Old Testament
Ezekiel 23:49
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 message is clear: the consequences of your actions will come back to you.
- Author
- Ezekiel the prophet
- Written
- Around 590 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Your depravity will be turned back on you, and you will bear the sins of your idols. Then you will know that I am the Lord GOD.
And they shall recompense your lewdness upon you, and ye shall bear the sins of your idols: and ye shall know that I am the Lord GOD.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the message is clear: the consequences of your actions will come back to you. When you indulge in things that lead you away from what is good and true, you will face the results of those choices. The idols you chase after will not save you; instead, they will weigh you down with guilt and regret. This is a reminder that our decisions matter and that we are responsible for what we choose to follow. Ultimately, this experience will lead you to a deeper understanding of who God is. You will realize that He is the one true source of life and meaning. The journey through your mistakes can bring you back to a place of recognition and awareness of God's presence. It’s a call to reflect on your life and the things you prioritize, urging you to turn back to what truly matters. In the end, knowing God is the most important revelation you can have, as it brings clarity and purpose to your life. Embrace this truth and let it guide you forward with hope and understanding.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Ezekiel 23:49 to your life
Consider the things you prioritize in your life. Are they leading you toward fulfillment or away from it? Reflect on your choices and their impact on your well-being. This verse encourages you to turn back to what truly matters and seek a deeper relationship with God. Embrace the journey of self-discovery and growth as you learn from your experiences.
Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ezekiel 23:49 mean?
Ezekiel 23:49 conveys that the consequences of one's actions, particularly in pursuing false idols, will ultimately return to the individual. It emphasizes personal accountability and the realization that turning away from God leads to guilt and regret.
What is the meaning of idolatry in Ezekiel 23:49?
In Ezekiel 23:49, idolatry refers to the worship of false gods or priorities that distract from a true relationship with God. The verse warns that such pursuits will result in bearing the weight of one's sins and recognizing the futility of those choices.
How does Ezekiel 23:49 relate to personal accountability?
Ezekiel 23:49 emphasizes personal accountability by stating that individuals will face the repercussions of their choices, particularly when they pursue idols. It serves as a reminder that one's decisions have real consequences.
What lesson can we learn from Ezekiel 23:49?
The lesson from Ezekiel 23:49 is to reflect on what we prioritize in life and to recognize that turning away from God leads to negative outcomes. It encourages seeking a deeper relationship with God for true fulfillment and understanding.

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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