Old Testament
Ezekiel 7:21
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, God is declaring a serious consequence for the people who have turned away from Him.
- Author
- Ezekiel the prophet
- Written
- Around 590 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
I will hand it over to foreigners as plunder and to the most wicked people on earth as loot, and they will defile it.
And I will give it into the hands of the strangers for a prey, and to the wicked of the earth for a spoil; and they shall pollute it.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is declaring a serious consequence for the people who have turned away from Him. He will allow their possessions and sacred places to be taken by outsiders, who will treat them with disrespect. This act symbolizes a loss of protection and honor, as the most corrupt individuals will take what is valuable and tarnish it. The imagery of plunder and pollution highlights the severity of the situation. It serves as a warning about the consequences of straying from faith and the importance of maintaining integrity. When we disregard what is sacred, we risk losing it to those who do not value it. This message resonates today, reminding us to cherish and protect what is meaningful in our lives. We must be vigilant against influences that seek to undermine our values and beliefs, ensuring that we remain true to what we hold dear. Ultimately, this verse calls us to reflect on our choices and their impact on our lives and communities, urging us to stay committed to our principles.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Ezekiel 7:21 to your life
Consider what you value most in your life and how you protect it. Are there influences that threaten to tarnish your beliefs or integrity? Take time to reflect on your choices and ensure they align with your values. Stay committed to what truly matters to you and your community. This vigilance can help you maintain your sense of purpose and direction in life.
Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ezekiel 7:21 mean?
Ezekiel 7:21 conveys God's warning that He will allow the possessions and sacred places of His people to be taken by outsiders. This reflects the consequences of turning away from Him, symbolizing a loss of protection and respect.
What is the significance of 'plunder' in Ezekiel 7:21?
The term 'plunder' in Ezekiel 7:21 signifies the taking of valuable possessions by those who do not honor them. It illustrates the severity of the consequences faced by a people who have strayed from their faith.
What does 'pollute' mean in Ezekiel 7:21?
In Ezekiel 7:21, 'pollute' refers to the act of desecrating or disrespecting what is sacred. It highlights the degradation that occurs when valuable things are taken by corrupt individuals.
How can I apply Ezekiel 7:21 to my life?
To apply Ezekiel 7:21, reflect on what you value and consider how you protect those values from negative influences. Staying committed to your principles can help you maintain integrity and purpose in your life.

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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