Ezekiel 22:11

One man commits an abomination with his neighbor's wife; another wickedly defiles his daughter-in-law; and yet another violates his sister, his own father's daughter.

Study Bible

One man commits an abomination
The phrase "one man commits an abomination" refers to actions that are detestable and repugnant in the sight of God. The Hebrew word for "abomination" is "תּוֹעֵבָה" (to'evah), which is often used in the Old Testament to describe practices that are morally and ritually offensive, particularly those that violate the covenantal laws given to Israel. This highlights the severity of the sin and the deep offense it causes to God's holiness. In the context of Ezekiel, it underscores the moral decay and spiritual unfaithfulness of the people, calling them to repentance and a return to God's standards.

with his neighbor’s wife
This phrase points to the sin of adultery, which is explicitly condemned in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:14). The act of committing adultery with a neighbor's wife not only breaks the marital covenant but also disrupts the social fabric and trust within the community. In ancient Israel, marriage was a sacred institution, and violating it was seen as an affront to God’s order. The use of "neighbor" emphasizes the betrayal of trust and the communal impact of personal sin.

another defiles his daughter-in-law with indecency
The term "defiles" comes from the Hebrew "טָמֵא" (tame'), meaning to make unclean or impure. This act of defiling a daughter-in-law is a grave violation of familial boundaries and purity laws. The word "indecency" suggests a shameful and dishonorable act, further highlighting the moral corruption present in the society Ezekiel is addressing. Such actions were strictly forbidden in the Levitical laws (Leviticus 18:15), reflecting the importance of maintaining holiness and respect within family relationships.

and another violates his sister, his own father’s daughter
The word "violates" is translated from the Hebrew "עָנָה" (anah), which can mean to oppress or humiliate. This phrase describes an incestuous relationship, which is condemned in Leviticus 18:9. The repetition of "his own father’s daughter" emphasizes the close familial relationship and the egregious nature of the sin. Incest was considered a severe breach of God’s law and an act that brought dishonor and chaos into the family unit, which was meant to reflect God’s order and holiness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, tasked with delivering God's messages of judgment and hope to the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The people of Israel, who are in exile due to their disobedience and idolatry.

3. Jerusalem
The city that is central to the Israelites' identity and worship, facing judgment for its sins.

4. Neighbor’s Wife
Represents the violation of the sanctity of marriage, a covenant relationship.

5. Daughter-in-law and Sister
Illustrate the breakdown of family relationships and moral decay within the community.

Teaching Points

The Sanctity of Marriage
Marriage is a sacred covenant that should be honored and protected. Violating this covenant is an abomination before God.

Family Integrity
The family unit is foundational to society. When family relationships are defiled, it leads to broader societal decay.

Personal Holiness
Believers are called to live lives of holiness, avoiding sexual immorality and upholding God's standards.

Community Accountability
The community of faith must hold each other accountable, addressing sin and encouraging repentance.

Repentance and Restoration
God offers forgiveness and restoration to those who repent and turn away from their sinful ways.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ezekiel 22:11 reflect the moral and spiritual state of Israel at the time?

2. In what ways can the church today guard against the sins mentioned in this verse?

3. How do the sins listed in Ezekiel 22:11 compare to the sexual immorality addressed in 1 Corinthians 5?

4. What steps can individuals take to uphold the sanctity of marriage in their own lives and communities?

5. How can believers support one another in maintaining personal holiness and accountability?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 18
This chapter outlines various sexual sins and abominations, providing a backdrop to the specific sins mentioned in Ezekiel 22:11.

2 Samuel 11
The account of David and Bathsheba highlights the consequences of adultery and the violation of marital vows.

1 Corinthians 5
Paul addresses sexual immorality within the church, emphasizing the need for purity and discipline among believers.