Old Testament
Ezekiel 23:4
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The older sister was named Oholah, and the younger was Oholibah. They both became mine, and they gave birth to sons and daughters. These are their names: Samaria is Oholah, and Jerusalem is Oholibah.
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And the names of them were Aholah the elder, and Aholibah her sister: and they were mine, and they bare sons and daughters. Thus were their names; Samaria is Aholah, and Jerusalem Aholibah.
What Ezekiel 23:4 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we learn about two sisters, Oholah and Oholibah, who symbolize two cities: Samaria and Jerusalem. Oholah, the older sister, represents Samaria, while Oholibah, the younger, represents Jerusalem. Both cities were under God's care, and they bore children, symbolizing the people of these places. The names reflect their identities and destinies. Oholah and Oholibah's stories illustrate the relationship between God and His people, showing how they strayed from Him. This passage emphasizes the importance of faithfulness and the consequences of turning away from God. It serves as a reminder of the bond between God and His people, urging them to remain loyal and true. The imagery of sisters highlights the close connection and the shared fate of these cities, making their story personal and relatable. Understanding their names and roles helps us grasp the larger narrative of God's love and the need for commitment in our own lives. This passage invites us to reflect on our own relationships and faithfulness.
How to apply Ezekiel 23:4 to your life
Consider your own relationships and commitments. Are you being faithful to those you care about? Just as Oholah and Oholibah represent cities with destinies, your choices shape your life and the lives of those around you. Stay true to your values and connections, nurturing them with care and love. Reflect on how you can strengthen these bonds today.
Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Ezekiel
- Author
- Ezekiel the prophet
- Written
- Around 590 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ezekiel 23:4 mean?
Ezekiel 23:4 describes two sisters, Oholah and Oholibah, representing the cities of Samaria and Jerusalem. This verse illustrates their relationship with God and how both cities strayed from Him, symbolizing the consequences of unfaithfulness.
What is the significance of the names Oholah and Oholibah in Ezekiel 23:4?
The names Oholah and Oholibah signify the identities of Samaria and Jerusalem, respectively. They highlight the close connection between these cities and their shared fate under God's care, emphasizing the importance of loyalty and faithfulness.
How does Ezekiel 23:4 relate to faithfulness?
Ezekiel 23:4 emphasizes faithfulness by showing how Oholah and Oholibah, representing Samaria and Jerusalem, strayed from God. Their story serves as a warning about the importance of remaining loyal in our relationships and commitments.
What lessons can we learn from Ezekiel 23:4?
From Ezekiel 23:4, we learn about the significance of loyalty and the consequences of unfaithfulness. It encourages us to reflect on our own relationships and commitments, urging us to nurture them with care and dedication.
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