Ezekiel 44:7

In addition to all your other abominations, you brought in foreigners uncircumcised in both heart and flesh to occupy My sanctuary; you defiled My temple when you offered My food--the fat and the blood; you broke My covenant.

Study Bible

In addition to all your other abominations
This phrase sets the stage by indicating that the actions being described are not isolated incidents but part of a broader pattern of disobedience and sin. The Hebrew word for "abominations" is "תּוֹעֵבוֹת" (to'evot), which often refers to practices that are detestable or repugnant to God, particularly idolatry and moral corruption. This highlights the gravity of the offenses and the cumulative nature of Israel's rebellion against God's commands.

you brought foreigners uncircumcised in heart and flesh
The term "foreigners" refers to non-Israelites, and the phrase "uncircumcised in heart and flesh" emphasizes both physical and spiritual impurity. Circumcision was a sign of the covenant between God and Israel, as seen in Genesis 17. The Hebrew word for "uncircumcised" is "עָרֵל" (arel), which signifies being outside the covenant community. This phrase underscores the importance of both outward obedience and inward devotion, as true worship requires a heart aligned with God's will.

into My sanctuary to defile it
The "sanctuary" refers to the holy place where God's presence dwelt among His people. The Hebrew word "מִקְדָּשׁ" (miqdash) signifies a sacred space set apart for worship. Bringing those who were "uncircumcised in heart and flesh" into this space was a direct violation of its sanctity. This act of defilement reflects a profound disrespect for God's holiness and the sacredness of His dwelling place.

My house
This phrase personalizes the sanctuary as God's own dwelling, emphasizing His ownership and the intimate relationship He desires with His people. The Hebrew word "בַּיִת" (bayit) can mean house or household, indicating that the sanctuary was not just a building but a place where God's presence was to be honored and revered.

and offered My food, the fat and the blood
The offerings of "fat and blood" were integral parts of the sacrificial system, as outlined in Leviticus. The Hebrew word for "food" is "לֶחֶם" (lechem), which can also mean bread or sustenance. These offerings were meant to be a pleasing aroma to the Lord, symbolizing atonement and fellowship. By offering them in a defiled state, the people were profaning what was meant to be holy and acceptable to God.

and you broke My covenant
The breaking of the covenant signifies a breach of the solemn agreement between God and Israel. The Hebrew word for "covenant" is "בְּרִית" (berit), which denotes a binding promise or contract. This phrase highlights the seriousness of Israel's unfaithfulness, as the covenant was foundational to their identity and relationship with God. The breaking of this covenant was not just a legal infraction but a relational betrayal, underscoring the need for repentance and restoration.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, tasked with delivering God's messages to the Israelites.

2. Foreigners
Non-Israelites who were not part of the covenant community, specifically those "uncircumcised in heart and flesh."

3. The Sanctuary
The holy place of worship, representing God's presence among His people.

4. The Covenant
The sacred agreement between God and Israel, which included laws and rituals to maintain holiness.

5. Abominations
Actions considered detestable by God, often associated with idolatry and disobedience.

Teaching Points

Holiness of Worship
God's sanctuary is a place of holiness, and those who enter must do so with reverence and purity. This calls for self-examination and repentance.

Covenant Faithfulness
Breaking God's covenant has serious consequences. Believers are called to uphold their commitment to God through obedience and faithfulness.

Spiritual Circumcision
True belonging to God is marked by a heart transformed by His Spirit, not merely external rituals. This transformation should be evident in our lives.

Guarding Against Profanation
We must be vigilant against allowing worldly influences to corrupt our worship and relationship with God. This includes maintaining doctrinal purity and moral integrity.

Inclusivity in Christ
While the Old Testament emphasized separation, the New Testament reveals that through Christ, all are invited to become part of God's family, provided they come with a sincere heart.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does it mean to be "uncircumcised in heart and flesh," and how can we ensure our hearts are aligned with God's will?

2. How does the concept of holiness in the Old Testament sanctuary apply to our lives as temples of the Holy Spirit today?

3. In what ways can we guard against allowing "foreign" influences to profane our worship and relationship with God?

4. How does the New Testament teaching on the inclusion of Gentiles expand our understanding of God's covenant and community?

5. Reflect on a time when you felt convicted about breaking God's covenant. How did you seek restoration, and what did you learn from the experience?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 22
Discusses the requirements for those who may enter the sanctuary and partake in holy offerings, emphasizing purity and holiness.

Jeremiah 9
Speaks about the importance of circumcision of the heart, not just the flesh, as a true sign of belonging to God.

Acts 15
The early church's discussion on the inclusion of Gentiles, highlighting the shift from physical to spiritual circumcision.

1 Corinthians 6
Paul warns against defiling the body, which is the temple of the Holy Spirit, drawing a parallel to the sanctity of God's sanctuary.

Hebrews 10
Emphasizes the new covenant through Christ, who fulfills the law and offers a way to approach God with a pure heart.