Ezekiel 18:16
Neither hath oppressed any, hath not withholden the pledge, neither hath spoiled by violence, but hath given his bread to the hungry, and hath covered the naked with a garment,
Ezekiel 18:16 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse speaks to the importance of living a life of righteousness and compassion towards others. It emphasizes the qualities of fairness, honesty, and generosity. By not oppressing or taking advantage of others, by honoring commitments and pledges, and by refraining from violent and unjust actions, one demonstrates integrity and respect for their fellow human beings. Additionally, by sharing with those in need, such as giving bread to the hungry and clothing to the naked, one shows love and empathy for others in their community. The verse encourages individuals to act with kindness and empathy, treating others with dignity and compassion. In a broader sense, this verse promotes the values of social responsibility, justice, and care for the vulnerable members of society. It serves as a reminder for all believers to live out their faith through acts of kindness and service towards others.
Theological Overview
Looking at the theological interpretation of this verse, we see that it emphasizes the importance of living a righteous and compassionate life. The passage speaks to the actions of a person who has not oppressed others, kept their promises, refrained from using violence, and has shown kindness to those in need. This can be seen as a call to embody the virtues of justice, integrity, and generosity in our interactions with others. By giving bread to the hungry and clothing to the naked, the individual is demonstrating their love and compassion towards their fellow human beings. In a broader theological context, this verse can be seen as a reminder of the importance of living a life that is in accordance with the principles of love, mercy, and justice as outlined in the teachings of various religious traditions.
Ezekiel 18:16 in other translations
American Standard Version
neither hath wronged any, hath not taken aught to pledge, neither hath taken by robbery, but hath given his bread to the hungry, and hath covered the naked with a garment;
World English Bible
neither has wronged any, has not taken anything to pledge, neither has taken by robbery, but has given his bread to the hungry, and has covered the naked with a garment;
Douay-Rheims
And hath not grieved any man, nor withholden the pledge, nor taken away with violence, but hath given his bread to the hungry, and covered the naked with a garment:
Geneva Bible (1599)
Neither hath oppressed any, nor hath withholden the pledge, neither hath spoyled by violence, but hath giuen his bread to the hungry, and hath couered the naked with a garment,