Old Testament
Ezekiel 5:10
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, a shocking image is presented to illustrate the severity of the consequences of the people's actions.
- Author
- Ezekiel the prophet
- Written
- Around 590 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Therefore, fathers will eat their sons among you, and sons will eat their fathers. I will execute judgments on you, and I will scatter your entire remnant to all the winds.
Therefore the fathers shall eat the sons in the midst of thee, and the sons shall eat their fathers; and I will execute judgments in thee, and the whole remnant of thee will I scatter into all the winds.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a shocking image is presented to illustrate the severity of the consequences of the people's actions. It suggests a time of extreme desperation and breakdown of family bonds, where parents and children turn against each other. This reflects the dire situation that will arise due to the people's disobedience and the resulting judgment. The phrase 'I will execute judgments on you' indicates that these events are not random but are a direct result of their choices. The scattering of the remnant symbolizes a complete loss of community and identity, as they will be dispersed and vulnerable. This serves as a warning about the consequences of straying from the right path. The imagery is meant to provoke a strong emotional response, highlighting the gravity of their situation and the need for repentance. It emphasizes that actions have consequences, and the breakdown of relationships can lead to devastating outcomes. Ultimately, it calls for reflection on how one's choices can impact not just oneself but also those closest to them.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Ezekiel 5:10 to your life
This verse challenges us to consider the impact of our choices on our relationships. It reminds us that neglecting our responsibilities can lead to dire consequences. We should strive to maintain strong bonds with our loved ones and make choices that reflect care and responsibility. Reflect on how your actions affect those around you and seek to build rather than destroy relationships. Take time to nurture connections with family and friends.
Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ezekiel 5:10 mean about fathers eating their sons?
Ezekiel 5:10 uses shocking imagery to illustrate the extreme consequences of disobedience to God. The phrase about fathers eating their sons symbolizes a breakdown of family bonds and the desperation that can arise in times of judgment. It reflects a situation where relationships are so strained that individuals turn against each other, highlighting the severity of the people's actions and the resulting divine judgment.
How does Ezekiel 5:10 relate to the theme of judgment?
In Ezekiel 5:10, the theme of judgment is central as it emphasizes that the dire consequences faced by the people are a direct result of their disobedience. God declares that He will execute judgments on them, indicating that their suffering is not random but a consequence of their choices. This serves as a warning about the seriousness of straying from God's commands and the inevitable repercussions that follow.
What can we learn about family relationships from Ezekiel 5:10?
Ezekiel 5:10 serves as a stark reminder of how neglecting our responsibilities and straying from moral paths can lead to the breakdown of family relationships. It challenges us to reflect on how our actions impact those we love. The verse encourages us to nurture our connections and make choices that promote unity and care, rather than allowing desperation and conflict to arise.
Why does God scatter the remnant in Ezekiel 5:10?
The scattering of the remnant in Ezekiel 5:10 symbolizes the complete loss of community and identity as a consequence of the people's disobedience. It signifies that those who remain will be vulnerable and dispersed, reflecting the judgment they face. This act serves to illustrate the severity of their situation and the need for repentance, emphasizing that turning away from God leads to isolation and suffering.

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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