Ezekiel 22:7 - In you have they treated father and mother with contempt. Among you they have oppressed the foreigner. In you they have wronged the fatherless and the widow.

Generated Verse: Ezekiel 22:7

What does "Ezekiel 22:7" mean?


Ezekiel 22:7 is a scathing indictment of the corruption and moral decay prevalent in Jerusalem. It specifically calls out several heinous acts of injustice and disregard for basic human decency:

"In you have they treated father and mother with contempt." This points to a breakdown of family values and a lack of respect for elders. Disobeying and disrespecting parents was a serious violation of God's law and social norms in ancient Israel. It signified a collapse of the moral foundation of society.

"Among you they have oppressed the foreigner." God repeatedly commanded the Israelites to treat foreigners with kindness and justice. Oppressing them was a direct violation of God's commands and a display of xenophobia and greed. Foreigners were often vulnerable and reliant on the goodwill of the community.

"In you they have wronged the fatherless and the widow." These two groups were considered especially vulnerable in ancient society. They lacked the protection and support that a husband or father would provide. Exploiting them was a particularly egregious sin, indicating a lack of compassion and a willingness to prey on the weak.

In essence, this verse highlights a society where fundamental moral principles have been abandoned. There is a lack of respect for elders, cruelty towards vulnerable populations (foreigners, orphans, and widows), and a general disregard for God's laws concerning justice and compassion. This is a key reason for the judgment that Ezekiel prophesies will come upon Jerusalem.