Ezekiel 23:2
Son of man, there were two women, the daughters of one mother:
Original Language Analysis
בֶּן
Son
H1121
בֶּן
Son
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
1 of 8
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
אָדָ֑ם
of man
H120
אָדָ֑ם
of man
Strong's:
H120
Word #:
2 of 8
ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)
בְּנ֥וֹת
the daughters
H1323
בְּנ֥וֹת
the daughters
Strong's:
H1323
Word #:
5 of 8
a daughter (used in the same wide sense as other terms of relationship, literally and figuratively)
אֵם
mother
H517
אֵם
mother
Strong's:
H517
Word #:
6 of 8
a mother (as the bond of the family); in a wide sense (both literally and figuratively [like father])
Historical Context
After Solomon's death (930 BC), the united kingdom split under Rehoboam and Jeroboam. The northern kingdom (Israel/Oholah) consisted of ten tribes with its capital at Samaria. The southern kingdom (Judah/Oholibah) retained Jerusalem and the Davidic dynasty.
Questions for Reflection
- How can shared spiritual heritage lead to complacency rather than faithfulness?
- What warning does this passage give about presuming on past blessings while tolerating present compromise?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The 'two women, daughters of one mother' represent Israel (northern kingdom) and Judah (southern kingdom), both descended from the united kingdom under David and Solomon. Their shared origin emphasizes their equal covenant privilege and accountability. The allegory reveals that both kingdoms abandoned their first love despite identical spiritual advantages.