Ezekiel 23:4

"They played the prostitute in Egypt. They played the prostitute in their youth. Their breasts were fondled there, and their youthful nipples were caressed there."

Key Reflection

In Ezekiel 23:4, the prophet describes Israel's historical infidelity to God using a vivid metaphor of sexual immorality, comparing the nation to a woman who engaged in prostitution during her youth and in Egypt. This imagery highlights not only the physical acts of debauchery but also suggests a deep spiritual betrayal, as it portrays the people’s spiritual fidelity being compromised in foreign lands where they were exposed to pagan worship and practices.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Aholah ... and Aholibah -More correctly “Oholah” (“her own tent or tabernacle”) and “Oholibah” (“My tent or tabernacle is in her”): names chosen to express that after the division Israel set up her own tabernacle in the place of the temple in which God dwelt1 Kings 12:32, while with Judah the Temple of God still remained. The presence of God aggravated Judah’s sins. In the times of the captivity it was customary among the Jews to give their children names connected with the temple or tabernacle.

More from Ezekiel 23

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