Ezekiel 23:37

For they have committed adultery, and blood is on their hands. They have committed adultery with their idols. They have even sacrificed their children, whom they bore to Me, in the fire as food for their idols.

Study Bible

For they have committed adultery
The phrase "committed adultery" in Hebrew is "na'aph," which not only refers to physical infidelity but also symbolizes spiritual unfaithfulness to God. In the context of Ezekiel, this is a powerful metaphor for Israel's idolatry. Historically, Israel's covenant with God is likened to a marriage, and turning to other gods is akin to marital betrayal. This imagery underscores the gravity of Israel's sin, emphasizing the deep personal and communal breach in their relationship with God.

and blood is on their hands
The phrase "blood is on their hands" indicates guilt for acts of violence and murder. In the ancient Near Eastern context, bloodshed was a serious offense that defiled the land and required atonement. This phrase suggests that Israel's idolatry was not just a spiritual betrayal but also led to moral and social corruption, including acts of violence and injustice. The imagery of blood on hands is a vivid depiction of culpability and the need for repentance and cleansing.

They have committed adultery with their idols
Here, "adultery with their idols" reinforces the metaphor of spiritual infidelity. The Hebrew word for idols, "gillulim," often carries a derogatory connotation, emphasizing the worthlessness and detestable nature of these false gods. This phrase highlights the futility and degradation of Israel's idolatry, as they exchanged the glory of the living God for lifeless images. It serves as a call to recognize the emptiness of idolatry and return to the true God.

and even sacrificed their children
The act of sacrificing children, likely referring to the worship of deities like Molech, was one of the most abhorrent practices condemned in the Old Testament. This phrase underscores the extreme moral decay and the extent of Israel's apostasy. It serves as a stark reminder of how far the people had strayed from God's commandments, which valued life and prohibited such detestable practices. The historical context of child sacrifice highlights the need for a return to the sanctity of life as ordained by God.

whom they bore to Me
The phrase "whom they bore to Me" emphasizes the personal relationship between God and the children of Israel. It reflects the belief that children are a heritage from the Lord, belonging to Him. This underscores the tragedy of their sacrifice, as it was not just a violation of parental duty but a direct affront to God, who entrusted these children to their care. It serves as a poignant reminder of the sacred responsibility of nurturing and protecting life as a divine gift.

passing them through the fire as food for their idols
"Passing them through the fire" refers to the ritualistic burning of children as offerings to idols. This practice was not only a physical atrocity but also a spiritual abomination. The phrase "as food for their idols" highlights the senselessness of such acts, as idols, being lifeless, cannot consume or benefit from these sacrifices. This imagery serves to illustrate the utter depravity and futility of idolatry, calling the people to repentance and a return to the worship of the one true God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who ministered to the exiles in Babylon. He is known for his vivid visions and symbolic actions.

2. Oholah and Oholibah
Symbolic names for Samaria and Jerusalem, representing the Northern and Southern Kingdoms of Israel, respectively. They are depicted as sisters who have committed spiritual adultery.

3. Idols
Represent false gods that Israel pursued, leading them away from the worship of the one true God.

4. Child Sacrifice
A heinous practice adopted from surrounding pagan cultures, where children were offered as sacrifices to idols.

5. Babylonian Exile
The context in which Ezekiel prophesied, a period of judgment and reflection for the Israelites due to their unfaithfulness.

Teaching Points

Spiritual Adultery
Just as physical adultery breaks the covenant of marriage, spiritual adultery breaks our covenant with God. We must guard our hearts against anything that takes precedence over our relationship with Him.

The Consequences of Idolatry
Idolatry leads to destructive behaviors and consequences. We must examine our lives for modern-day idols that may lead us away from God.

The Sanctity of Life
The practice of child sacrifice in ancient times is a stark reminder of the value God places on human life. We are called to protect and cherish life in all its forms.

Repentance and Restoration
Despite Israel's unfaithfulness, God's desire is for repentance and restoration. We are encouraged to turn back to God, no matter how far we have strayed.

Faithfulness in Covenant
Our relationship with God is a covenant that requires faithfulness. We are called to live in a way that honors this sacred bond.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day idols that can lead us away from our relationship with God, and how can we guard against them?

2. How does the concept of spiritual adultery challenge us to evaluate our personal faithfulness to God?

3. In what ways can we apply the principle of the sanctity of life in our daily interactions and decisions?

4. How does understanding the historical context of the Babylonian Exile enhance our comprehension of Ezekiel's message?

5. What steps can we take to ensure that our covenant relationship with God remains strong and unbroken?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:3-5
The commandment against idolatry, highlighting the seriousness of Israel's sin in turning to idols.

Jeremiah 3:6-10
Jeremiah's similar depiction of Israel's unfaithfulness as adultery, reinforcing the theme of spiritual infidelity.

Leviticus 18:21
The prohibition against child sacrifice, underscoring the gravity of Israel's actions in Ezekiel 23:37.