Generation to generation

“In summary, in the first set of three scenarios ([Ezekiel 18] vv. 5–18) the divine answer undermines the principle of wickedness or righteousness being carried from generation to generation and with this prohibits a current generation from blaming a former generation for its behavior or predicament. Each generation stands on its own. In the two additional scenarios (vv. 21–24), the divine answer focuses in on the opportunity even within a generation for repentance to change its consequences, the implication being that, for those who have begun as either the 'wicked' generation (vv. 10–13) or the 'righteous' generation (vv. 5–9, 14–18), there is the possibility of a 'repentance' for good or ill that will change its consequences of death or life.”—A Severe Mercy, page 278

<idle musing>
Debbie and I were just talking about this the other day. Ezekiel seems to waffle on this. But, perhaps it is a case of strong tendencies, with an opportunity for repentance? It is certainly true that certain sinful habits seem to run in families for generations. It is also true that not everyone in those families falls prey to them, which lines up with Boda's observation here.
</idle musing>