Old Testament
Ezekiel 23:44
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
And that's exactly what happened. Men went to them the way they go to a prostitute. That is how they went to Oholah and Oholibah, those depraved women.
Compare translations
Yet they went in unto her, as they go in unto a woman that playeth the harlot: so went they in unto Aholah and unto Aholibah, the lewd women.
What Ezekiel 23:44 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the prophet Ezekiel describes how people pursued Oholah and Oholibah, two symbolic figures representing cities that turned away from God. The imagery of men approaching them like a prostitute highlights their moral corruption and betrayal. It emphasizes the idea that these cities engaged in unfaithfulness, seeking pleasure and satisfaction outside of their commitment to God. This behavior is likened to infidelity, showing a deep disregard for their relationship with the divine. The language is stark and vivid, illustrating the seriousness of their actions. The message serves as a warning about the consequences of turning away from what is right and true. It reminds us that choices have repercussions, especially when they involve betrayal of trust. Ultimately, this verse calls for reflection on our own commitments and the importance of staying true to our values and beliefs, avoiding paths that lead to moral decay and separation from what is good and just.
How to apply Ezekiel 23:44 to your life
This verse challenges us to examine our own lives for areas where we may be unfaithful to our commitments. It encourages us to stay true to our values and relationships. Reflect on how your choices align with your beliefs and the impact they have on your life and others around you. Choose paths that honor your commitments and integrity, avoiding distractions that lead to moral compromise. Remember, every choice matters in shaping your character.
Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Ruth's story: Three Widows (Ruth 1:1–5)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Ruth

Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Ezekiel 23:44
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Ezekiel 23:44
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 23:44 mean?
Ezekiel 23:44 describes how people pursued Oholah and Oholibah, symbolizing cities that turned away from God. The verse uses the imagery of men approaching a prostitute to illustrate their moral corruption and betrayal of their commitment to God.
What is the meaning of 'lewd women' in Ezekiel 23:44?
The term 'lewd women' in Ezekiel 23:44 refers to Oholah and Oholibah, representing cities that engaged in unfaithfulness and moral corruption. It highlights their actions as shameful and betraying their relationship with God.
How does Ezekiel 23:44 relate to commitment?
Ezekiel 23:44 emphasizes the importance of staying true to commitments by illustrating the consequences of betrayal. It encourages reflection on personal values and the impact of choices on relationships.
What themes are present in Ezekiel 23:44?
Key themes in Ezekiel 23:44 include betrayal, corruption, infidelity, consequences, and commitment. These themes highlight the seriousness of turning away from moral and spiritual obligations.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.