Old Testament
Ezekiel 9:5
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, God commands a group to go through the city and carry out judgment.
- Author
- Ezekiel the prophet
- Written
- Around 590 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Then to the others, he said within my hearing, "Follow him through the city and strike. Show no mercy and have no pity.
And to the others he said in mine hearing, Go ye after him through the city, and smite: let not your eye spare, neither have ye pity:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, God commands a group to go through the city and carry out judgment. The instruction is clear: they are to strike down those who do not follow God's ways, showing no mercy or pity. This reflects the seriousness of the situation and the consequences of turning away from righteousness. The imagery is stark, emphasizing the urgency and gravity of the message. It serves as a reminder that actions have consequences, and there is a time for accountability. The call to follow through the city symbolizes a thorough examination of the people’s hearts and actions. This moment highlights the importance of being vigilant about our choices and the impact they have on our lives and communities. It challenges us to reflect on our own lives and consider where we stand in relation to what is right and just. Ultimately, it is a call to take responsibility for our actions and to seek a path that aligns with goodness and truth, rather than one that leads to destruction.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Ezekiel 9:5 to your life
This passage encourages us to examine our own lives and the choices we make. It reminds us that our actions matter and can have significant consequences. We should strive to live in a way that reflects goodness and justice, being mindful of how we treat others. Let’s choose compassion and righteousness in our daily interactions, avoiding paths that lead to harm or destruction. Reflect on your values and ensure they align with a positive impact
Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ezekiel 9:5 mean?
Ezekiel 9:5 describes God's command to execute judgment on those in the city who do not follow His ways. It emphasizes the seriousness of accountability and the consequences of turning away from righteousness.
What is the significance of 'strike' in Ezekiel 9:5?
The term 'strike' in Ezekiel 9:5 signifies a decisive action taken against those who are unfaithful to God. It illustrates the urgency of divine judgment and the need for a thorough examination of people's hearts and actions.
What does 'show no mercy' imply in Ezekiel 9:5?
'Show no mercy' in Ezekiel 9:5 implies that there will be no leniency for those who have turned away from God's commands. It highlights the gravity of the situation and the importance of accountability for one's actions.
What is the context of Ezekiel 9:5?
Ezekiel 9:5 occurs in a vision where God instructs agents of judgment to cleanse the city of those who do not adhere to His ways. It reflects a moment of divine reckoning and the consequences of moral failure.
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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