Ezekiel 20:39 Meaning and Explanation
“As for you, O house of Israel, thus saith the Lord GOD; Go ye, serve ye every one his idols, and hereafter also, if ye will not hearken unto me: but pollute ye my holy name no more with your gifts, and with your idols.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God gives Israel permission to serve idols, but demands they stop profaning His holy name.
The Context of Ezekiel 20:39
God demands Israel cease profaning His holy name, even if they choose idolatry.
What Does Ezekiel 20:39 Mean?
This verse expresses a final judgment: if Israel will not hear God, let them serve their idols—but let them stop hypocritically mixing idol worship with offerings to God. The permission is ironic and severe: God is essentially saying, make your choice final. Either worship God or worship idols, but not both.
The emphasis falls on ceasing to profane God's holy name. God's reputation and holiness are what matter most. Israel's half-hearted syncretism—claiming to honor God while serving idols—was particularly offensive to God's holiness. Complete rejection is preferable to pretended loyalty.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ezekiel 20:39
What does Ezekiel 20:39 mean?
God gives Israel permission to serve idols, but demands they stop profaning His holy name.
What is the context of Ezekiel 20:39?
God demands Israel cease profaning His holy name, even if they choose idolatry.