Ezekiel 23:2

"Son of man, there were two women, daughters of the same mother,

Study Bible

Son of man
This phrase is a frequent address to Ezekiel, emphasizing his humanity and role as a representative of the people. In Hebrew, "ben adam" underscores the prophet's connection to mankind, serving as a bridge between God and Israel. It reminds us of the humility and responsibility inherent in being chosen to convey divine messages. The term also foreshadows the New Testament use of "Son of Man" for Jesus, highlighting the continuity of God's plan through human history.

there were two women
The imagery of two women is symbolic, representing the divided kingdoms of Israel and Judah. Historically, these two entities were once united under a single monarchy but split after Solomon's reign. This division led to distinct political and spiritual paths, often marked by idolatry and unfaithfulness to God. The use of women as symbols here is poignant, as it evokes the intimate and covenantal relationship God intended with His people, akin to a marriage.

daughters of the same mother
This phrase emphasizes the shared origin and heritage of Israel and Judah. Despite their division, both kingdoms stem from the same covenantal promises given to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The "mother" here can be seen as the nation of Israel as a whole, or metaphorically, the covenant relationship with God. This shared lineage serves as a reminder of their collective identity and the unity they are called to in faithfulness to God. Historically, it also reflects the shared cultural and religious practices that should have bound them together, despite their political separation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Son of Man
This is a title used for the prophet Ezekiel, emphasizing his humanity and role as a representative of God to the people of Israel.

2. Two Women
Symbolic representations of the kingdoms of Israel and Judah. They are depicted as sisters, sharing the same heritage and covenant relationship with God.

3. Daughters of the Same Mother
This phrase indicates that both Israel and Judah originated from the same ancestral line, the people of God, and shared the same spiritual heritage.

Teaching Points

Understanding Spiritual Adultery
The imagery of two women symbolizes the spiritual unfaithfulness of God's people. It serves as a warning against idolatry and turning away from God.

Shared Heritage and Responsibility
Both Israel and Judah shared the same spiritual heritage. Believers today share a common faith and are called to uphold the values and teachings of Christ.

Consequences of Unfaithfulness
The account warns of the consequences of spiritual adultery, urging believers to remain faithful to God and His commandments.

Repentance and Restoration
Despite the unfaithfulness depicted, God's desire is for repentance and restoration. This is a call to return to God with a sincere heart.

The Role of the Prophet
Ezekiel's role as "Son of Man" highlights the responsibility of God's messengers to speak truth and call people back to righteousness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the metaphor of the two women in Ezekiel 23:2 help us understand the spiritual state of Israel and Judah?

2. In what ways can the shared heritage of Israel and Judah be compared to the shared faith of Christians today?

3. What are some modern-day forms of spiritual adultery that believers should be aware of and avoid?

4. How can the themes of repentance and restoration in Ezekiel 23 be applied to personal spiritual growth?

5. What lessons can we learn from Ezekiel's role as a prophet that can be applied to our own lives as witnesses of God's truth?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 3
This chapter also uses the metaphor of unfaithful sisters to describe Israel and Judah's spiritual adultery, highlighting their idolatry and turning away from God.

Hosea 1-3
Hosea's marriage to Gomer is a living parable of Israel's unfaithfulness, similar to the imagery used in Ezekiel 23.

Isaiah 1
Isaiah describes the moral and spiritual corruption of Judah, paralleling the themes of unfaithfulness found in Ezekiel 23.