"Son of man," He said to me, "do you see this? Is it not enough for the house of Judah to commit the abominations they are practicing here, that they must also fill the land with violence and continually provoke Me to anger? Look, they are even putting the branch to their nose! Son of manThis phrase is a frequent address to Ezekiel, emphasizing his humanity and mortality in contrast to the divine nature of God. The Hebrew term "ben adam" underscores the prophet's role as a representative of humanity, tasked with conveying God's messages. It serves as a reminder of the humility and responsibility inherent in being chosen as a vessel for divine communication. He said to me do you see this? Is it a trivial matter for the house of Judah to commit the abominations they are practicing here that they must also fill the land with violence and continually provoke Me to anger? Look they are putting the branch to their nose! Persons / Places / Events 1. EzekielA prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, chosen by God to deliver His messages to the Israelites. 2. House of Judah The southern kingdom of Israel, consisting of the tribes of Judah and Benjamin, known for its capital, Jerusalem. 3. Abominations Refers to the idolatrous practices and detestable acts committed by the people of Judah, which were offensive to God. 4. Violence The moral and social corruption that filled the land as a result of turning away from God's commandments. 5. Branch to their nose A debated phrase, possibly referring to a pagan ritual or act of contempt towards God. Teaching Points The Seriousness of SinSin is never trivial in the eyes of God. The abominations committed by Judah were not just cultural practices but direct violations of God's law. Consequences of Idolatry Idolatry leads to moral decay and societal violence. When God is not the center, chaos ensues. Provoking God to Anger Persistent sin and rebellion provoke God's righteous anger. His patience is vast, but not infinite. Cultural Practices vs. God's Commands Cultural norms should never override God's commands. Believers must discern and reject practices that contradict Scripture. Repentance and Restoration Despite the severity of Judah's sins, God's desire is for repentance and restoration. He is always ready to forgive those who turn back to Him. Bible Study Questions 1. What specific abominations were the people of Judah committing, and how do these relate to modern-day idolatry?2. How does the phrase "putting the branch to their nose" reflect the people's attitude towards God, and what are similar attitudes we might hold today? 3. In what ways does idolatry lead to violence and moral decay in society, both in biblical times and today? 4. How can we ensure that our cultural practices align with God's commands, and what steps can we take to avoid being influenced by ungodly norms? 5. Reflect on a time when you felt distant from God due to sin. How did repentance and seeking God's forgiveness restore your relationship with Him? Connections to Other Scriptures Jeremiah 7This chapter also addresses the abominations and idolatry of Judah, emphasizing the people's false sense of security in the temple. Isaiah 1 Isaiah speaks against the sinful nation, highlighting their rebellion and the resulting consequences. 2 Kings 21 Details the reign of King Manasseh, whose idolatrous practices led Judah into deep sin. Romans 1 Paul discusses the consequences of idolatry and turning away from God, leading to moral decay. Revelation 18 Describes the fall of Babylon, symbolizing the ultimate judgment against idolatry and corruption.
People Ezekiel, Jaazaniah, ShaphanPlaces JerusalemTopics Abomination, Abominations, Afresh, Anger, Angry, Behaviour, Behold, Branch, Commit, Committed, Continually, Detestable, Disgusting, Fill, Filled, Forth, Full, Further, Hast, Judah, Making, Matter, Nose, O, Provoke, Provoked, Provoking, Putting, Repeatedly, Returned, Seest, Slight, Turn, Twig, Violence, Violent, YetDictionary of Bible Themes Ezekiel 8:17 1135 God, suffering of Library Chambers of Imagery'Then said He unto me, Son of man, hast thou seen what the ancients of the house of Israel do in the dark, every man in the chambers of his imagery!'--EZEKIEL viii. 12. This is part of a vision which came to the prophet in his captivity. He is carried away in imagination from his home amongst the exiles in the East to the Temple of Jerusalem. There he sees in one dreadful series representations of all the forms of idolatry to which the handful that were left in the land were cleaving. There meets … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture A Message from the Crowned Christ The Synagogue at Nazareth - Synagogue-Worship and Arrangements. What the Ruler's Discrimination Should be Between Correction and Connivance, Between Fervour and Gentleness. Of the Necessity of Divine Influences to Produce Regeneration in the Soul. The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem: The Seventh Commandment Ezekiel Links Ezekiel 8:17 NIVEzekiel 8:17 NLT Ezekiel 8:17 ESV Ezekiel 8:17 NASB Ezekiel 8:17 KJV Ezekiel 8:17 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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