Old Testament
Ezekiel 22:5
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, the prophet Ezekiel reveals a harsh truth about the people of Jerusalem.
- Author
- Ezekiel the prophet
- Written
- Around 590 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Those who are near and those who are far away will mock you, for you are infamous and greatly troubled.
Those that be near, and those that be far from thee, shall mock thee, which art infamous and much vexed.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the prophet Ezekiel reveals a harsh truth about the people of Jerusalem. They are being ridiculed by those both close to them and far away. This mockery stems from their reputation, which has become infamous due to their actions and the troubles they face. The people are not just facing external challenges; they are also dealing with the consequences of their own choices. Their situation has become a source of shame, leading to scorn from others. This highlights the impact of one's reputation and the way it can affect relationships and community standing. The verse serves as a reminder that our actions can lead to public perception, which can be difficult to change once established. It calls for self-reflection and accountability, urging individuals to consider how their behavior influences not only their lives but also how they are viewed by others. Ultimately, it emphasizes the importance of integrity and the need to strive for a positive legacy in the eyes of the world.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Ezekiel 22:5 to your life
Consider how your actions affect your reputation and relationships. Strive to live with integrity, making choices that reflect your values. Remember that your behavior can influence how others perceive you, so aim to build a positive legacy in your community. Reflect on your choices regularly to ensure they align with your desired image and impact on others. Be mindful of the legacy you leave behind as it shapes your future interactions.
Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ezekiel 22:5 mean?
Ezekiel 22:5 highlights the ridicule faced by the people of Jerusalem from both nearby and distant observers. Their infamous reputation stems from their actions and the troubles they endure, serving as a warning about the consequences of one's behavior.
What is the significance of mockery in Ezekiel 22:5?
The mockery in Ezekiel 22:5 signifies the shame and scorn that results from the people's poor choices. It illustrates how one's reputation can lead to judgment from others, emphasizing the importance of living with integrity.
What does 'infamous' mean in Ezekiel 22:5?
In Ezekiel 22:5, 'infamous' refers to having a bad reputation due to wrongful actions. It indicates that the people of Jerusalem are known for their negative behavior, which has led to their current troubles.
How does Ezekiel 22:5 relate to self-reflection?
Ezekiel 22:5 encourages self-reflection by showing how the people's actions have led to mockery and shame. It serves as a reminder to consider how one's choices impact their reputation and relationships.

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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