Ezekiel 17:19 Meaning and Explanation
“Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; As I live, surely mine oath that he hath despised, and my covenant that he hath broken, even it will I recompense upon his own head.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God swears by his own life that he will hold Zedekiah accountable on his own head for despising the oath and breaking covenant.
The Context of Ezekiel 17:19
God's personal involvement in executing judgment for the oath-breaking.
What Does Ezekiel 17:19 Mean?
God enters the narrative directly as the ultimate judge. The oath-formula 'As I live' now comes from God himself, not merely predicting but declaring divine intervention. God took oaths seriously in biblical thought—they represent his character and truthfulness. When Zedekiah despised an oath, he ultimately despised God's witness.
'Upon his own head' means Zedekiah bears full personal responsibility for the consequences. God will 'recompense'—repay, retaliate—for the broken covenant. This is not arbitrary punishment but proportional justice: Zedekiah chose to break covenant, so covenant-breaking's consequences will fall upon him.
Ezekiel 17:19 in the Original Language
neder (נדר), 'oath,' emphasizes a vow or solemn promise whose violation has cosmic weight in God's sight.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ezekiel 17:19
What does Ezekiel 17:19 mean?
God swears by his own life that he will hold Zedekiah accountable on his own head for despising the oath and breaking covenant.
What is the context of Ezekiel 17:19?
God's personal involvement in executing judgment for the oath-breaking.