Ezekiel 36:31

Then shall yee remember your owne euil waies, and your doings that were not good, and shall lothe your selues in your owne sight for your iniquities, and for your abominations. Ezekiel 36:31 (KJV)

The book of Ezekiel is a prophetic work written during the Babylonian exile. In this chapter God announces a future restoration of the land of Israel and its people after a period of disobedience and exile. The verse in question serves as a pivotal moment, calling the Israelites to a deep self‑examination.

The passage begins, “Then shall ye remember your own evil ways, and your doings that were not good.” Here God urges the people to look back honestly at the choices that led to their downfall. This remembrance is not a casual recollection but a sober acknowledgment of sin that caused their captivity.

It continues, “and shall loathe yourselves in your own sight for your iniquities and for your abominations.” The expected response is one of genuine remorse and self‑loathing. By confronting their own wickedness, the Israelites are meant to experience a heartfelt regret that moves them beyond mere intellectual assent to true repentance.

The terms “iniquities” and “abominations” are highlighted for a reason. Iniquities refer to sinful actions, thoughts, and attitudes, while abominations denote the detestable practices such as idolatry and other violations of God’s commandments. Recognizing both the moral and the cultic dimensions of their sin underscores the totality of their rebellion.

For contemporary readers the verse offers timeless instruction. It reminds believers to engage in honest self‑reflection, to identify personal wrongdoing, and to allow that conviction to produce sincere repentance. Such a posture opens the way for God’s forgiveness and the transformative work He intends in the lives of His people.

In summary, Ezekiel 36:31 calls the exiled nation to remember and loathe their sinful actions, fostering genuine repentance that leads to restoration and renewed fellowship with God. The passage thus affirms the enduring principle that true renewal begins with a humbled heart that acknowledges its own failings.