Ezekiel 22:12

In you they take bribes to shed blood. You engage in usury, take excess interest, and extort your neighbors. But Me you have forgotten, declares the Lord GOD.

Study Bible

In you they take bribes to shed blood
The phrase "In you" refers to the city of Jerusalem and its inhabitants, highlighting the pervasive corruption within the community. The act of taking "bribes to shed blood" indicates a severe moral decay where justice is perverted for personal gain. The Hebrew word for "bribes" (שֹׁחַד, shochad) often implies a gift given to influence judgment, which is strictly condemned in the Mosaic Law (Exodus 23:8). This practice undermines the very foundation of justice and righteousness that God desires for His people.

you take usury and excessive interest
The taking of "usury and excessive interest" refers to the exploitation of the poor and needy through financial means. The Hebrew term for "usury" (נֶשֶׁךְ, neshekh) and "excessive interest" (תַרְבִּית, tarbit) both imply lending money at exorbitant rates, which was prohibited among the Israelites (Leviticus 25:36-37). This practice reflects a lack of compassion and a departure from the communal care that God commanded His people to exhibit.

you make unjust gain from your neighbors by extortion
The phrase "unjust gain" (בֶּצַע, betsa) suggests profit obtained through dishonest or unethical means. "Extortion" (עָשַׁק, ashaq) involves oppressing or exploiting others, often through force or threats. This behavior is a direct violation of the command to love one's neighbor (Leviticus 19:18) and reveals a society that prioritizes wealth over righteousness and community welfare.

And you have forgotten Me
The accusation "you have forgotten Me" is a profound indictment of spiritual amnesia. To "forget" (שָׁכַח, shakach) God is not merely a lapse in memory but a willful neglect of His commandments and presence. This forgetfulness leads to moral and spiritual decay, as the people no longer live in accordance with God's covenantal relationship.

declares the Lord GOD
The phrase "declares the Lord GOD" (נְאֻם אֲדֹנָי יְהוִה, ne'um Adonai Yahweh) emphasizes the authority and sovereignty of God in delivering this judgment. It serves as a reminder that despite the people's unfaithfulness, God remains the ultimate judge and ruler. His declaration is both a warning and a call to repentance, urging the people to return to Him and His ways.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, tasked with delivering God's messages to the Israelites, often focusing on their sins and the need for repentance.

2. Israel
The nation addressed in this passage, specifically the people of Jerusalem, who are being rebuked for their moral and spiritual corruption.

3. The Lord GOD
The sovereign God of Israel, who is declaring judgment against the people for their sins and forgetfulness of Him.

Teaching Points

The Sin of Corruption
The passage highlights the moral decay in society, where justice is perverted through bribery and exploitation. Believers are called to uphold integrity and justice in all dealings.

The Dangers of Forgetting God
Forgetting God leads to moral and spiritual decline. Regular worship, prayer, and study of Scripture are essential to keep God at the center of our lives.

Financial Ethics
The Bible consistently warns against unjust financial practices like usury and extortion. Christians are encouraged to practice fairness and generosity in financial matters.

Consequences of Sin
The passage serves as a reminder that sin has consequences, both individually and collectively. Repentance and turning back to God are necessary to restore righteousness.

God's Sovereignty and Justice
Despite human corruption, God remains sovereign and just. Trust in His ultimate justice and strive to align with His will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the practice of taking bribes and charging excessive interest reflect a society's spiritual state?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we do not "forget" God in our daily lives, as mentioned in Ezekiel 22:12?

3. How can Christians today apply the principles of financial ethics found in this passage to their personal and professional lives?

4. What are some modern examples of the types of corruption described in Ezekiel 22:12, and how can believers respond to them?

5. How does understanding God's justice and sovereignty help us deal with the injustices we see in the world today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 22:25
This verse prohibits charging interest to the poor among the Israelites, highlighting the sin of usury mentioned in Ezekiel 22:12.

Proverbs 17:23
Discusses the wickedness of accepting bribes, which connects to the condemnation of taking bribes to shed blood in Ezekiel 22:12.

Jeremiah 2:32
Speaks of Israel forgetting God, paralleling the accusation in Ezekiel 22:12 of the people having forgotten the Lord.