Yechezkal Chapter 22: The Indictment and Refining of a Corrupt Nation
- The Accusation Against the “City of Bloodshed” (vv. 1–5)
G-d commands Ezekiel to confront Jerusalem for its violence, idolatry, and the shedding of innocent blood. Because of these sins, the city has become a disgrace and a subject of scorn among surrounding nations.
- Widespread Moral Collapse Among All Groups (vv. 6–12)
Every layer of society is implicated—princes, families, strangers, orphans, widows, and ordinary citizens. Violations include disrespect for parents, oppression of the vulnerable, profaning holy things, sexual immorality, bribery, extortion, and general dishonesty. G-d declares that the people have forgotten Him.
- G-d’s Coming Judgment (vv. 13–16)
G-d responds to their corruption with decisive judgment. The people will lose their strength and courage as they are scattered among the nations, where their shame will be exposed. Through this, they will finally know that G-d is the Lord.
- Israel as Impure Metal in the Furnace (vv. 17–22)
G-d compares Israel to dross—impure metal needing to be melted down. Through the fire of judgment, G-d will gather and refine the people like metal in a furnace. Their suffering will reveal G-d’s anger and justice.
- Corruption of Prophets, Priests, Princes, and People (vv. 23–29)
A sweeping denunciation of leaders and citizens alike:
- Prophets act like predators, exploiting the people.
- Priests violate sacred law and erase distinctions between holy and profane.
- Princes behave like wolves seeking dishonest gain.
- Prophets further mislead by falsely claiming divine authority.
- The population practices oppression, robbery, and injustice toward the poor and the stranger.
- No One to Stand in the Breach (v. 30)
G-d sought even a single righteous person who would intercede for the land and repair the “breach,” but none could be found.
- Final Decision of Judgment (v. 31)
Because no one stood for righteousness, G-d pours out wrath on the nation, letting the consequences of
