Ezekiel 23:19

“Yet she multiplied her whoredoms, in calling to remembrance the days of her youth, wherein she had played the harlot in the land of Egypt.”

Context:To understand Ezekiel 23:19, it’s important to consider the context of the verse. The book of Ezekiel contains the prophecies of the prophet Ezekiel, who was called by God to deliver messages to the Israelites during their exile in Babylon. The chapter preceding verse 19, Ezekiel 23, describes two sisters, Oholah and Oholibah, who represent the northern kingdom of Israel (Samaria) and the southern kingdom of Judah (Jerusalem), respectively. This chapter employs allegorical language to illustrate the spiritual adultery and idolatry of Israel and Judah.

Symbolic Language:In Ezekiel 23:19, the language used is symbolic. The “she” mentioned refers to Oholibah, representing Jerusalem or the southern kingdom of Judah. The phrase “calling to remembrance the days of her youth” suggests that Judah, despite her current spiritual adultery and idolatry, nostalgically remembers the time when she engaged in such sinful practices during her early years in Egypt.

Spiritual Adultery:The theme of spiritual adultery is prominent throughout the book of Ezekiel. It depicts Israel and Judah’s unfaithfulness to God by turning to false gods and engaging in idolatrous practices. The imagery of harlotry and prostitution is used metaphorically to describe their infidelity and covenant-breaking.

Historical Background:The reference to the land of Egypt in Ezekiel 23:19 points to the time when the Israelites, including the people of Judah, were enslaved in Egypt before their liberation and journey to the Promised Land under the leadership of Moses. During their time in Egypt, the Israelites were exposed to the idolatrous practices of the Egyptians, which influenced some of them to engage in the same sinful behaviours.

Spiritual Lessons:Ezekiel 23:19 serves as a warning and rebuke to the people of Judah for their persistent idolatry and unfaithfulness to God. It emphasises that they have not learned from their past mistakes but continue to pursue sinful practices. The verse reminds them of the consequences of their actions and the need to repent and return to a faithful relationship with God.

• Overall:Ezekiel 23:19 highlights the ongoing spiritual adultery and idolatry of the people of Judah, drawing on their past experiences in Egypt as a reminder of their sinful behaviour. It urges them to repent and turn back to God, forsaking their unfaithfulness.