Old Testament
Ezekiel 22:11
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
One man commits a disgusting act with his neighbor's wife. Another defiles his own daughter-in-law. Still another violates his own sister — his father's daughter.
Compare translations
And one hath committed abomination with his neighbour’s wife; and another hath lewdly defiled his daughter in law; and another in thee hath humbled his sister, his father’s daughter.
What Ezekiel 22:11 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Ezekiel highlights the moral decay within a community. It describes three men who engage in deeply immoral acts, showing a complete disregard for family and relationships. The first man betrays his neighbor by committing adultery with his wife. The second man dishonors his family by violating his daughter-in-law. The third man crosses a line by abusing his own sister. These actions reflect a broader issue of corruption and a lack of respect for others. Such behavior not only harms individuals but also tears apart the fabric of society. Ezekiel's message serves as a warning about the consequences of turning away from ethical standards and the importance of maintaining integrity in our relationships. It challenges us to reflect on our own actions and the impact they have on those around us, urging us to uphold values that foster trust and respect in our communities. This verse serves as a reminder that our choices matter and can have far-reaching effects.
How to apply Ezekiel 22:11 to your life
We can learn from this verse to examine our own relationships and ensure we treat others with respect and dignity. It’s essential to uphold ethical standards in our interactions. By doing so, we contribute to a healthier community and foster trust among those we care about. Let’s commit to making choices that honor our relationships and values. We can be a positive influence in our circles by promoting integrity and respect in all our dealings.
Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther

Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Ezekiel 22:11
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Ezekiel 22:11
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Ezekiel
- Author
- Ezekiel the prophet
- Written
- Around 590 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ezekiel 22:11 mean?
Ezekiel 22:11 illustrates the moral decline in a community by describing three men who commit serious sexual offenses against their family members and neighbors. This verse highlights the consequences of abandoning ethical behavior and the resulting harm to relationships and society.
What is the significance of family in Ezekiel 22:11?
In Ezekiel 22:11, family is portrayed as a sacred bond that is being violated through acts of betrayal and immorality. The verse emphasizes the importance of respecting family ties and the devastating effects that such violations can have on both individuals and the community.
What are the main themes in Ezekiel 22:11?
The main themes in Ezekiel 22:11 include moral decay, betrayal, family honor, and the impact of corruption on society. These themes serve as a warning about the consequences of unethical behavior and the need for integrity in relationships.
How does Ezekiel 22:11 relate to community values?
Ezekiel 22:11 relates to community values by showing how individual actions can undermine the trust and respect necessary for a healthy society. The verse serves as a reminder that maintaining ethical standards is crucial for the well-being of the community.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.