Ezekiel 8:12

"Son of man," He said to me, "do you see what the elders of the house of Israel are doing in the darkness, each at the shrine of his own idol? For they are saying, 'The LORD does not see us; the LORD has forsaken the land.'"

Study Bible

Son of man
This phrase is a frequent address to Ezekiel, emphasizing his humanity and role as a representative of the people. In Hebrew, "ben adam" underscores the prophet's connection to mankind, highlighting the contrast between human frailty and divine authority. It serves as a reminder of Ezekiel's mission to convey God's messages to Israel, emphasizing humility and the weight of his prophetic duty.

have you seen
This rhetorical question invites reflection and awareness. In Hebrew, the verb "ra'ah" implies not just physical sight but also understanding and perception. God is urging Ezekiel to comprehend the gravity of the situation. It challenges the prophet to look beyond the surface and grasp the spiritual implications of the people's actions.

what the elders of the house of Israel
The "elders" were leaders and representatives of the community, expected to guide the people in righteousness. Historically, these figures held significant influence and were responsible for maintaining the covenantal relationship with God. Their actions, therefore, had profound implications for the spiritual state of the nation.

are doing in the darkness
"Darkness" symbolizes secrecy and sin, contrasting with the light of God's truth. In Hebrew thought, darkness often represents evil and separation from God. The elders' actions in the darkness suggest deliberate rebellion and a turning away from divine commandments, highlighting the depth of their spiritual corruption.

each in the chamber of his idol?
The "chamber" indicates a private, hidden place, suggesting that idolatry had infiltrated even the most personal aspects of life. The Hebrew term "ḥeder" can denote an inner room, emphasizing secrecy and intimacy. This phrase reveals the pervasive nature of idolatry, showing how deeply it had taken root in the hearts of the people.

For they are saying
This phrase introduces the rationale behind the elders' actions. It reflects their internal justification and the deceitfulness of sin. The Hebrew verb "amar" conveys not just speech but also the underlying belief system that drives behavior, indicating a profound spiritual delusion.

‘The LORD does not see us
This statement reveals a fundamental misunderstanding of God's nature. It reflects a belief that God is either indifferent or incapable of seeing their actions. In Hebrew, "YHWH" is the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal presence and faithfulness. Their claim contradicts the truth of God's omniscience and His intimate involvement with His people.

the LORD has forsaken the land.’
This declaration shows a loss of faith in God's promises and presence. The Hebrew word "azab" means to leave or abandon, suggesting a belief that God has withdrawn His protection and blessing. This reflects a deep spiritual crisis, as the people have turned to idols, believing that God has deserted them, when in reality, it is they who have turned away from Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the recipient of God's visions and messages, tasked with delivering them to the Israelites.

2. Elders of the House of Israel
These are the leaders and representatives of the Israelite community, who are depicted as engaging in idolatry and secret sins.

3. The Shrine of Idols
This refers to the hidden places where the elders worship idols, symbolizing their spiritual infidelity and rebellion against God.

4. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who sees and knows all, despite the elders' belief that He does not see their actions.

5. The Darkness
Symbolic of secrecy and sin, representing the hidden and corrupt practices of the elders.

Teaching Points

God Sees All
Despite human attempts to hide sin, God is omniscient and aware of all actions and thoughts. This should encourage believers to live transparently before Him.

The Danger of Idolatry
Idolatry is not just the worship of physical idols but can be anything that takes the place of God in our hearts. Believers must examine their lives for modern-day idols.

The Deception of Sin
Sin often leads individuals to believe they can hide from God or that He is indifferent. This is a dangerous deception that leads to spiritual decay.

Accountability in Leadership
The elders' actions remind us that leaders are held to a high standard and must lead with integrity and faithfulness to God.

Repentance and Restoration
Even when we fall into sin, God offers a path to repentance and restoration. Believers should seek His forgiveness and turn back to Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the belief that "The LORD does not see us" affect the behavior of the elders, and how can this mindset be present in our lives today?

2. In what ways can modern-day Christians fall into the trap of idolatry, and how can we guard against it?

3. How does understanding God's omnipresence and omniscience impact your daily walk with Him?

4. What steps can you take to ensure that your actions align with God's will, even when no one else is watching?

5. How can the church hold its leaders accountable to prevent the kind of spiritual corruption seen in Ezekiel 8:12?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 139
This passage emphasizes God's omnipresence and omniscience, countering the elders' belief that God does not see their actions.

Jeremiah 23:24
Reinforces the idea that no one can hide from God, as He fills heaven and earth.

Romans 1:21-23
Describes the folly of idolatry and the darkening of hearts when people turn away from God.