Ezekiel 44:23

Authorized King James Version

And they shall teach my people the difference between the holy and profane, and cause them to discern between the unclean and the clean.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְאֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

עַמִּ֣י

H5971

my people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

יוֹר֔וּ

H3384

And they shall teach

properly, to flow as water (i.e., to rain); transitively, to lay or throw (especially an arrow, i.e., to shoot); figuratively, to point out (as if by

בֵּ֥ין

H996

between (repeated before each noun, often with other particles); also as a conjunction, either...or

קֹ֖דֶשׁ

H6944

the difference between the holy

a sacred place or thing; rarely abstract, sanctity

לְחֹ֑ל

H2455

and profane

properly, exposed; hence, profane

וּבֵין

H996

between (repeated before each noun, often with other particles); also as a conjunction, either...or

טָמֵ֥א

H2931

between the unclean

foul in a religious sense

לְטָה֖וֹר

H2889

and the clean

pure (in a physical, chemical, ceremonial or moral sense)

#10

יוֹדִעֻֽם׃

H3045

and cause them to discern

to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing covenant community contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood covenant community. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
How does this verse's literary context within Ezekiel chapter 44 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How might the original audience's understanding of covenant community differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People

Ezekiel