Ezekiel 22:11

And one hath committed abomination with his neighbour’s wife; and another hath lewdly defiled his daughter in law; and another in thee hath humbled his sister, his father’s daughter.

Ezekiel 22:11 (KJV)

Context

Ezekiel 22 records God’s indictment against Jerusalem through the prophet Ezekiel. The chapter catalogs the city’s sins, showing that corruption had spread through every level of society, including princes and nobles. This verse names three specific sexual offenses that were among the reasons for God’s judgment and the coming destruction of the city.

Meaning

The first offense, “one hath committed abomination with his neighbour’s wife,” is adultery. It violates the marriage covenant and betrays the trust between neighbors. The word “abomination” marks it as a serious violation of God’s law, not merely a private failing.

The second offense, “another hath lewdly defiled his daughter in law,” is incest. Such a relationship defiles the family bond and breaks the boundaries God established for sexual intimacy. The phrase “lewdly defiled” stresses both the shamefulness and the corrupting effect of the act.

The third offense, “another in thee hath humbled his sister, his father’s daughter,” refers to incest with a half-sister. The wording “humbled” points to the abuse of power and the violation of a vulnerable family member. Together, these acts show a complete disregard for God’s design for marriage and family.

These sins echo the prohibitions in Leviticus 18:9, 15, 20, where God explicitly forbids such relationships. The people of Jerusalem had abandoned these commands, and their society suffered the consequences. The breakdown of family trust and moral order was not hidden from God; it was among the charges that brought judgment.

Application

• Fidelity and respect in marriage: Adultery damages relationships and dishonors God’s plan for marriage. Believers are called to remain faithful, guarding the covenant bond with commitment and trust.

• Upholding family values: Incest is a grave offense against the sacredness of family. Healthy boundaries protect family members and honor God’s design for relationships.

• Consequences of sin: These sins contributed to Jerusalem’s judgment. Sin has real consequences, and God’s righteousness will not overlook persistent rebellion. This calls for repentance and a return to His standards.

This verse is a sober reminder that sexual sin is not only personal but also communal, eroding the foundations of family and society. The pervasiveness of such offenses among the people shows how deeply moral decay had taken root. Yet the gospel offers hope: in Christ, there is forgiveness and cleansing for those who repent. The call is to live in holiness, reflecting the new nature given by the Spirit and honoring God in every relationship.