Ezekiel 20:7
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Ezekiel 20:7
7 Then said I unto them, Cast ye away every man the abominations of his eyes, and defile not yourselves with the idols of Egypt: I am the LORD your God.
Chapter Context
Ezekiel 20 is a prophetic vision chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of fellowship, love, holiness. Written during the Babylonian exile (c. 593-570 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ministered to exiles in Babylon with visions of God's glory and future restoration.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-49: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Ezekiel and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Ezekiel 20:7
7 Then said I unto them, Cast ye away every man the abominations of his eyes, and defile not yourselves with the idols of Egypt: I am the LORD your God.
Analysis
'Then said I unto them, Cast ye away every man the abominations of his eyes, and defile not yourselves with the idols of Egypt: I am the LORD your God.' God's command in Egypt: abandon Egyptian idolatry. 'Abominations of his eyes' refers to idols they viewed/desired. 'Defile not yourselves with the idols of Egypt' requires clean break from Egyptian religion. The covenant formula 'I am the LORD your God' grounds the command in relationship. Exclusive loyalty to Yahweh was prerequisite for deliverance.
Historical Context
Joshua 24:14 and Ezekiel 23:3, 8 confirm that Israel worshiped Egyptian gods during their sojourn. Archaeological evidence shows widespread Egyptian religious practices. God's demand for exclusive worship preceded the exodus, not merely following it. Election requires consecration.
Reflection
- What 'Egyptian idols' must we forsake to fully follow Christ?
- How does God's exclusivity in relationship challenge modern religious pluralism?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- References God: Exodus 16:12, 20:2, Leviticus 11:44
- References Egypt: Ezekiel 20:8, 23:8, Leviticus 18:3
- Parallel theme: Ezekiel 18:15, 18:31, Exodus 20:4, Isaiah 31:7