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Book of Ezekiel - Chapter 23 - Verse 44

23:44
Yet they went in unto her, as they go in unto a woman that playeth the harlot: so went they in unto Aholah and unto Aholibah, the lewd women.

Meaning

In this verse from the Book of Ezekiel, the prophet uses the metaphor of two sisters, Aholah and Aholibah, to represent the kingdoms of Israel and Judah. The verse describes how these two kingdoms, who were meant to be loyal to God, instead rebelled against Him and engaged in idol worship, similar to a woman who acts like a prostitute. By comparing their actions to those of a promiscuous woman, the prophet emphasizes the severity of their unfaithfulness. The use of such imagery serves to convey the depth of the betrayal felt by God towards His people. It highlights the spiritual adultery committed by the Israelites and Judah, as they turned away from the true God and worshiped false idols. The verse serves as a warning to the Israelites to repent and return to God, or face the consequences of their actions.

Theological Overview

This verse from Ezekiel 23:44 depicts a vivid metaphorical image of the unfaithfulness of Israel and Judah towards God. The names Aholah and Aholibah refer to the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah, respectively. The actions described here are symbolic of the idolatry and spiritual adultery committed by the Israelites. By comparing their relationship with God to that of a man with a prostitute, the prophet emphasizes the severity of their sin and the depth of their betrayal. The word 'harlot' in the original Hebrew text carries a strong connotation of unfaithfulness and immorality. Through this poetic language, Ezekiel aims to expose the spiritual degradation of the people and call them to repentance. The theological interpretation of this verse serves as a warning to believers about the consequences of abandoning their relationship with God in pursuit of worldly pleasures. It highlights the importance of remaining true to God and avoiding the temptations of idolatry.

American Standard Version

And they went in unto her, as they go in unto a harlot: so went they in unto Oholah and unto Oholibah, the lewd women.
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