The allegory of the two adulterous sisters is found in the book of Ezekiel, specifically in chapter 23. This passage presents a vivid and symbolic narrative that serves as a prophetic indictment against the kingdoms of Israel and Judah for their spiritual unfaithfulness to God. The sisters, named Oholah and Oholibah, represent Samaria and Jerusalem, respectively.

Oholah and Oholibah: Names and Symbolism

The names Oholah and Oholibah are significant in understanding the allegory. Oholah means "her tent," symbolizing Samaria, the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. Oholibah means "my tent is in her," representing Jerusalem, the capital of the Southern Kingdom of Judah. The use of "tent" in their names alludes to the tabernacle or dwelling place of God, indicating the intended spiritual relationship between God and His people.

Historical Context

The narrative of the two sisters is set against the backdrop of Israel's history, where both kingdoms engaged in idolatry and formed alliances with foreign nations, contrary to God's commandments. The Northern Kingdom, represented by Oholah, entered into political and religious alliances with Assyria, adopting their idolatrous practices. The Southern Kingdom, represented by Oholibah, followed suit, seeking alliances with both Assyria and Babylon, and indulging in similar idolatry.

Ezekiel 23:1-4

"The word of the LORD came to me, saying, 'Son of man, there were two women, daughters of the same mother, who acted like prostitutes in Egypt, engaging in prostitution from their youth. Their breasts were fondled there, and their virgin bosoms caressed. The older was named Oholah, and her sister was Oholibah. They were Mine and gave birth to sons and daughters. As for their names, Oholah is Samaria, and Oholibah is Jerusalem.'"

Spiritual Unfaithfulness and Idolatry

The allegory highlights the spiritual adultery of both kingdoms. Oholah's infidelity is described in her lust for the Assyrians, leading to her downfall and captivity. Ezekiel 23:5-10 details her betrayal and the consequences she faced. Similarly, Oholibah's unfaithfulness is depicted in her desire for the Babylonians, which ultimately leads to Jerusalem's destruction and exile, as described in Ezekiel 23:11-35.

Ezekiel 23:11

"Her sister Oholibah saw this, yet in her lust and prostitution she was more depraved than her sister."

Judgment and Consequences

The prophetic message delivered through the allegory of the two sisters serves as a warning of impending judgment due to their spiritual adultery. God's righteous anger is portrayed as He declares the consequences of their actions. The narrative emphasizes that their alliances and idolatry would lead to their downfall, as foreign nations would turn against them, bringing destruction and captivity.

Ezekiel 23:22-24

"Therefore, Oholibah, this is what the Lord GOD says: 'I will incite your lovers against you, those from whom you turned in disgust, and I will bring them against you from every side—the Babylonians and all the Chaldeans, the men of Pekod, Shoa, and Koa, and all the Assyrians with them, handsome young men, governors and commanders, all of them officers and men of renown, mounted on horses. They will come against you with an army, chariots and wagons, and with a throng of people. They will array themselves against you on every side with buckler, shield, and helmet. I will delegate judgment to them, and they will judge you according to their own standards.'"

Theological Implications

The allegory of the two adulterous sisters serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of spiritual unfaithfulness. It underscores the importance of exclusive devotion to God and the dangers of idolatry and reliance on worldly powers. The narrative calls for repentance and a return to covenant faithfulness, highlighting God's desire for a pure and devoted relationship with His people.