Then said he unto me, Son of man, these are the men that devise mischief, and give wicked counsel in this city:
EZEKIEL 11:2KJVWhat does Ezekiel 11:2 mean?
Ezekiel 11:2 describes how God points out to Ezekiel a group of men in Jerusalem who are plotting evil and giving harmful advice to the people in the city. These men are singled out as responsible for leading others astray through their plans and counsel.
In this scene, God is speaking directly to Ezekiel, calling him "son of man" and identifying certain leaders in Jerusalem as those who "devise mischief" and "give wicked counsel." The verse highlights that the trouble in the city is not random; it is being stirred up by specific people whose influence is corrupting the community.
The Hebrew behind Ezekiel 11:2
- "Devise" (חָשַׁב, chashav) means to plan or plot. In this context, it shows that the men are not just passively allowing evil but are actively scheming it.
- "Mischief" (אָוֶן, aven) often refers to trouble, wickedness, or injustice. The word emphasizes the harmful and unjust nature of their plans.
- "Give" (יָעַץ, ya‘ats) means to advise or counsel. This highlights that their influence comes through their words and guidance, not just their actions.
- "Wicked" (רַע, ra‘) means evil or bad. Paired with "counsel" (עֵצָה, ‘etsah), it stresses that their advice is not just unwise but morally wrong.
Why Ezekiel 11:2 matters
- Ezekiel 11:2 clarifies that the problems in Jerusalem are not just due to outside forces or fate, but are caused by influential leaders making deliberate, harmful choices.
- The verse sets up a contrast between God's guidance and the "wicked counsel" of these men, making it clear that not all advice or leadership is trustworthy.
- This verse helps the reader understand the seriousness of corrupt leadership and the responsibility of those who influence a community's direction.