Old Testament
Ezekiel 7:22
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 expresses a deep sense of disappointment and separation from His people.
- Author
- Ezekiel the prophet
- Written
- Around 590 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
I will turn my face away from them, and they will pollute my secret place. Robbers will enter and defile it.
My face will I turn also from them, and they shall pollute my secret place: for the robbers shall enter into it, and defile it.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God expresses a deep sense of disappointment and separation from His people. When He turns His face away, it signifies a withdrawal of His protection and favor. The 'secret place' represents a sacred space where God’s presence dwells. By polluting this space, the people are disrespecting what is holy. The mention of robbers entering and defiling it highlights the seriousness of their actions. It shows that when we stray from what is right, we invite chaos and destruction into our lives. This verse serves as a warning about the consequences of turning away from God and the importance of maintaining purity in our lives. It reminds us that our choices can lead to a loss of connection with the divine and can allow negativity to invade our hearts and communities. Ultimately, it calls us to reflect on how we treat the sacred aspects of our lives and the importance of honoring them with respect and care. God desires a relationship with us, and we must strive to keep that connection strong.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Ezekiel 7:22 to your life
To apply this message, reflect on areas in your life where you may be neglecting what is sacred. Consider how your actions might be polluting your personal space or relationships. Strive to honor the things that matter most and seek to restore any lost connections with what is holy in your life. Make conscious choices that reflect respect and care for your values and beliefs. This can lead to a more fulfilling and peaceful life.
Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What is the 'secret place' mentioned in Ezekiel 7:22?
The 'secret place' refers to a sacred space where God's presence dwells. It symbolizes the holiness and sanctity of God's relationship with His people. Polluting this space indicates a disrespect for what is sacred, highlighting the seriousness of straying from God's ways and the consequences that follow.
How can we avoid polluting our sacred spaces?
To avoid polluting your sacred spaces, reflect on your values and the things you hold dear. Make conscious choices that honor your beliefs and relationships. This may involve setting boundaries, engaging in positive practices, and being mindful of your actions and their impact on your spiritual life. Strive to maintain purity and respect in all areas of your life.
What are the consequences of disrespecting what is holy?
Disrespecting what is holy can lead to chaos and destruction in your life. It invites negativity and can sever your connection with God. The verse warns that neglecting sacred aspects can result in a loss of divine favor and protection, highlighting the importance of honoring and maintaining purity in your spiritual journey.
How does Ezekiel 7:22 relate to personal relationships?
Ezekiel 7:22 can be applied to personal relationships by emphasizing the importance of respecting and nurturing the sacred bonds we share with others. Just as polluting God's secret place leads to consequences, neglecting the sacredness of our relationships can invite conflict and disconnection. Strive to honor and care for your relationships to maintain harmony and closeness.

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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