Translations
Modern
…and they played in Egypt, prostituting themselves from their youth. Their breasts were fondled there, and their virgin bosoms caressed.
Traditional
And they committed whoredoms in Egypt; they committed whoredoms in their youth: there were their breasts pressed, and there they bruised the teats of their virginity.
Literal
And they acted as prostitutes in Egypt; in their youth they were prostitutes; there were squeezed their breasts, and there were pressed the nipples of their virginity.
Latin
…et fornicatæ sunt in Ægypto, in adolescentia sua fornicatæ sunt: ibi subacta sunt ubera earum, et fractæ sunt mammæ pubertatis earum.
Original
Hebrew
English
…and they played in Egypt, prostituting themselves from their youth. Their breasts were fondled there, and their virgin bosoms caressed.
Notes
They became prostitutes by worshiping false gods.
This chapter, like chapter 16, tells the history of the northern and southern kingdoms of Israel and Judah. It does this through an extended metaphor (a comparison that continues through many verses).
In this comparison, Samaria and Jerusalem, the capital cities, are described as two immoral women. The language is strong and direct.
This metaphor shows that their judgment was certain and deserved.
Events
- Prophecies of Ezekielc. 593 BC
Places
Egypt: Ancient nation; Israelites enslaved there; plagues and Exodus
Glossary
Topics
Idolatry: The Jews: Practised, in Egypt Idolatry: Wicked Practices of Licentiousness of