Ezekiel 23:36

Then the LORD said to me: "Son of man, will you pass judgment against Oholah and Oholibah? Then declare to them their abominations.

Study Bible

Then the LORD said to me
The phrase begins with the divine initiation of communication, emphasizing the authority and sovereignty of God. The Hebrew root for "LORD" is "YHWH," the sacred name of God, which underscores His eternal and unchanging nature. This introduction sets the stage for a message of judgment, reminding us that God is actively involved in the affairs of His people and speaks through His prophets to guide, correct, and instruct.

Son of man
This title, "Son of man," is used frequently in Ezekiel, highlighting the prophet's humanity and his role as a representative of the people. The Hebrew term "ben adam" signifies both humility and the responsibility bestowed upon Ezekiel. It serves as a reminder that while Ezekiel is a mere human, he is chosen by God to deliver His divine message, bridging the gap between the divine and the mortal.

will you judge
The call to "judge" is a directive from God to Ezekiel, indicating a divine mandate to pronounce judgment. The Hebrew word "shaphat" means to govern, to vindicate, or to punish. This reflects the role of the prophet as not only a messenger but also as an agent of divine justice. It underscores the seriousness of the situation and the necessity of addressing sin and rebellion.

Oholah and Oholibah?
These names are symbolic representations of Samaria and Jerusalem, respectively. "Oholah" means "her tent," and "Oholibah" means "my tent is in her," reflecting their roles as centers of worship and their relationship with God. Historically, these cities were centers of idolatry and unfaithfulness, and their personification as sisters highlights their shared guilt and the depth of their spiritual adultery.

Then confront them
The command to "confront" is a call to direct engagement with the sin of the people. The Hebrew root "yakah" implies a rebuke or correction, emphasizing the need for repentance and the seriousness of their transgressions. This confrontation is not merely punitive but is intended to bring about awareness and change, reflecting God's desire for His people to return to Him.

with their abominations
The term "abominations" refers to detestable practices, particularly idolatry and moral corruption. The Hebrew word "toebah" is often used in the context of idolatrous practices that are abhorrent to God. This highlights the gravity of their sin and the reason for divine judgment. It serves as a warning to all believers about the dangers of turning away from God and embracing the ways of the world.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD
The sovereign God of Israel, who communicates His judgments and commands through His prophets.

2. Son of Man
A title used for Ezekiel, emphasizing his role as a human messenger of God's divine message.

3. Oholah
A symbolic name for Samaria, representing the Northern Kingdom of Israel, known for its idolatry and alliances with foreign nations.

4. Oholibah
A symbolic name for Jerusalem, representing the Southern Kingdom of Judah, also guilty of spiritual adultery and idolatry.

5. Abominations
Refers to the idolatrous practices and moral corruption that both kingdoms engaged in, which were detestable in the sight of God.

Teaching Points

Understanding Spiritual Adultery
Recognize that idolatry and unfaithfulness to God are akin to spiritual adultery. Just as Oholah and Oholibah were judged for their abominations, we must guard against allowing anything to take God's place in our hearts.

The Role of the Prophet
Ezekiel's role as "Son of Man" highlights the responsibility of God's messengers to confront sin and call for repentance. We, too, are called to speak truth in love and address sin within our communities.

God's Righteous Judgment
God's judgment on Oholah and Oholibah serves as a reminder of His holiness and justice. We must understand that God's patience has limits, and persistent sin will lead to consequences.

Repentance and Restoration
While the passage focuses on judgment, the broader account of Scripture emphasizes God's desire for repentance and restoration. We should seek to turn from sin and return to God, who is merciful and forgiving.

Personal Reflection
Consider areas in your life where you may be unfaithful to God. Reflect on how you can realign your priorities to honor Him above all else.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the allegory of Oholah and Oholibah teach us about the nature of idolatry and its consequences?

2. How does Ezekiel's role as "Son of Man" inform our understanding of the responsibility to confront sin in our own lives and communities?

3. In what ways can we identify and address "abominations" or sinful practices in our own lives today?

4. How do the themes of judgment and repentance in Ezekiel 23 relate to the broader message of the Gospel?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's discipline. How did it lead to personal growth and a deeper relationship with Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezekiel 16
This chapter also uses allegory to describe Jerusalem's unfaithfulness, similar to the depiction of Oholah and Oholibah.

Jeremiah 3
Jeremiah speaks of Israel and Judah's spiritual adultery, paralleling the themes in Ezekiel 23.

Hosea 1-3
Hosea's marriage to Gomer symbolizes Israel's unfaithfulness, akin to the allegory of Oholah and Oholibah.

Revelation 17
The imagery of the harlot in Revelation can be seen as a continuation of the theme of spiritual adultery and judgment.