Ezekiel 9:6 Meaning and Explanation
“Slay utterly old and young, both maids, and little children, and women: but come not near any man upon whom is the mark; and begin at my sanctuary. Then they began at the ancient men which were before the house.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →All without the mark are to be slain without distinction, beginning at the Temple with the elders.
The Context of Ezekiel 9:6
Comprehensive judgment falls on the unmarked; judgment begins at the Temple with the leadership.
What Does Ezekiel 9:6 Mean?
The judgment applies to all levels of Jerusalem's population—old and young, female and male, children and adults. The universality of the slaughter underscores the thoroughness of the corruption; there is no innocent class to spare except those marked by the scribe. The only protection is the seal of fidelity to covenant truth.
The judgment begins at God's sanctuary, where His holiness was most directly violated. The elders, who should have maintained teaching and righteousness, are the first to face judgment. This principle—that judgment begins at the house of God—shows that those closest to God's truth bear the greatest responsibility for corruption.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ezekiel 9:6
What does Ezekiel 9:6 mean?
All without the mark are to be slain without distinction, beginning at the Temple with the elders.
What is the context of Ezekiel 9:6?
Comprehensive judgment falls on the unmarked; judgment begins at the Temple with the leadership.