Ezekiel 23:14

But Oholibah carried her prostitution even further. She saw the men portrayed on the wall, images of the Chaldeans, engraved in vermilion,

Study Bible

But she increased her prostitution
This phrase highlights the escalating unfaithfulness of the nation, symbolized by the allegorical figure of a woman. The Hebrew root for "prostitution" is "זָנָה" (zanah), which often denotes not only physical adultery but also spiritual infidelity, particularly idolatry. In the context of Ezekiel, this represents Israel's increasing engagement with pagan practices and alliances, contrary to their covenant with God. Historically, this reflects the period when Israel and Judah sought political alliances with surrounding nations, compromising their distinct identity as God's chosen people.

When she saw men portrayed on the wall
The imagery of "men portrayed on the wall" suggests the allure of foreign cultures and their practices. The Hebrew word for "portrayed" is "חָקוּק" (chaquq), meaning engraved or inscribed, indicating a deliberate and lasting impression. This can be seen as a metaphor for how deeply the Israelites were influenced by the surrounding nations. Archaeologically, wall reliefs and carvings were common in ancient Near Eastern cultures, often depicting warriors and deities, which could captivate and seduce the Israelites into idolatry.

the images of the Chaldeans portrayed in vermilion
The "images of the Chaldeans" refers to the Babylonians, known for their military prowess and cultural achievements. The Chaldeans were a dominant force in the region, and their influence was both feared and admired. "Vermilion" is a bright red pigment, derived from the Hebrew "שָׁשַׁר" (shashar), symbolizing both beauty and bloodshed. This color choice emphasizes the seductive yet dangerous nature of these foreign influences. Scripturally, this serves as a warning against the temptation to conform to worldly powers and the resulting spiritual adultery, urging believers to remain faithful to God’s covenant.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who ministered to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. He is the author of the book and delivers God's messages of judgment and restoration.

2. Oholibah
Symbolic name for Jerusalem, representing the southern kingdom of Judah. In this chapter, she is depicted as a woman who engages in idolatry and unfaithfulness to God.

3. Chaldeans
A people from southern Babylonia, known for their influence and power. They are depicted as a source of temptation and idolatry for Jerusalem.

4. Images on the Wall
Representations of the Chaldeans that captivated Jerusalem, leading her further into idolatry and away from God.

5. Prostitution
Used metaphorically to describe the spiritual unfaithfulness and idolatry of Jerusalem, as she turns away from God to pursue foreign alliances and gods.

Teaching Points

Idolatry's Allure
The passage warns against the seductive nature of idolatry, which can captivate and lead believers away from God. We must guard our hearts against modern-day idols.

Spiritual Unfaithfulness
Just as Jerusalem was unfaithful to God, believers today must remain vigilant in their commitment to God, avoiding spiritual adultery.

Cultural Temptations
The Chaldeans' images symbolize cultural influences that can lead us astray. Christians should be discerning about the cultural messages they embrace.

Repentance and Return
Despite unfaithfulness, God calls His people to repentance and restoration. We should seek God's forgiveness and return to Him wholeheartedly.

Vigilance in Faith
The passage encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith, resisting the temptation to conform to worldly standards.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the metaphor of prostitution in Ezekiel 23:14 help us understand the seriousness of idolatry in our own lives?

2. In what ways do modern-day "images on the wall" tempt us to turn away from God, and how can we resist these temptations?

3. How does the historical context of the Chaldeans' influence over Judah enhance our understanding of this passage?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that we remain faithful to God amidst cultural pressures and temptations?

5. How do the themes of repentance and restoration in Ezekiel 23:14 connect with the broader message of the Gospel?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:4-5
This passage warns against making and worshiping idols, which connects to the idolatry depicted in Ezekiel 23:14.

Jeremiah 3:6-10
Jeremiah also uses the metaphor of prostitution to describe Israel's unfaithfulness, similar to Ezekiel's depiction of Jerusalem.

2 Kings 24:1-4
Provides historical context for the Chaldeans' influence over Judah, which is part of the backdrop for Ezekiel's prophecy.