Ezekiel 23:36

The Lord said moreover unto me; Son of man, wilt thou judge Aholah and Aholibah? yea, declare unto them their abominations;

Ezekiel 23:36 (KJV)

Context

This verse belongs to a larger prophetic allegory in Ezekiel in which God addresses the unfaithfulness of two sisters, Aholah and Aholibah. These names symbolize the Northern Kingdom of Israel, often called Samaria, and the Southern Kingdom of Judah, centered in Jerusalem. Ezekiel prophesied during the Babylonian exile, a period that began after the fall of Jerusalem in 586 BC. His ministry brought both judgment and hope to a people living under foreign domination.

Meaning

God addresses Ezekiel as “Son of man” and asks, “wilt thou judge Aholah and Aholibah?” The question is rhetorical, not an invitation for Ezekiel to act as a legal judge. Instead, it is a directive for him to proclaim God’s judgment plainly. The names themselves are symbolic: Aholah means “her tent,” and Aholibah means “my tent is in her.” They picture the idolatry and spiritual adultery that characterized both kingdoms.

The command to “declare unto them their abominations” means to set their detestable deeds in a true light, with all their aggravating circumstances, so that the people might see, loathe, confess, and forsake them. The following verse specifies these abominations: they committed adultery with idols, had blood on their hands, and even sacrificed their children in fire to idols. This context reveals the severity of their covenant unfaithfulness and the justice of God’s judgment.

Biblical connections

Throughout Ezekiel, abominations include idol worship, spiritual adultery, and reliance on foreign nations instead of trusting in God. The prophet’s role here is that of a herald of God’s truth, not a flatterer. He is called to expose sin clearly, a task that requires courage and faithfulness.

Application

Ezekiel 23:36 underscores God’s condemnation of idolatry and unfaithfulness. It serves as a solemn reminder of the consequences that follow when a people turn away from the Lord and pursue false gods and sinful practices. For readers today, it calls for honest self-examination, a willingness to hear hard truths, and a return to wholehearted devotion to God.

Reflection

God’s command to declare abominations is an act of mercy, because it offers the possibility of repentance. The same God who judges also invites His people to turn back to Him, leaving behind every false loyalty and embracing His covenant love.