Ezekiel 20:8
But they rebelled against me, and would not hearken unto me: they did not every man cast away the abominations of their eyes, neither did they forsake the idols of Egypt: then I said, I will pour out my fury upon them, to accomplish my anger against them in the midst of the land of Egypt.
Ezekiel 20:8 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the Book of Ezekiel, God is expressing his disappointment with the people of Israel for their disobedience and idolatry. The Israelites, despite being delivered from slavery in Egypt and receiving divine guidance, chose to rebel against God by clinging to the abominations and idols of Egypt. This verse serves as a warning of the consequences of turning away from God and disobeying his commandments. The mention of God pouring out his fury and anger upon the people of Israel emphasizes the severity of their actions and the need for repentance. It highlights the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God's will to avoid facing his righteous judgement. By including this verse in the collection of biblical texts, readers are reminded of the consequences of straying from a faithful relationship with God and the importance of staying true to his teachings.
Theological Overview
This verse from Ezekiel highlights the persistent rebellion of the Israelites against God. The phrase "they rebelled against me, and would not hearken unto me" emphasizes the direct disobedience of the people towards God's commands. The mention of not casting away the abominations of their eyes and not forsaking the idols of Egypt indicates the people's continued inclination towards sinful practices and idol worship. The consequences of their actions are severe, as God declares His intention to pour out His fury upon them to accomplish His anger. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God, as well as the consequences of turning away from Him.
Ezekiel 20:8 in other translations
American Standard Version
But they rebelled against me, and would not hearken unto me; they did not every man cast away the abominations of their eyes, neither did they forsake the idols of Egypt. Then I said I would pour out my wrath upon them, to accomplish my anger against them in the midst of the land of Egypt.
World English Bible
But they rebelled against me, and would not listen to me; they each didn’t throw away the abominations of their eyes, neither did they forsake the idols of Egypt. Then I said I would pour out my wrath on them, to accomplish my anger against them in the midst of the land of Egypt.
Douay-Rheims
But they provoked me, and would not hearken to me: they did not every man cast away the abominations of his eyes, neither did they forsake the idols of Egypt: and I said I would pour out my indignation upon them, and accomplish my wrath against them in the midst of the land of Egypt.
Geneva Bible (1599)
But they rebelled against me, and would not heare me: for none cast away the abominations of their eyes, neither did they forsake the idoles of Egypt: then I thought to powre out mine indignation vpon them, and to accomplish my wrath against them in the mids of the land of Egypt.