Ezekiel 6:13

Then you will know that I am the LORD, when their slain lie among their idols around their altars, on every high hill, on all the mountaintops, and under every green tree and leafy oak--the places where they offered fragrant incense to all their idols.

Study Bible

And you will know that I am the LORD
This phrase is a recurring theme throughout the book of Ezekiel, emphasizing the recognition of God's sovereignty and authority. The Hebrew word for "know" is "yada," which implies an intimate, experiential knowledge. This knowledge comes through the judgment and subsequent realization of God's power and holiness. The phrase underscores the ultimate purpose of God's actions: to reveal Himself to His people and affirm His covenant relationship with them.

when their slain lie among their idols
The imagery of the slain lying among their idols is a stark depiction of the consequences of idolatry. The Hebrew word for "idols" is "gillulim," often used in a derogatory sense, meaning "worthless things" or "dung pellets." This highlights the futility and degradation of idol worship. Historically, Israel's idolatry led to spiritual and physical ruin, as seen in the Babylonian conquest. The slain lying among the idols serves as a powerful symbol of the judgment that befalls those who turn away from God.

around their altars
Altars were central to worship practices, both in the worship of Yahweh and in pagan rituals. The presence of altars in this context indicates the perversion of true worship. Instead of being places of communion with God, these altars became sites of idolatrous practices. Archaeological findings have uncovered altars in ancient Israel that were used for pagan worship, confirming the biblical narrative of widespread idolatry.

on every high hill and on all the mountaintops
High places were often chosen for idol worship due to their elevation, which was believed to bring worshippers closer to the divine. The Hebrew term "bamah" refers to these high places, which were frequently condemned by the prophets. The use of high places for idolatry was a persistent issue in Israel's history, as they were often associated with Canaanite religious practices that Israel adopted, contrary to God's commands.

under every green tree and under every leafy oak
Trees, particularly green and leafy ones, were often associated with fertility cults and pagan worship. The phrase "under every green tree" is a common biblical expression denoting widespread idolatry. The lushness of the trees symbolized life and fertility, which idolaters sought to harness through their rituals. This practice was in direct violation of God's command to worship Him alone and not to adopt the religious customs of surrounding nations.

the places where they offered pleasing aromas to all their idols
The offering of pleasing aromas, such as incense, was a significant aspect of ancient worship practices. The Hebrew word "nihoah" refers to a soothing or pleasing aroma, which was intended to appease or attract the favor of the deities. In the context of Israel's idolatry, these offerings were made to false gods, further illustrating the depth of their apostasy. The contrast between offerings made to idols and those made to Yahweh highlights the betrayal of the covenant relationship between God and His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet called by God to deliver messages of judgment and hope to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile.

2. Israelites
The people of God who were in rebellion against Him, engaging in idolatry and other sins.

3. Idols
Objects of worship that the Israelites turned to instead of the one true God, often associated with pagan practices.

4. High Hills and Mountaintops
Common locations for idol worship in ancient Near Eastern cultures, symbolizing places of false worship.

5. Green Tree and Leafy Oak
Natural settings often used for pagan rituals, representing the allure and pervasiveness of idolatry.

Teaching Points

Recognition of God's Sovereignty
The phrase "And you will know that I am the LORD" emphasizes God's ultimate authority and the certainty of His judgment. Believers are reminded to acknowledge God's sovereignty in all aspects of life.

Consequences of Idolatry
The vivid imagery of slain bodies among idols serves as a stark warning about the consequences of turning away from God. Christians are called to examine their lives for modern forms of idolatry, such as materialism or self-reliance.

Call to Repentance
The passage underscores the need for repentance and returning to God. Believers should regularly seek God's forgiveness and strive to align their lives with His will.

Holiness in Worship
The misuse of creation for idol worship contrasts with the call to worship God in spirit and truth. Christians are encouraged to ensure their worship is pure and focused solely on God.

Community Accountability
The communal nature of Israel's sin highlights the importance of accountability within the body of Christ. Believers should support one another in maintaining faithfulness to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of slain bodies among idols in Ezekiel 6:13 challenge our understanding of the seriousness of idolatry?

2. In what ways can modern Christians identify and combat idolatry in their own lives, drawing from the lessons in Ezekiel 6:13?

3. How does the call to destroy places of idol worship in Deuteronomy 12:2-3 relate to the message in Ezekiel 6:13?

4. What role does community accountability play in preventing idolatry, and how can we apply this in our church communities today?

5. How can the recognition of God's sovereignty in Ezekiel 6:13 inspire us to live lives that honor Him in every aspect?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 12:2-3
This passage commands the Israelites to destroy all the places where the nations they dispossess worship their gods, highlighting the ongoing struggle against idolatry.

Jeremiah 3:6
Jeremiah speaks of Israel's idolatry under every green tree, showing the consistency of this sin across prophetic writings.

1 Kings 14:23
Describes how Judah built high places, sacred stones, and Asherah poles on every high hill and under every spreading tree, illustrating the widespread nature of idol worship.