Topical Encyclopedia The term "Image of Jealousy" is derived from a vision experienced by the prophet Ezekiel, as recorded in the Book of Ezekiel, specifically in Ezekiel 8:3-5. This vision is a significant part of Ezekiel's prophetic ministry, which took place during the Babylonian exile, a period marked by spiritual and national crisis for the people of Israel.Biblical Context In Ezekiel 8, the prophet is transported in a vision to Jerusalem, where he is shown various abominations being committed by the Israelites. The vision begins with Ezekiel being lifted by the Spirit and brought to the entrance of the north gate of the inner court of the temple. It is here that he sees the "Image of Jealousy." Ezekiel 8:3-5 states: "He stretched out what looked like a hand and took me by the hair of my head. The Spirit lifted me up between earth and heaven and carried me in visions of God to Jerusalem, to the entrance of the north gate of the inner court, where the idol that provokes to jealousy stood. And there I saw the glory of the God of Israel, like the vision I had seen in the plain. 'Son of man,' He said to me, 'lift up your eyes now to the north.' So I lifted up my eyes to the north, and in the entrance north of the gate of the altar I saw this idol of jealousy." Interpretation and Significance The "Image of Jealousy" is understood to be an idol or representation of a false god that provoked the Lord to jealousy. The presence of such an idol in the temple, the very place dedicated to the worship of Yahweh, was a direct violation of the first two commandments given to Moses on Mount Sinai, which prohibited the worship of other gods and the making of graven images (Exodus 20:3-4). The term "jealousy" in this context refers to God's righteous and covenantal jealousy, which is His zealous protection of His relationship with Israel. The Israelites were chosen to be a holy nation, set apart for the worship of the one true God. The introduction of idolatry into the temple was a profound act of unfaithfulness, akin to spiritual adultery, and it incited God's wrath. Historical and Theological Implications The presence of the "Image of Jealousy" in the temple is indicative of the widespread idolatry and apostasy that had permeated the religious life of Judah prior to the Babylonian exile. This idolatry was not merely a private sin but a public and institutionalized affront to God, leading to severe consequences for the nation. Theologically, the vision serves as a powerful reminder of God's holiness and the seriousness with which He regards idolatry. It underscores the importance of exclusive devotion to God and the dangers of syncretism, where the worship of Yahweh is mixed with pagan practices. Relevance for Today For contemporary believers, the "Image of Jealousy" serves as a cautionary tale against allowing anything to take the place of God in one's life. It challenges Christians to examine their own hearts and lives for modern forms of idolatry, whether they be material possessions, personal ambitions, or cultural influences that detract from wholehearted devotion to God. The vision of the "Image of Jealousy" ultimately points to the need for repentance and the restoration of true worship, themes that are central to the prophetic message of Ezekiel and the broader narrative of Scripture. Nave's Topical Index Ezekiel 8:3,5And he put forth the form of an hand, and took me by a lock of my head; and the spirit lifted me up between the earth and the heaven, and brought me in the visions of God to Jerusalem, to the door of the inner gate that looks toward the north; where was the seat of the image of jealousy, which provokes to jealousy. Nave's Topical Index Library The Image of Jealousy Treatise x. On Jealousy and Envy. A Jealous God Chambers of Imagery Concerning "Good," "Light," "Beautiful," "Desire," "Ecstasy ... Concerning Good, Light, Beauty, Love, Ecstasy, Jealousy, and that ... On the Second Command in the Decalogue The City of Delight An Earnest Warning About Lukewarmness The Division Between East and West Resources What is man / mankind / humanity? | GotQuestions.orgHow do I get the image of God as imposing and angry out of my mind? | GotQuestions.org What is human nature? What does the Bible say about human nature? | GotQuestions.org Image: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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