Old Testament
Ezekiel 22:9
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 highlights the troubling behavior of certain individuals within the community.
- Author
- Ezekiel the prophet
- Written
- Around 590 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Among you are men who spread tales to shed blood. In your midst, they eat on the mountains and commit lewd acts.
In thee are men that carry tales to shed blood: and in thee they eat upon the mountains: in the midst of thee they commit lewdness.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the prophet Ezekiel highlights the troubling behavior of certain individuals within the community. These people are not just gossiping; they are spreading harmful stories that can lead to violence and bloodshed. Their actions are serious and destructive. Additionally, they engage in immoral activities, particularly in public spaces like the mountains, which symbolizes a lack of shame. This behavior reflects a deeper moral decay within the society. The mention of eating on the mountains suggests a celebration of their wrongdoing, as if they are flaunting their actions without fear of consequences. This passage serves as a warning about the dangers of gossip and immorality, urging us to reflect on our own actions and the impact they have on our community. It challenges us to consider how our words and behaviors can either uplift or harm those around us. Ultimately, it calls for accountability and a return to integrity and respect for one another, emphasizing the importance of building a community based on trust and righteousness.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Ezekiel 22:9 to your life
We should be mindful of our words and actions, recognizing their potential impact on others. Instead of spreading harmful stories, we can choose to uplift and support those around us. Let's strive to create a community where integrity and respect are prioritized, fostering a safe and positive environment for everyone. Our choices matter greatly in shaping our surroundings and relationships. We can make a difference by promoting kindness and honesty.
Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ezekiel 22:9 mean?
Ezekiel 22:9 addresses the harmful behavior of individuals in a community who spread gossip that can lead to violence. It highlights the moral decay present in society, as these individuals also engage in lewd acts, showing a lack of shame and accountability.
What is the meaning of lewdness in Ezekiel 22:9?
In Ezekiel 22:9, lewdness refers to immoral or sexual behavior that is openly displayed. This indicates a disregard for societal norms and a celebration of wrongdoing, contributing to the overall decay of the community.
How does Ezekiel 22:9 relate to community behavior?
Ezekiel 22:9 illustrates how negative behaviors, like gossip and immorality, can erode the integrity of a community. It emphasizes the importance of fostering a culture of respect and accountability to prevent societal decay.
What themes are present in Ezekiel 22:9?
Key themes in Ezekiel 22:9 include gossip, violence, immorality, community decay, and accountability. These themes highlight the serious impact of individual actions on the overall health of a community.

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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