Old Testament
Ezekiel 16:51
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, God is addressing a community that has strayed far from the right path.
- Author
- Ezekiel the prophet
- Written
- Around 590 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Samaria didn't commit even half the sins you have. You have piled up far more disgusting acts than either of them. By comparison, you've made your sisters look righteous.
Neither hath Samaria committed half of thy sins; but thou hast multiplied thine abominations more than they, and hast justified thy sisters in all thine abominations which thou hast done.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is addressing a community that has strayed far from the right path. He points out that even the neighboring city of Samaria, known for its wrongdoings, has not sinned as much as they have. The people have engaged in numerous actions that are not just wrong but are described as disgusting. Their behavior is so extreme that it makes others look good by comparison. This serves as a wake-up call, highlighting the severity of their actions. The message is clear: they have not only failed to live righteously but have also set a poor example for others. This verse emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and accountability. It challenges individuals to consider their own actions and the impact they have on those around them, urging them to strive for a better path. Recognizing one's faults is the first step toward change and improvement in character and community. The call is to rise above past mistakes and seek a more honorable way of living, one that reflects integrity and goodness.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Ezekiel 16:51 to your life
Consider your actions and how they affect those around you. Are you setting a positive example, or are you contributing to negativity? Strive to improve yourself and inspire others to do the same. Small changes can lead to significant impacts in your community and relationships. Choose to be a force for good today, reflecting on your choices carefully.
Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ezekiel 16:51 mean?
Ezekiel 16:51 highlights the severity of a community's sins by comparing them to those of Samaria, suggesting that their actions are far worse. It serves as a warning about the consequences of straying from righteousness and the importance of self-awareness.
What is the significance of comparing sins in Ezekiel 16:51?
The comparison in Ezekiel 16:51 emphasizes that the community's actions are so egregious that they make others appear righteous by contrast. This illustrates the depth of their wrongdoing and calls for reflection on their moral state.
What does 'multiplied thine abominations' mean in Ezekiel 16:51?
The phrase 'multiplied thine abominations' in Ezekiel 16:51 refers to the community's numerous and severe wrongdoings. It indicates that their actions are not only wrong but also excessive, highlighting a pattern of persistent sin.
How can Ezekiel 16:51 apply to my life today?
Ezekiel 16:51 encourages self-reflection and accountability for one's actions. It challenges individuals to consider how their behavior impacts others and to strive for positive change in their lives and communities.
The Book of Ezekiel
Ezekiel 1: Visions of God
The word of the LORD comes to Ezekiel the priest, the son of Buzi, by the river Chebar in the land of the Chaldeans. He sees visions of God as the heavens open. A great cloud comes from the north with a fire flashing continually and brightness around it, and from the midst appears something like glowing metal. From the fire emerge four living creatures, each with the likeness of a man. Each has four faces and four wings, and their legs are straight with feet like a calf's foot, shining like polished brass. Their faces are those of a man, a lion, an ox, and an eagle, and their wings are joined one to another as they move straight forward without turning.
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