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Ezekiel 37:23

Neither shall they defile themselves any more with their idols, nor with their detestable things, nor with any of their transgressions: but I will save them out of all their dwellingplaces, wherein they have sinned, and will cleanse them: so shall they be my people, and I will be their God.

Ezekiel 37:23 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse speaks to the promise of salvation and redemption for those who turn away from their sinful ways and idols. It emphasizes that through repentance and a rejection of detestable things and transgressions, individuals can be saved by God and cleansed of their sins. The verse highlights the transformative power of God's love and forgiveness, stating that those who choose to follow Him will be His people and He will be their God. The image of cleansing and salvation is depicted as a process that involves being saved from all dwelling places of sin and being purified by God. Ultimately, the verse conveys a message of hope and redemption for those who seek to live in accordance with God's will and turn away from their sinful ways.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the concept of defilement due to idol worship is addressed. The people are instructed not to defile themselves anymore with idols, detestable things, or any of their transgressions. This points to a theological understanding that idol worship is seen as a defilement of both body and spirit. The verse also speaks of salvation and cleansing; the promise that God will save the people from their sins and cleanse them from all impurities. This highlights the theme of redemption and forgiveness, showing God's desire to restore His relationship with His people. The mention of dwellingplaces where they have sinned emphasizes the idea that sin can occur anywhere, and God is capable of saving His people no matter where they are. Ultimately, this verse reinforces the covenant between God and His people, stating that they will be His people and He will be their God, reflecting the intimate and personal nature of the relationship between God and His followers.

Ezekiel 37:23 in other translations

American Standard Version

neither shall they defile themselves any more with their idols, nor with their detestable things, nor with any of their transgressions; but I will save them out of all their dwelling-places, wherein they have sinned, and will cleanse them: so shall they be my people, and I will be their God.

World English Bible

neither shall they defile themselves any more with their idols, nor with their detestable things, nor with any of their transgressions; but I will save them out of all their dwelling places, in which they have sinned, and will cleanse them: so shall they be my people, and I will be their God.

Douay-Rheims

Nor shall they be defiled any more with their idols, nor with their abominations, nor with all their iniquities: and I will save them out of all the places in which they have sinned, and I will cleanse them: and they shall be my people, and I will be their God.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Neither shall they bee polluted any more with their idoles, nor with their abominations, nor with any of their transgressions: but I will saue them out of all their dwelling places, wherein they haue sinned, and will clense them: so shall they be my people, and I will be their God.