Ezekiel 36:20
And when they entered unto the heathen, whither they went, they profaned my holy name, when they said to them, These are the people of the LORD, and are gone forth out of his land.
Ezekiel 36:20 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse is a reminder to the Israelites of the consequences of their actions when they were exiled to foreign lands. When the Israelites entered the lands of the heathen, they did not uphold the values and laws of the Lord. Instead, they behaved in a way that brought shame and dishonor to God's name. The verse highlights how the Israelites, as the chosen people of the Lord, should have been a shining example of righteousness and obedience. However, by their actions and behavior, they ended up profaning God's holy name in the eyes of the heathen nations. The verse serves as a warning to the Israelites to always strive to live in a way that brings glory and honor to the name of the Lord, no matter where they are or what circumstances they may face.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the theological interpretation focuses on the concept of God's chosen people representing Him faithfully when they are among other nations. The Lord's people are called to live in such a way that reflects His holiness and righteousness to those around them. The term "heathen" or "Gentiles" refers to those outside of the covenant relationship with God, and when the Israelites mingled with them and acted in a sinful manner, they brought dishonor to God's name. This passage emphasizes the importance of believers living in a manner that showcases the character of God to the world. Additionally, a word study on the term "profaned" reveals that it means to treat something sacred as common or unholy, highlighting the seriousness of the Israelites' actions in this context. By associating themselves with the Lord but failing to live according to His commands, they misrepresented God's character to the nations around them. This verse serves as a reminder for believers today to uphold the holiness of God in all aspects of their lives, both individually and corporately.
Ezekiel 36:20 in other translations
American Standard Version
And when they came unto the nations, whither they went, they profaned my holy name; in that men said of them, These are the people of Jehovah, and are gone forth out of his land.
World English Bible
When they came to the nations, where they went, they profaned my holy name; in that men said of them, These are the people of Yahweh, and are gone out of his land.
Douay-Rheims
And when they entered among the nations whither they went, they profaned my holy name, when it was said of them: This is the people of the Lord, and they are come forth out of his land.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And when they entred vnto the heathen, whither they went, they polluted mine holy Name, when they sayd of them, These are the people of the Lord, and are gone out of his land.