Ezekiel 16:15 Meaning and Explanation
“But thou didst trust in thine own beauty, and playedst the harlot because of thy renown, and pouredst out thy fornications on every one that passed by; his it was.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Jerusalem betrays God by trusting in her own beauty and using her gifts for harlotry and idolatry with passing strangers.
The Context of Ezekiel 16:15
Jerusalem betrays God by relying on her beauty and committing idolatry.
What Does Ezekiel 16:15 Mean?
The turning point arrives: Jerusalem trusts in her own beauty rather than in God. She forgets that her beauty is God's gift and instead uses it for 'harlotry'—sexual infidelity which symbolizes spiritual infidelity and idolatry. She gives herself indiscriminately to everyone who passes by.
The phrase 'poured out thy fornications' suggests reckless, excessive unfaithfulness. Jerusalem has become promiscuous with her gifts, offering her body (metaphorically her allegiance and worship) to anyone who desires her. She has transformed her beauty—meant to honor God and His covenant—into an instrument of betrayal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ezekiel 16:15
What does Ezekiel 16:15 mean?
Jerusalem betrays God by trusting in her own beauty and using her gifts for harlotry and idolatry with passing strangers.
What is the context of Ezekiel 16:15?
Jerusalem betrays God by relying on her beauty and committing idolatry.