Ezekiel 23:43

Then I said of her who had grown old in adulteries: 'Now let them use her as a prostitute, for that is all she is!'

Study Bible

Then I said of her who had grown old in adulteries:
This phrase refers to the nation of Israel, personified as a woman who has persistently engaged in spiritual adultery by worshiping other gods. The imagery of adultery is frequently used in the Old Testament to describe Israel's unfaithfulness to God (e.g., Hosea 1-3). The idea of "growing old" in adulteries suggests a long history of infidelity, indicating that Israel's idolatry was not a recent development but a persistent pattern. This reflects the historical context of Israel's repeated alliances with pagan nations and their gods, which led to moral and spiritual decay.

‘Now let them use her as a prostitute,
This part of the verse indicates a judgment from God, allowing Israel to face the consequences of her actions. The metaphor of prostitution is used to describe Israel's alliances with foreign nations and their gods, which were often politically and religiously motivated. In the ancient Near Eastern context, prostitution was not only a moral failing but also a symbol of degradation and loss of status. This judgment implies that Israel will be treated with contempt by the very nations she sought after, highlighting the futility and shame of her idolatry.

for that is all she is!’
This concluding phrase underscores the totality of Israel's spiritual degradation. It suggests that Israel's identity has become synonymous with her unfaithfulness, as she has fully embraced the role of a spiritual harlot. This reflects the prophetic theme of identity and consequence, where persistent sin leads to a redefined identity in the eyes of God. Theologically, it serves as a warning about the dangers of persistent sin and the loss of one's intended purpose and calling. This theme is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are called to remain faithful to Christ, avoiding spiritual adultery (James 4:4).

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 who engage in spiritual adultery.

3. Babylonian Exile
The period when the Israelites were taken captive by Babylon, serving as a backdrop for Ezekiel's prophecies.

4. Adultery
Used metaphorically to describe Israel's unfaithfulness to God through idolatry and alliances with pagan nations.

5. Prostitution
A metaphor for Israel's spiritual infidelity and pursuit of foreign gods and alliances.

Teaching Points

Spiritual Adultery
Just as Israel was unfaithful to God, believers today must guard against idolatry and spiritual compromise.

Consequences of Sin
The passage highlights the inevitable consequences of persistent sin and rebellion against God.

God's Righteous Judgment
God's judgment is just and serves as a warning to turn back to Him in repentance.

Call to Holiness
Believers are called to live lives set apart for God, avoiding the spiritual pitfalls that led to Israel's downfall.

Repentance and Restoration
Despite the harsh imagery, God's desire is for His people to return to Him and be restored.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the metaphor of adultery in Ezekiel 23:43 help us understand the seriousness of spiritual unfaithfulness?

2. In what ways can modern believers fall into the trap of spiritual adultery, and how can we guard against it?

3. How do the themes of judgment and mercy in Ezekiel 23 relate to the broader account of God's relationship with Israel?

4. What parallels can we draw between the spiritual state of Israel in Ezekiel's time and the church today?

5. How can the call to repentance in Ezekiel 23 inspire us to examine our own lives and seek God's forgiveness and restoration?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 3
This chapter also uses the metaphor of adultery to describe Israel's unfaithfulness, emphasizing God's call for repentance.

Hosea 1-3
Hosea's marriage to Gomer serves as a living parable of Israel's unfaithfulness and God's enduring love.

Revelation 17
The imagery of the harlot in Revelation echoes the themes of spiritual adultery and judgment found in Ezekiel 23.