Old Testament
Ezekiel 33:16
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
None of the sins they previously committed will be held against them. They have done what is just and right, and they will surely live.
Compare translations
None of his sins that he hath committed shall be mentioned unto him: he hath done that which is lawful and right; he shall surely live.
What Ezekiel 33:16 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a powerful promise of forgiveness and renewal. It emphasizes that when someone turns away from their past wrongdoings and chooses to do what is right, their previous sins are completely forgotten. This is not just a legalistic view; it’s about a fresh start. The focus is on the individual’s choice to live justly and righteously. When they make that choice, they are assured of life, not just in a physical sense but also in a deeper, spiritual way. This message is about hope and transformation, showing that no matter how far one has strayed, there is always a path back to a fulfilling life. It encourages us to embrace change and to believe in the possibility of a new beginning, free from the weight of past mistakes. This assurance can inspire us to live with integrity and purpose, knowing that our efforts to do right are recognized and rewarded. It’s a reminder that our past does not define our future, and we can always choose a better path today.
How to apply Ezekiel 33:16 to your life
This verse encourages us to let go of our past mistakes and focus on making positive choices today. It reminds us that it’s never too late to change our lives for the better. By choosing to act justly and rightly, we can experience true life and fulfillment. Embrace the opportunity for a fresh start!
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 David's story: Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1–13)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. 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.
Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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 33:16
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 33:16
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 33:16 mean?
Ezekiel 33:16 means that when a person repents and turns away from their past sins to do what is right, those previous sins will not be held against them. It emphasizes the idea of forgiveness and the opportunity for a fresh start in life.
What is the meaning of forgiveness in Ezekiel 33:16?
In Ezekiel 33:16, forgiveness means that God does not remember the sins of those who have chosen to live justly and righteously. This highlights the transformative power of repentance and the chance to begin anew.
How does Ezekiel 33:16 relate to personal transformation?
Ezekiel 33:16 relates to personal transformation by showing that individuals can change their lives by making positive choices. It reinforces the idea that past mistakes do not define one's future when one chooses to live rightly.
What themes are present in Ezekiel 33:16?
The themes present in Ezekiel 33:16 include forgiveness, renewal, hope, transformation, justice, and righteousness. These themes highlight the importance of making positive choices and the assurance of a new beginning.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.