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Ezekiel 18:15

That hath not eaten upon the mountains, neither hath lifted up his eyes to the idols of the house of Israel, hath not defiled his neighbour's wife,

Ezekiel 18:15 · King James Version

Meaning

The verse describes the characteristics of a righteous person. In this context, the individual is commended for not participating in pagan rituals, specifically the act of eating sacrificial food on the mountains, which was a common practice among the Israelites during that time. By abstaining from such activities, the person demonstrates his loyalty to the one true God and avoids falling into idolatry. Additionally, the verse emphasizes the importance of marital fidelity by highlighting the individual's commitment to not defiling his neighbor's wife. This serves as a reminder of the sanctity of marriage and the moral responsibility to uphold the sanctity of the marital union. By refraining from engaging in immoral behaviors and adhering to God's commandments, the individual showcases a life of righteousness and obedience to God's laws.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the reference to eating upon the mountains could potentially allude to the pagan rituals that were common in ancient Israel, where sacrifices were made to false gods on high places. This practice was strictly prohibited by God in the Old Testament. The mention of lifting up one's eyes to idols emphasizes the act of worshiping false gods, which was a prevalent issue among the Israelites. The command against defiling one's neighbor's wife reflects God's desire for purity and faithfulness in relationships. This verse highlights the importance of keeping oneself separate from idolatry and immorality, showing obedience to God's commands. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the significance of worshiping the one true God and living in accordance with His laws, rather than following the ways of the world.

Ezekiel 18:15 in other translations

American Standard Version

that hath not eaten upon the mountains, neither hath lifted up his eyes to the idols of the house of Israel, hath not defiled his neighbor's wife,

World English Bible

who has not eaten on the mountains, neither has lifted up his eyes to the idols of the house of Israel, has not defiled his neighbor’s wife,

Douay-Rheims

That hath not eaten upon the mountains, nor lifted up his eyes to the idols of the house of Israel, and hath not defiled his neighbour's wife:

Geneva Bible (1599)

That hath not eaten vpon the mountaines, neither hath lift vp his eyes to the idols of ye house of Israel, nor hath defiled his neighbours wife,