Old Testament
Habakkuk 2:10
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"By wiping out many peoples, you've brought shame on your own household and sinned against your own soul."
Compare translations
Thou hast consulted shame to thy house by cutting off many people, and hast sinned against thy soul.
What Habakkuk 2:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the prophet Habakkuk addresses the consequences of violence and oppression. The act of destroying many people for personal gain brings shame not only to the oppressor's household but also harms their own soul. This highlights the moral and spiritual repercussions of unjust actions. The verse serves as a warning that seeking power through the suffering of others ultimately leads to self-destruction and dishonor. It emphasizes that one's actions have a direct impact on their integrity and spiritual well-being. The shame brought upon one's household reflects the interconnectedness of community and personal responsibility. Therefore, those who commit acts of injustice should reflect on the broader implications of their choices, as they not only affect others but also tarnish their own legacy and relationship with God.
How to apply Habakkuk 2:10 to your life
This verse encourages us to consider the impact of our actions on others and ourselves. In our pursuit of success or power, we must avoid harming others. Instead, we should strive for justice and compassion, ensuring our choices reflect our values and contribute positively to our community.
Curated for this public verse page. Habakkuk 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 Moses's story: Israel Enslaved in Egypt (Exodus 1:8–22)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Moses

Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. 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.
Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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 Habakkuk 2:10
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 Habakkuk 2:10
Related Bible verses
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Habakkuk
- Author
- Habakkuk the prophet
- Written
- Around 610 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- The kingdom of Judah
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Habakkuk 2:10 mean?
Habakkuk 2:10 highlights the consequences of violence and oppression, stating that harming others for personal gain brings shame to the oppressor's household and damages their own soul.
What is the meaning of shame in Habakkuk 2:10?
In Habakkuk 2:10, shame refers to the dishonor and disgrace that comes from unjust actions, emphasizing that those who harm others ultimately harm themselves and their legacy.
How does Habakkuk 2:10 relate to personal responsibility?
Habakkuk 2:10 underscores personal responsibility by showing that one's actions affect not only others but also one's own integrity and spiritual well-being.
What themes are present in Habakkuk 2:10?
Key themes in Habakkuk 2:10 include the consequences of violence, the importance of personal responsibility, the impact of moral choices on community, and the relationship between shame and honor.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.