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Book of Ezekiel - Chapter 16 - Verse 22

16:22
And in all thine abominations and thy whoredoms thou hast not remembered the days of thy youth, when thou wast naked and bare, and wast polluted in thy blood.

Meaning

The verse you are referring to is from Ezekiel 16:22, where the prophet Ezekiel is speaking on behalf of God to the people of Jerusalem, likening their unfaithfulness to God to that of a promiscuous woman. The imagery of being naked and bare symbolizes vulnerability, innocence, and purity that the people enjoyed in their youth, before they turned away from God and engaged in sinful behavior. By mentioning the days of their youth when they were naked and polluted in their own blood, God is reminding the people of their initial state of purity and the depths of degradation to which they have fallen. This serves as a powerful metaphor for the spiritual state of the people, emphasizing their unfaithfulness and betrayal. The verse is a call to repentance, to remember where they came from and to return to a state of purity and faithfulness to God.

Theological Overview

In this verse from Ezekiel 16:22, the theological interpretation centers around the concept of spiritual adultery and idolatry as portrayed through the imagery of prostitution and nakedness. The prophet Ezekiel uses vivid language to describe Israel's unfaithfulness to God as akin to a promiscuous woman who has forgotten her humble beginnings. The mention of being "naked and bare" highlights the vulnerability and shame associated with sin and turning away from God. The phrase "polluted in thy blood" refers to the deep spiritual defilement caused by sin and disobedience. By not remembering the days of innocence and purity, Israel is being confronted with the consequences of her actions. Through this passage, readers are reminded of the importance of staying true to God and living in accordance with His commandments, lest they fall into the trap of sin and spiritual decay.

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