Book of Ezekiel - Chapter 16 - Verse 4

The verse 'And as for thy nativity, in the day thou wast born thy navel was not cut, neither wast thou washed in water to supple thee; thou wast not salted at all, nor swaddled at all.' from Ezekiel 16:4 may seem confusing at first glance. However, this verse is a metaphor used by the prophet Ezekiel to describe the humble beginnings of Israel as a nation. The imagery of an unclean newborn baby represents the vulnerable and helpless state of Israel when they were first established. Just as an infant relies on its parents for care and protection, Israel depended on God for their sustenance and guidance from the moment of their birth as a nation. This verse serves as a reminder of the faithfulness of God in caring for his people, even in their most fragile and overlooked state. It also symbolizes the potential for growth and prosperity that comes from being nurtured and loved by a loving and powerful God.

This verse from Ezekiel 16:4 describes the neglected state of Jerusalem when God found and chose her. The image of a newborn baby left unwashed, unswaddled, and unsalted signifies the city's vulnerability and helplessness. In ancient times, not cutting the navel cord, washing the baby in water, salting, and swaddling were all essential practices for ensuring the health and protection of a newborn. Therefore, this passage symbolizes Jerusalem's lack of care and provision, highlighting God's mercy and grace in choosing her despite her condition. The theological interpretation emphasizes God's love for His people, even when they are undeserving. It also serves as a reminder that God's unconditional love and grace are extended to all, regardless of their shortcomings. This verse invites reflection on God's faithfulness and compassion towards His chosen people, even in their most broken and neglected state.