Ezekiel 23:7

She offered sexual favors to all the elite of Assyria. She defiled herself with all the idols of those for whom she lusted.

Study Bible

She bestowed her harlotry upon them
The phrase "bestowed her harlotry" uses the imagery of prostitution to describe Israel's unfaithfulness to God. In Hebrew, the word for "harlotry" (זְנוּת, zenut) often symbolizes idolatry and spiritual infidelity. This metaphor is powerful, illustrating how Israel, represented by the allegorical figure of a woman, willingly engaged in alliances and practices that were contrary to her covenant with God. Historically, this reflects Israel's political and religious entanglements with surrounding nations, particularly Assyria, which led to moral and spiritual corruption.

all of them choice men of Assyria
The "choice men of Assyria" refers to the elite and influential figures of the Assyrian empire. Assyria was a dominant power during the time of Ezekiel, known for its military prowess and cultural influence. By aligning with these "choice men," Israel sought security and prestige, yet this alliance led to further spiritual decline. The Hebrew term for "choice" (מִבְחַר, mibchar) suggests a selection of the best or most desirable, indicating that Israel was drawn to what seemed impressive and powerful in worldly terms, rather than relying on God.

and with all whom she lusted after
The word "lusted" (עָגַב, 'agab) conveys a strong, uncontrolled desire. This phrase highlights Israel's intense craving for foreign alliances and idolatrous practices. It underscores the depth of Israel's spiritual adultery, as they pursued these relationships with fervor and passion, forsaking their devotion to God. This reflects a broader biblical theme where misplaced desires lead to spiritual downfall.

with all their idols she defiled herself
The term "idols" (גִּלּוּלִים, gillulim) is often used in the Old Testament to describe the detestable objects of worship that the Israelites adopted from other nations. The act of defiling oneself with idols indicates a profound spiritual contamination. In the historical context, this refers to the adoption of Assyrian religious practices and the worship of their gods, which was strictly forbidden by the Mosaic Law. This defilement is not just a physical act but a deep spiritual corruption, symbolizing the breaking of the covenant relationship with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Oholah and Oholibah
These are symbolic names for Samaria and Jerusalem, respectively. In Ezekiel 23, they represent the Northern and Southern Kingdoms of Israel, depicted as two sisters who engage in idolatry and unfaithfulness to God.

2. Assyria
A powerful empire during the time of Ezekiel, known for its military might and influence. The Israelites sought alliances with Assyria, which led them into idolatry and spiritual adultery.

3. Idolatry
The worship of idols or false gods, which is a central theme in this passage. It represents Israel's unfaithfulness to Yahweh by turning to other nations and their gods.

4. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who conveyed messages of judgment and restoration to the Israelites during their exile in Babylon.

5. Harlotry
Used metaphorically to describe Israel's unfaithfulness to God through alliances and idol worship, akin to marital infidelity.

Teaching Points

Spiritual Adultery
Just as Israel was unfaithful to God by turning to other nations and their idols, Christians today must guard against allowing anything to take the place of God in their hearts.

Consequences of Idolatry
The passage warns of the spiritual and physical consequences of idolatry. Believers are reminded that turning away from God leads to destruction and separation from His blessings.

Faithfulness to God
The call to remain faithful to God is timeless. Christians are encouraged to examine their lives for any "idols" that may be drawing them away from their relationship with God.

Repentance and Restoration
Despite Israel's unfaithfulness, God's desire for repentance and restoration is evident. Believers are reminded of God's grace and the opportunity to return to Him.

Influence of the World
The allure of worldly power and influence can lead believers astray. Christians are called to be in the world but not of it, maintaining their distinct identity in Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the metaphor of harlotry in Ezekiel 23:7 help us understand the seriousness of idolatry in our own lives?

2. In what ways might modern Christians be tempted to form "alliances" with worldly influences, similar to Israel's alliances with Assyria?

3. How can we identify and remove idols from our lives to ensure our faithfulness to God?

4. What lessons can we learn from Israel's experience with Assyria about the consequences of turning away from God?

5. How does the theme of repentance and restoration in Ezekiel 23 encourage us in our personal walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hosea 1-3
Hosea's marriage to Gomer is a parallel account illustrating Israel's unfaithfulness and God's enduring love. Both Hosea and Ezekiel use the metaphor of adultery to describe Israel's idolatry.

Jeremiah 3
Jeremiah also speaks of Israel's spiritual adultery and calls for repentance, emphasizing God's desire for His people to return to Him.

2 Kings 17
This chapter details the fall of Samaria and the reasons for Israel's exile, including their idolatry and alliances with foreign nations like Assyria.