Ezekiel 22:9

Among you are slanderous men bent on bloodshed; within you are those who eat on the mountain shrines and commit acts of indecency.

Study Bible

Among you are slanderous men bent on bloodshed;
This phrase highlights the presence of individuals within the community who engage in slander and are intent on causing harm or even death. In the biblical context, slander is a serious offense, often equated with murder in its potential to destroy reputations and lives (Proverbs 6:16-19). The reference to "bloodshed" indicates a society rife with violence and injustice, reminiscent of the conditions before the Babylonian exile. Historically, this reflects the moral decay in Jerusalem, where leaders and citizens alike were guilty of such sins (Jeremiah 6:6-7). Theologically, this can be seen as a violation of the commandment against bearing false witness (Exodus 20:16) and the sanctity of life (Exodus 20:13).

within you are those who eat on the mountain shrines
Eating on mountain shrines refers to participating in pagan worship practices, which often included ritual meals. These high places were sites of idolatry, where Israelites would engage in worship contrary to the commands given in Deuteronomy 12:2-4. This practice was a direct violation of the covenant relationship with Yahweh, who demanded exclusive worship (Exodus 34:14). Archaeological findings have uncovered remnants of such shrines, confirming their widespread use in ancient Israel. This behavior signifies a spiritual adultery, drawing parallels to the unfaithfulness condemned by prophets like Hosea (Hosea 4:13).

and commit acts of indecency.
Acts of indecency likely refer to sexual immorality, which was often associated with idol worship in ancient Near Eastern cultures. Such acts were not only personal sins but also communal, as they defiled the land and the people (Leviticus 18:24-30). The prophets frequently condemned these practices, linking them to the broader theme of Israel's unfaithfulness to God (Jeremiah 3:1-3). In a typological sense, these acts contrast with the purity and holiness embodied by Jesus Christ, who calls His followers to live lives of righteousness and integrity (1 Peter 1:15-16).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Men Who Slander
These individuals are characterized by their malicious speech, which is intended to harm others, even to the point of causing death. The Hebrew word for "slander" here is (rakil), which implies a talebearer or someone who spreads false reports.

2. Mountain Shrines
These were high places where idolatrous worship occurred. The Israelites often fell into the sin of worshiping false gods at these sites, which was strictly forbidden by God.

3. Lewd Acts
This refers to immoral and indecent behavior, often associated with the idolatrous practices at the mountain shrines. The Hebrew word (zimmah) can denote wickedness or depravity.

4. Ezekiel
The prophet who delivered God's message of judgment and call to repentance to the people of Israel. He was a priest and a prophet during the Babylonian exile.

5. Israel
The nation to whom Ezekiel was prophesying. At this time, they were in a state of moral and spiritual decline, leading to God's judgment.

Teaching Points

The Power of Words
Slander is not a trivial sin; it can lead to severe consequences, including the destruction of lives and relationships. We must guard our tongues and speak truthfully.

Idolatry's Deception
Worshiping anything other than God leads to moral decay. We must examine our lives for modern-day idols that draw us away from true worship.

Moral Integrity
God calls His people to live with integrity, avoiding lewd and immoral behavior. Our actions should reflect our faith and commitment to God's standards.

Repentance and Restoration
Like Israel, we are called to recognize our sins, repent, and seek God's forgiveness. He is faithful to restore those who turn back to Him.

Community Accountability
As believers, we are responsible for holding each other accountable, encouraging one another to live according to God's Word.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the sin of slander manifest in today's society, and what steps can we take to avoid participating in it?

2. In what ways might modern Christians be tempted to engage in idolatry, and how can we guard against it?

3. How can we ensure that our actions align with our faith, especially in a culture that often promotes lewd behavior?

4. What role does repentance play in restoring our relationship with God, and how can we practice it regularly?

5. How can we create a community of accountability within our church or small group to help each other live according to biblical principles?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 19:16
This verse warns against being a talebearer among the people, highlighting the destructive nature of slander.

Jeremiah 7:9-10
These verses describe the hypocrisy of the Israelites who commit sins like idolatry and then come to the temple, thinking they are safe.

Proverbs 6:16-19
This passage lists things the Lord hates, including a lying tongue and a false witness, which relate to the slander mentioned in Ezekiel 22:9.

Romans 1:29-32
Paul describes a society given over to sin, including slander and other wicked acts, similar to the conditions in Ezekiel's time.