Ezekiel 20:4 Meaning and Explanation
“Wilt thou judge them, son of man, wilt thou judge them? cause them to know the abominations of their fathers:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Ezekiel is called to confront Israel with the sins of their ancestors.
The Context of Ezekiel 20:4
Ezekiel is commissioned to reveal Israel's history of rebellion to the current generation.
What Does Ezekiel 20:4 Mean?
The repetition 'wilt thou judge them' emphasizes the urgency and importance of this task. God is asking Ezekiel to function as both a witness and a mirror, reflecting back Israel's true spiritual condition. 'Judge' here means to make clear or manifest, not to condemn—to help them see what they have become.
The reference to 'abominations of their fathers' indicates that Israel's current rebellion is not new but rooted in generational patterns. Ezekiel is to trace how each generation continued the idolatry of the previous one. Only by seeing this pattern can they understand the gravity of their present state.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ezekiel 20:4
What does Ezekiel 20:4 mean?
Ezekiel is called to confront Israel with the sins of their ancestors.
What is the context of Ezekiel 20:4?
Ezekiel is commissioned to reveal Israel's history of rebellion to the current generation.