Ezekiel 18:16

Neither hath oppressed any, hath not withholden the pledge, neither hath spoiled by violence, but hath giuen his bread to the hungry, and hath couered the naked with a garment, Ezekiel 18:16 (KJV)

Ezekiel 18:16 belongs to a larger passage in the book of Ezekiel where the prophet addresses personal responsibility and accountability before God. In this verse the prophet paints a portrait of a righteous individual whose conduct is marked by justice, integrity, and compassion toward others.

The verse states that the person “hath not oppressed any,” indicating fair treatment of others and a refusal to exploit or harm them. It further declares that the individual “hath not withholden the pledge,” meaning that he honors his commitments and keeps his word. The phrase “neither hath spoiled by violence” underscores a life free from force, coercion, or unjust aggression. In addition to refraining from wrongdoing, the righteous person actively cares for the needy: he “hath given his bread to the hungry” and “hath covered the naked with a garment,” demonstrating generosity and concern for basic human needs.

A related portion of the same chapter, Ezekiel 18:7‑8, also highlights righteousness through justice, honesty, and obedience to God’s statutes, but it does not mention the specific acts of giving bread or clothing the naked. Those particular themes are found elsewhere in Scripture, such as Psalm 112:9, which speaks of feeding the poor and clothing the naked.

Together these passages encourage believers to embody virtues of fairness, fidelity to promises, non‑violence, and active compassion. By cultivating these qualities, Christians reflect the character of true righteousness and fulfill the biblical call to personal responsibility and kindness in daily life.