What is the meaning of Ezekiel 23:5?

Oholah prostituted herself

• Oholah symbolizes Samaria, the capital of the northern kingdom of Israel (Ezekiel 23:4).

• The Lord pictures her idolatry as prostitution—she exchanged exclusive covenant love for false gods (Hosea 1:2; Jeremiah 3:6).

• This sin was not merely ritual; it was relational betrayal, like the graphic description found earlier in Ezekiel 16:15.

• Idolatry brought moral corruption and social injustice (1 Kings 16:30-33; Amos 2:6-8).

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while she was still Mine

• Despite her rebellion, God insists, “she was still Mine,” highlighting the binding covenant first given at Sinai (Exodus 19:5-6; Deuteronomy 7:6).

• The unfaithfulness hurt most because it happened inside the relationship—much like Hosea remaining married to Gomer (Hosea 3:1).

• The statement underscores divine ownership and steadfast love (Jeremiah 2:3; Psalm 100:3).

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She lusted after her lovers

• Israel wasn’t coerced; she “lusted,” eagerly pursuing alliances and foreign gods (Isaiah 30:1-3; Hosea 7:11).

• The word paints a craving that grew stronger over time (James 1:14-15 shows the pattern of desire-to-sin destruction).

• These “lovers” promised protection and prosperity but led her deeper into bondage (Psalm 106:35-36; Ezekiel 16:26).

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the Assyrians—warriors

• Historically, Israel courted Assyria for military help (2 Kings 15:19-20; 17:3-6).

• Rather than trusting the Lord of Hosts, she trusted “warriors clothed in purple… all of them desirable young men” (Ezekiel 23:6).

• Ironically, the very empire she admired became God’s rod of judgment (Isaiah 10:5-6), carrying the northern tribes into exile (2 Kings 17:23).

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summary

Ezekiel 23:5 exposes Samaria’s heart: she abandoned her covenant Husband while still wearing His name. Longing for the military might and pagan splendor of Assyria, she chose spiritual adultery over faithful dependence. The verse warns that alliances and idols may look attractive, yet they betray and enslave. Our security and identity remain safest when anchored exclusively in the Lord who calls us His own.