Ezekiel 22:3

and tell her that this is what the Lord GOD says: 'O city who brings her own doom by shedding blood within her walls and making idols to defile herself,

Study Bible

You are to say
This phrase indicates a direct command from God to the prophet Ezekiel. The Hebrew root for "say" is "אָמַר" (amar), which is often used in the context of divine communication. It underscores the authority and responsibility of the prophet to convey God's message accurately. In a historical context, prophets were seen as the mouthpieces of God, and their words carried the weight of divine authority.

This is what the Lord GOD says
This phrase is a formal introduction to a prophetic oracle. The use of "Lord GOD" translates the Hebrew "אֲדֹנָי יְהוִה" (Adonai Yahweh), emphasizing both the sovereignty and the covenantal relationship of God with His people. It reminds the audience of God's ultimate authority and His personal involvement in the affairs of Israel.

A city that brings on herself doom
The phrase highlights the self-destructive nature of Jerusalem's actions. The Hebrew word for "doom" is "דָּם" (dam), which can also mean "blood," indicating violence and bloodshed. This reflects the historical context of Jerusalem's moral and spiritual decline, where the city's own actions are leading to its downfall.

by shedding blood in her midst
This phrase points to the rampant violence and injustice within Jerusalem. The shedding of innocent blood was a grave sin in the Hebrew Scriptures, often leading to divine judgment. Historically, this reflects the social and moral corruption prevalent in Jerusalem at the time, where leaders and people alike were guilty of murder and oppression.

and defiles herself by making idols
Idolatry was a significant issue in ancient Israel, directly violating the first two commandments. The Hebrew word for "defiles" is "טָמֵא" (tame), meaning to make unclean or impure. This phrase underscores the spiritual adultery of the people, as they turned from worshiping the one true God to false gods. Archaeological findings have uncovered various idols from this period, confirming the widespread practice of idolatry in ancient Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet called by God to deliver messages of judgment and hope to the Israelites during their exile in Babylon.

2. The Lord GOD
The sovereign and holy God of Israel, who speaks through Ezekiel to convey His judgment and expectations.

3. Jerusalem
The city referred to in this passage, known for its spiritual significance but also for its moral and spiritual corruption at the time.

4. Bloodshed
Represents the violence and injustice prevalent in Jerusalem, leading to its impending judgment.

5. Idols
Objects of false worship that defile the city, symbolizing the people's departure from true worship of God.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
The passage highlights the inevitable judgment that comes from persistent sin, particularly violence and idolatry. Believers are reminded that God is just and will not overlook sin.

The Danger of Idolatry
Idolatry defiles not only individuals but entire communities. Christians are called to examine their lives for anything that takes the place of God and to remove such idols.

The Call to Repentance
Even in the face of judgment, God’s desire is for His people to turn back to Him. This passage serves as a call to repentance and renewal of faith.

The Role of the Prophet
Ezekiel’s role as a messenger of God’s truth is a reminder of the importance of speaking truth in love, even when it is difficult or unpopular.

The Holiness of God
God’s response to the sins of Jerusalem underscores His holiness and the standard of purity He expects from His people.

Bible Study Questions

1. What specific sins are highlighted in Ezekiel 22:3, and how do they relate to the broader context of the chapter?

2. How does the concept of idolatry in Ezekiel 22:3 apply to modern-day believers? What are some contemporary forms of idolatry?

3. In what ways does the message of judgment in Ezekiel 22:3 serve as a warning for us today? How can we respond to this warning?

4. How does Ezekiel’s role as a prophet inform our understanding of the responsibility to speak truth in our own communities?

5. What other biblical passages reinforce the themes of judgment and repentance found in Ezekiel 22:3, and how can they guide our personal spiritual growth?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 18:24-30
Discusses the defilement of the land through idolatry and immoral practices, similar to the defilement mentioned in Ezekiel 22:3.

Jeremiah 7:9-11
Highlights the hypocrisy of the people who commit sins like murder and idolatry while believing they are safe in the temple.

Isaiah 1:15-17
Calls out the bloodshed and injustice in Jerusalem, urging the people to seek justice and righteousness.

Psalm 106:37-38
Describes the shedding of innocent blood through idolatrous practices, paralleling the sins of Jerusalem.

Revelation 18:24
Refers to the blood of prophets and saints found in Babylon, drawing a parallel to the bloodshed in Jerusalem.