Ezekiel 14:15

“Though these three men, Noah, Daniel, and Job, were in it, they should deliver but their own souls by their righteousness, saith the Lord God.”

Ezekiel 14:15 is a part of a larger passage in the book of Ezekiel where God is speaking to the prophet Ezekiel and addressing the idolatry and wickedness of the Israelites. In this particular verse, God is making a statement about the judgment and righteousness of individuals.

The verse mentions three notable figures: Noah, Daniel, and Job. These individuals are well-known in the biblical narrative for their righteousness and devotion to God.

Noah:Noah was chosen by God to build the ark and preserve life during the great flood. Genesis 6:9 describes Noah as a righteous man who walked with God.

Daniel:Daniel was a prophet and advisor in the Babylonian and Persian empires. He was known for his wisdom, faithfulness, and his refusal to compromise his beliefs. Despite facing challenges and persecution, Daniel remained devoted to God.

Job:Job was a man who faced immense suffering and loss but remained faithful to God. He endured various trials and tests, yet he did not curse God. Instead, he maintained his integrity and trust in God’s sovereignty.

The verse emphasizes that even if these three righteous individuals were present in a time of divine judgment, they would only be able to save themselves through their own righteousness. This implies that their righteousness would not be enough to save the entire nation or others from judgment.

The passage as a whole warns the people of Israel that their idolatry and wickedness will lead to severe consequences. It emphasizes the importance of personal righteousness and accountability before God. Each person is responsible for their own actions and their relationship with God, and the righteousness of others cannot substitute for one’s personal commitment to God.