Ezekiel 22:27 Meaning and Explanation
“Her princes in the midst thereof are like wolves ravening the prey, to shed blood, and to destroy souls, to get dishonest gain.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Jerusalem's rulers are like predatory wolves, shedding blood and destroying lives for profit.
The Context of Ezekiel 22:27
Rulers prey on the people like wolves.
What Does Ezekiel 22:27 Mean?
The princes—Jerusalem's political and military leaders—are compared to wolves tearing apart prey. Their purpose is explicit: to shed blood, destroy souls, and amass dishonest wealth. These are not leaders protecting their people but predators feeding off them.
The use of the wolf metaphor parallels the earlier comparison of false prophets to a roaring lion. Both images convey that those who should lead and protect are instead devouring the community. The combination of princely and prophetic corruption leaves the people without any trustworthy guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ezekiel 22:27
What does Ezekiel 22:27 mean?
Jerusalem's rulers are like predatory wolves, shedding blood and destroying lives for profit.
What is the context of Ezekiel 22:27?
Rulers prey on the people like wolves.