Ezekiel 23:44

And they slept with her as with a prostitute; they slept with Oholah and Oholibah, those lewd women.

Study Bible

And they had relations with her
This phrase indicates a physical and intimate interaction, often used metaphorically in the Bible to describe idolatry and unfaithfulness to God. The Hebrew root word here is "בּוֹא" (bo), which means "to come" or "to enter." In the context of Ezekiel, it symbolizes the spiritual infidelity of Israel and Judah, represented by Oholah and Oholibah. Historically, this reflects the nations' alliances and idol worship, which were seen as acts of betrayal against God.

as one does with a prostitute
The comparison to a prostitute underscores the transactional and impersonal nature of the relationships. The Hebrew word for prostitute is "זוֹנָה" (zonah), which conveys not only sexual immorality but also spiritual unfaithfulness. In ancient Israel, prostitution was often linked to pagan worship practices, highlighting the depth of Israel and Judah's apostasy. This metaphor serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's covenant.

So they had relations with Oholah and Oholibah
Oholah and Oholibah are symbolic names for Samaria (Israel) and Jerusalem (Judah), respectively. The names themselves are significant: Oholah means "her tent," suggesting a place of worship or dwelling, while Oholibah means "my tent is in her," indicating God's presence in Jerusalem. The repeated phrase emphasizes the persistent unfaithfulness of both kingdoms, despite their unique relationships with God. Historically, this reflects the political and religious alliances that led them away from their covenant with God.

the lewd women
The term "lewd" is translated from the Hebrew word "זִמָּה" (zimmah), which implies wickedness or depravity. This characterization of Oholah and Oholibah as "lewd women" highlights their moral and spiritual corruption. In the biblical context, lewdness is often associated with idolatry and the abandonment of God's laws. This serves as a powerful indictment of the spiritual state of Israel and Judah, calling them to recognize their sin and return to God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who ministered to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. He is known for his vivid visions and symbolic acts.

2. Oholah and Oholibah
Symbolic names representing Samaria and Jerusalem, respectively. These names are used to depict the spiritual unfaithfulness of the two cities.

3. Samaria
The capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, often criticized by prophets for idolatry and alliances with pagan nations.

4. Jerusalem
The capital of the Southern Kingdom of Judah, also condemned for similar spiritual adultery and idolatry.

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

Teaching Points

Spiritual Adultery
Just as Oholah and Oholibah were unfaithful, believers today must guard against idolatry and spiritual compromise. Our relationship with God should be exclusive and pure.

Consequences of Sin
The passage highlights the severe consequences of turning away from God. It serves as a warning to remain faithful and obedient to His commands.

God's Call to Repentance
Despite the harsh imagery, God's desire is for His people to return to Him. Repentance and restoration are always possible through His grace.

The Danger of Worldly Alliances
The alliances with pagan nations led to Israel and Judah's downfall. Believers are cautioned against forming partnerships that compromise their faith.

The Role of Prophets
Ezekiel's bold message reminds us of the importance of speaking truth, even when it is uncomfortable. We are called to be voices of truth in our communities.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the metaphor of Oholah and Oholibah challenge our understanding of faithfulness in our relationship with God?

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 consequences faced by Samaria and Jerusalem serve as a warning for us today?

4. What parallels can you draw between the message of Ezekiel 23 and the teachings of Jesus regarding purity and faithfulness?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Ezekiel 23 to our interactions and relationships with the secular world?

Connections to Other Scriptures

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

Hosea 1-3
Hosea's marriage to Gomer is a living parable of Israel's unfaithfulness and God's enduring love, paralleling the themes in Ezekiel 23.

Revelation 17
The imagery of the harlot in Revelation draws on Old Testament themes of spiritual adultery, similar to Ezekiel's depiction of Oholah and Oholibah.