Ezekiel 11:21 in the King James Version of the Bible reads, "But as for them whose heart walketh after the heart of their detestable things and their abominations, I will recompense their way upon their own heads, saith the Lord God."

This verse is part of a larger passage in the book of Ezekiel, which is a prophetic book in the Old Testament. The prophet Ezekiel lived during the time of the Babylonian exile of the Israelites, and he was called by God to bring a message of warning and hope to the people of Israel. The overall theme of the book of Ezekiel is the judgment of God on the nation of Israel for their disobedience and unfaithfulness, as well as the promise of restoration and a new covenant.

In Ezekiel 11:21, we see a direct warning from God to those who continue to follow after their detestable things and abominations. This verse speaks to the consequences of idolatry and wickedness, and it emphasizes the principle of recompense or "you reap what you sow". This passage serves as a reminder that God is just and will not tolerate sinful behavior indefinitely. Those who persist in their wrongdoing will face the consequences of their actions.

The theme of judgment and recompense is a dominant motif throughout the book of Ezekiel. The prophet repeatedly declares the coming judgment of God on the people of Israel for their idolatry, violence, and unfaithfulness. However, Ezekiel also conveys a message of hope, as he prophesies the ultimate restoration of the nation of Israel and the establishment of a new covenant with God.

The context of Ezekiel 11:21 is within a larger section of the book in which the prophet is given a vision of the glory of the Lord departing from the temple in Jerusalem. This vision symbolizes the departure of God's presence from the midst of the people of Israel due to their sin and rebellion. The departure of God's glory is a powerful and sobering image of the consequences of disobedience and unfaithfulness.

The symbolism in this verse is profound. The "detestable things and abominations" refer to the idolatrous practices and sinful behavior of the Israelites, which had led to their spiritual and moral corruption. The "way that will be recompensed upon their own heads" speaks to the inevitable consequences of their actions. This imagery conveys the principle of accountability before God and the inescapable judgment that awaits those who persist in wickedness.

Ultimately, Ezekiel 11:21 serves as a stark warning about the destructive nature of sin and the righteousness of God's judgment. It calls for a radical reorientation of the heart and mind towards God and away from idolatry and wickedness. It also points to the hope of restoration and renewal through repentance and a new covenant with God.

In conclusion, Ezekiel 11:21 is a powerful and sobering reminder of the consequences of unfaithfulness and disobedience before a holy and just God. It emphasizes the principle of recompense and invites the reader to consider the state of their own heart and the direction of their own lives. This verse, like the entire book of Ezekiel, challenges us to live in obedience to God and to seek His mercy and forgiveness.