Old Testament
Ezekiel 23:32
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, God is speaking about the consequences of actions taken by His people.
- Author
- Ezekiel the prophet
- Written
- Around 590 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
This is what the Lord GOD says: You will drink from your sister's cup — a cup that is deep and wide. You will become an object of mockery and ridicule, because that cup holds so much.
Thus saith the Lord GOD; Thou shalt drink of thy sister’s cup deep and large: thou shalt be laughed to scorn and had in derision; it containeth much.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, God is speaking about the consequences of actions taken by His people. The 'sister' represents another nation that has faced judgment, and now the people will experience similar suffering. The 'cup' symbolizes the overwhelming challenges and hardships they will face. It is described as deep and wide, indicating that the troubles are significant and inescapable. The mockery and ridicule they will endure highlight the shame associated with their choices. This serves as a warning that actions have consequences, and one cannot escape the repercussions of their behavior. The imagery of drinking from a cup suggests that they will fully experience the bitterness of their decisions. Ultimately, this passage emphasizes the importance of being mindful of one's actions and the potential fallout that can arise from them. It’s a reminder that we are responsible for our choices and must be prepared to face the outcomes, whether good or bad, that come from them. Understanding this can help us make wiser decisions in our own lives.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Ezekiel 23:32 to your life
Reflect on your own choices and consider their potential consequences. Are there areas in your life where you might be heading toward trouble? Make a conscious effort to choose wisely and seek guidance when faced with difficult decisions. Remember, your actions shape your future and can impact those around you. Stay aware and proactive in your choices to avoid negative outcomes.
Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ezekiel 23:32 mean?
Ezekiel 23:32 conveys that God's people will face severe consequences similar to those experienced by another nation, symbolized as a 'sister.' The 'cup' represents the significant hardships they will endure, and the mockery indicates the shame associated with their actions.
What is the significance of the 'cup' in Ezekiel 23:32?
In Ezekiel 23:32, the 'cup' symbolizes the overwhelming challenges and suffering that God's people will experience due to their choices. Its description as deep and wide emphasizes the severity and inescapability of these troubles.
What themes are present in Ezekiel 23:32?
Ezekiel 23:32 presents themes of consequences, judgment, mockery, responsibility, and the importance of choices. It serves as a reminder that actions have repercussions and encourages mindfulness in decision-making.
How can I apply the message of Ezekiel 23:32 to my life?
To apply the message of Ezekiel 23:32, reflect on your own decisions and consider their potential outcomes. Strive to make wise choices and seek guidance to avoid negative consequences, understanding that your actions shape your future.
The Book of Ezekiel
Ezekiel 1: Visions of God
The word of the LORD comes to Ezekiel the priest, the son of Buzi, by the river Chebar in the land of the Chaldeans. He sees visions of God as the heavens open. A great cloud comes from the north with a fire flashing continually and brightness around it, and from the midst appears something like glowing metal. From the fire emerge four living creatures, each with the likeness of a man. Each has four faces and four wings, and their legs are straight with feet like a calf's foot, shining like polished brass. Their faces are those of a man, a lion, an ox, and an eagle, and their wings are joined one to another as they move straight forward without turning.
Unlock the full Ezekiel summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Ezekiel — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 48 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Ezekiel summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.