Ezekiel 16:31 — English ERV 2006 - Only For Website
God said, "But you were not exactly like a prostitute. You built your mounds at the head of every road, and you built your places for worship at every street corner. You had sex with all those men, but you did not ask them to pay you like a prostitute does.
What Does This Mean?
This verse from Ezekiel criticizes Jerusalem for making worship places everywhere, even in busy streets, but doing it in a way that shows disdain for payment or reward. It's like saying Jerusalem is acting like a prostitute but refusing to be paid, which is unusual.
Explained for Children
Imagine if you set up lemonade stands everywhere on your block, but you didn't want anyone to pay for your lemonade. That's kind of what this verse is talking about, but with grown-up stuff.
Historical Background
Ezekiel, a prophet, wrote this around 593-571 BCE. The message is directed at Jerusalem, representing the people of Israel, during a time when they were engaging in practices that were displeasing to God, including idol worship.
Living It Out Today
Today, this might relate to someone who loudly proclaims their beliefs or values in every situation, but does so in a way that is self-righteous and unwilling to listen or adapt to others, much like someone building a stage for themselves in every public place.
It means the people were acting like prostitutes, but they were refusing to be paid, which shows a twisted attitude towards their own behavior.
How does this relate to idol worship?
This verse criticizes the people for setting up places of worship everywhere, but doing so in a way that is more about self-promotion than true devotion, akin to idol worship.
What is the significance of the 'high place'?
High places were elevated areas used for worship, often associated with idolatry in the Old Testament, symbolizing the people's departure from true worship.
How does this verse reflect on the moral condition of Jerusalem?
It shows that Jerusalem was engaging in practices that were morally corrupt and contrary to God's will, as they were placing their own desires above God's commandments.
