Ezekiel 23:21 Meaning and Explanation
“Thus thou calledst to remembrance the lewdness of thy youth, in bruising thy teats by the Egyptians for the paps of thy youth.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Aholibah's recall of Egypt's idolatry revealed continued willingness to suffer for false powers.
The Context of Ezekiel 23:21
Direct address to Aholibah: she deliberately recalls Egypt's harmful idolatry.
What Does Ezekiel 23:21 Mean?
The prophet addresses the South directly, recalling how she remembered Egypt's lewdness—the spiritual violations of youth. The painful imagery of bruised breasts suggests how deeply Egypt's idolatry had wounded her, yet she longed to return.
This reveals the tragedy of covenant-breaking: the victim remembers past pain and misuse, yet pursues it again. The nostalgia is not for genuine good but for spiritual degradation, showing how covenant-breaking distorts all judgment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ezekiel 23:21
What does Ezekiel 23:21 mean?
Aholibah's recall of Egypt's idolatry revealed continued willingness to suffer for false powers.
What is the context of Ezekiel 23:21?
Direct address to Aholibah: she deliberately recalls Egypt's harmful idolatry.