Book of Ezekiel - Chapter 9 - Verse 6

The verse '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.' can be found in the book of Ezekiel. This passage describes a judgment that God has decreed upon the people of Jerusalem for their sinful ways. God commands those who are carrying out the judgment to spare anyone who has a mark on them, indicating that they are righteous and faithful. However, everyone else, regardless of age or gender, is to be killed. This harsh judgment serves as a warning to the people of Jerusalem that their actions have consequences and that God will hold them accountable for their sins. It also serves as a reminder of God's power and authority over all people, as he is the ultimate judge and dispenser of justice.

One theological interpretation of this verse highlights the concept of divine judgment. The command to slay completely without showing mercy to anyone, regardless of age or gender, demonstrates the severe consequences of disobedience to God's commands. However, the mention of sparing those marked by God signifies His protection over the righteous and faithful followers. The directive to begin at the sanctuary symbolizes the judgment starting from the place where God's presence is most evident, emphasizing the accountability of those who have received divine revelation and yet turned away from it. The mention of targeting the elderly before the house could signify that judgment would start with the leaders or those who should have been wise but have strayed from the path. This verse serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of straying from God's ways and the importance of remaining faithful to His commands.