Ezekiel 22:13 (KJV)

What does Ezekiel 22:13 mean?

Ezekiel 22:13 describes God expressing anger at Jerusalem for gaining wealth through dishonest means and for the bloodshed that has happened among its people. God says He has struck His hand in response to these injustices, showing strong disapproval and signaling coming judgment.

In this verse, the prophet Ezekiel is speaking God's words to the people of Jerusalem, who have been accused of corruption and violence. The image of God smiting His hand is a vivid way of showing His frustration and warning that their actions have serious consequences. This verse comes in the middle of a larger passage where God lists the sins of Jerusalem and announces that punishment is coming because of them.

The Hebrew behind Ezekiel 22:13

• "smitten" (נָכָה, nakah): This word often means to strike or hit forcefully. Here, it paints a picture of God clapping or striking His hand as a sign of anger or warning, not just a mild gesture.
• "hand" (כַּף, kaph): The use of "hand" here refers to a physical gesture, emphasizing the seriousness and emotional weight of God's reaction.
• "gain" (בֶּצַע, betsa): This word means profit or gain, especially through unjust or greedy means. It highlights that the wealth in question was not earned honestly.
• "blood" (דָּם, dam): This word refers to literal blood, pointing to violence or murder that has taken place within the city.
• "midst" (תָּוֶךְ, tavek): This word means "in the middle of" or "among," stressing that these wrongdoings are happening right within the community, not hidden or far away.

Why Ezekiel 22:13 matters

• Ezekiel 22:13 makes it clear that God is not indifferent to injustice or violence, but responds emotionally and decisively.
• The verse connects the people's dishonest gain directly to the violence in their society, showing that corruption and bloodshed are linked problems.
• This verse helps set the stage for the rest of Ezekiel 22, where God explains the consequences of these sins and why judgment is necessary.