Ezekiel 23:21

So you revisited the indecency of your youth, when the Egyptians caressed your bosom and pressed your young breasts.

Study Bible

So you revisited the indecency of your youth
This phrase refers to Israel's return to idolatrous practices and alliances that were prevalent in their early history. The "indecency" symbolizes spiritual unfaithfulness, often depicted as adultery in prophetic literature. Historically, Israel's early interactions with Egypt involved adopting some of their religious practices, which were contrary to the worship of Yahweh. This return to past sins highlights a cycle of disobedience and repentance seen throughout Israel's history, as in Judges 2:11-19.

when the Egyptians caressed your bosom
The imagery of Egypt "caressing" Israel's bosom is a metaphor for the political and religious entanglements between Israel and Egypt. Egypt, a powerful nation, often influenced Israel through treaties and cultural exchanges. This phrase suggests a reliance on Egypt for security and prosperity, which was condemned by prophets like Isaiah (Isaiah 30:1-3) who warned against trusting in foreign powers instead of God. Archaeological findings show extensive trade and interaction between these nations, supporting the biblical narrative of their close, yet problematic, relationship.

and pressed your young breasts
This phrase continues the metaphor of intimate relations, symbolizing Israel's vulnerability and susceptibility to foreign influence during its formative years. The "young breasts" indicate a time of immaturity and development, when Israel was more easily led astray. This can be connected to the early monarchy period when alliances with surrounding nations often led to the introduction of foreign gods and practices, as seen in Solomon's reign (1 Kings 11:1-8). The prophetic literature frequently uses such imagery to convey the spiritual infidelity of God's people, contrasting it with the purity and faithfulness expected in their covenant relationship with Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who ministered to the exiles in Babylon. He is known for his vivid visions and symbolic actions.

2. Oholah and Oholibah
Symbolic names for Samaria and Jerusalem, representing the Northern and Southern Kingdoms of Israel, respectively. They are depicted as sisters in Ezekiel 23.

3. Egyptians
A nation often associated with Israel's past idolatry and reliance on foreign powers instead of trusting in God.

4. Israel's Youth
Refers to the early history of Israel, particularly during their time in Egypt, which is symbolic of their spiritual infidelity.

5. Babylonian Exile
The context in which Ezekiel prophesied, a time of judgment and reflection for the people of Israel.

Teaching Points

Spiritual Adultery
Just as Israel was unfaithful to God by turning to other nations and their gods, Christians today must guard against idolatry in any form, whether it be materialism, power, or other distractions from God.

Remembering Past Sins
The verse highlights the danger of returning to past sins. Believers are called to leave behind their old ways and live a new life in Christ.

God's Call to Repentance
Despite Israel's unfaithfulness, God's desire is for His people to repent and return to Him. This is a call for personal reflection and repentance in our own lives.

The Consequences of Idolatry
The imagery of Ezekiel 23 serves as a warning of the spiritual and physical consequences of turning away from God. It is a reminder to remain faithful and obedient to His commands.

The Importance of Spiritual Maturity
Just as Israel was called to grow beyond their "youthful" indiscretions, Christians are encouraged to mature in their faith and understanding of God's will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of spiritual adultery in Ezekiel 23:21 challenge your understanding of faithfulness to God?

2. In what ways can modern believers be tempted to "revisit the indecency of their youth," and how can they guard against this?

3. How does the historical context of Israel's relationship with Egypt enhance your understanding of this passage?

4. What parallels can you draw between the warnings in Ezekiel 23 and the teachings of Jesus regarding idolatry and faithfulness?

5. How can the call to repentance in Ezekiel 23 be applied to your personal spiritual journey today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezekiel 16
This chapter also uses the metaphor of unfaithfulness to describe Israel's idolatry and spiritual adultery.

Jeremiah 2
Jeremiah speaks of Israel's unfaithfulness and their pursuit of other gods, similar to the imagery used in Ezekiel.

Hosea 2
Hosea uses the metaphor of an unfaithful wife to describe Israel's relationship with God, emphasizing God's desire for repentance and restoration.