Book of Ezekiel - Chapter 16 - Verse 46

Within the context of Ezekiel 16:46, the verse illustrates a metaphorical comparison between the cities of Samaria and Sodom to the kingdom of Judah. Samaria, represented as the elder sister, symbolizes the kingdom of Israel, while Sodom, the younger sister, represents the city of Jerusalem. The prophet Ezekiel uses these well-known cities to convey a message of judgment and condemnation upon Jerusalem for its sins and unfaithfulness to God. By drawing parallels between the actions of Judah and the sins of Samaria and Sodom, Ezekiel warns the people of Jerusalem of the impending consequences of their transgressions. The verse serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the need for repentance and a return to righteousness in order to avoid the same fate as their sister cities.

In this verse from Ezekiel 16:46, the prophet Ezekiel uses the imagery of two cities, Samaria and Sodom, to convey a theological message. Samaria is referred to as the elder sister, symbolizing the northern kingdom of Israel with its capital in Samaria. Sodom, on the other hand, is described as the younger sister, representing the city known for its wickedness in the book of Genesis. The comparison of these two cities serves to highlight the sinful behavior of both Samaria and Judah, who are being addressed in the broader context of this passage. The use of the terms "elder sister" and "younger sister" emphasizes the severity of their transgressions and the judgment that will come upon them for their unfaithfulness. Through this stark imagery, Ezekiel conveys the consequences of turning away from God and serves as a warning to the people of Judah to repent and turn back to Him.