, active departure or turning aside from a path. It suggests a conscious choice to abandon righteousness. The term "iniquity" (עָוֹן, avon) refers to moral crookedness, guilt, or the consequence of sin, emphasizing the deviation from God's straight path. The repetition of "shall he die" underscores the certainty and severity of the outcome for those who persist in their iniquity after turning from righteousness, echoing the themes of spiritual life and death prevalent throughout the chapter (e.g., God’s desire that none should perish but turn and live).
Practical Application
Ezekiel 18:26 holds profound relevance for believers today. It calls for constant vigilance and perseverance in faith. It reminds us that salvation is not merely a one-time decision but a continuous walk with God. This verse encourages:
This verse serves as a powerful warning against the dangers of spiritual apathy and the critical importance of remaining steadfast in one's commitment to God.