Ezekiel 33:12 Meaning and Explanation
“Therefore, thou son of man, say unto the children of thy people, The righteousness of the righteous shall not deliver him in the day of his transgression: as for the wickedness of the wicked, he shall not fall thereby in the day that he turneth from his wickedness; neither shall the righteous be able to live for his righteousness in the day that he sinneth.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Past righteousness does not protect someone who later turns to sin; past wickedness does not condemn someone who turns to righteousness.
The Context of Ezekiel 33:12
God establishes that judgment is based on present choice, not past record.
What Does Ezekiel 33:12 Mean?
This verse states a principle of divine judgment based on current standing, not history. A righteous person who commits transgression is not sheltered by their previous righteousness. A wicked person who turns from wickedness is not condemned for their past. God judges based on the person's present choice and condition.
The point cuts both ways. No one can rest on past goodness as insurance against future judgment. But no one is locked into past wickedness—turning is always available. This opens a path of hope for the exiles.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ezekiel 33:12
What does Ezekiel 33:12 mean?
Past righteousness does not protect someone who later turns to sin; past wickedness does not condemn someone who turns to righteousness.
What is the context of Ezekiel 33:12?
God establishes that judgment is based on present choice, not past record.