Ezekiel 16:38

KJV

And I will judge thee, as women that break wedlock and shed blood are judged; and I will give thee blood in fury and jealousy.

KJV (with Strong's)

And I will judge {H8199} thee, as women that break wedlock {H5003} and shed {H8210} blood {H1818} are judged {H4941}; and I will give {H5414} thee blood {H1818} in fury {H2534} and jealousy {H7068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

I will pronounce on you the sentence that applies to women who commit adultery and murder; I will bring on you the death [decreed for] furious jealousy.

Berean Standard Bible

And I will sentence you to the punishment of women who commit adultery and those who shed blood; so I will bring upon you the wrath of your bloodshed and jealousy.

American Standard Version

And I will judge thee, as women that break wedlock and shed blood are judged; and I will bring upon thee the blood of wrath and jealousy.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 16:38 delivers a profound declaration of divine judgment against Jerusalem, personified as an unfaithful wife. This verse climaxes an extended allegory portraying God's covenant relationship with Israel, His lavish provision, and her subsequent profound betrayal through spiritual harlotry and the horrific shedding of innocent blood. God's response is presented as a righteous, furious, and jealous retribution, mirroring the severity of her covenant infidelity.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezekiel 16 stands as one of the most vivid and graphic allegories in the Old Testament, detailing the history of Jerusalem from its humble origins to its spiritual depravity. God recounts how He found Jerusalem as an abandoned, naked infant, nurtured her, adorned her, and entered into an exclusive marriage covenant with her ([Ezekiel 16:1-14](/ezekiel/16-1 "Ezekiel 16:1-14 - God's Covenant with Jerusalem")). However, she then prostituted herself to other nations and gods, using God's own gifts to build idolatrous shrines and engage in unspeakable acts, including child sacrifice ([Ezekiel 16:15-34](/ezekiel/16-15 "Ezekiel 16:15-34 - Jerusalem's Spiritual Harlotry")). Verse 38 marks a pivotal point, transitioning from the description of her sins to the declaration of the specific judgments that will befall her, directly linking her punishment to the nature of her transgressions. It sets the stage for the detailed execution of this judgment in the verses that follow ([Ezekiel 16:39-43](/ezekiel/16-39 "Ezekiel 16:39-43 - The Execution of Judgment")).

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophet Ezekiel ministered during the Babylonian exile (circa 593-571 BC), addressing the exiles and those remaining in Jerusalem. The historical backdrop for Ezekiel 16:38 is the period leading up to Jerusalem's destruction in 586 BC. Judah, and specifically Jerusalem, had engaged in widespread idolatry, adopting the worship practices of surrounding pagan nations, including the abhorrent practice of child sacrifice to deities like Molech in the Valley of Hinnom ([Jeremiah 32:35](/jeremiah/32-35 "Jeremiah 32:35 - Child Sacrifice to Molech")). Furthermore, Judah had repeatedly formed illicit political alliances with foreign powers (Egypt, Assyria, Babylon) rather than trusting in Yahweh, which the prophets consistently condemned as spiritual adultery, betraying the unique covenant relationship God had established with Israel at Sinai. The judgment described in this verse reflects the impending siege and destruction of Jerusalem by Babylon, which would involve immense bloodshed and devastation.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Ezekiel and the broader prophetic literature. It underscores the theme of **divine judgment** as an inevitable consequence of covenant unfaithfulness and egregious sin, particularly idolatry and bloodshed. The imagery of "breaking wedlock" highlights the theme of **spiritual harlotry** or apostasy, a recurring metaphor for Israel's betrayal of her exclusive devotion to Yahweh, as seen throughout the prophetic books (e.g., [Jeremiah 3](/jeremiah/3 "Jeremiah 3 - Israel's Treachery") and [Hosea 4](/hosea/4 "Hosea 4 - Israel's Idolatry and Prostitution")). Furthermore, the mention of "fury and jealousy" reveals a crucial aspect of God's character: His **righteous jealousy** for His own glory and the purity of His covenant, demonstrating that He will not tolerate His people's worship of other gods ([Exodus 34:14](/exodus/34-14 "Exodus 34:14 - God's Jealous Name")). The verse also implicitly touches on the theme of **retributive justice**, where the punishment precisely fits the crime.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **judge (Hebrew, _shâphaṭ'_):** (H8199) This primitive root signifies the act of pronouncing a verdict, whether favorable or unfavorable. In this context, it implies God's role as the supreme arbiter who will not only discern Jerusalem's guilt but also execute the appropriate sentence. It encompasses the idea of vindication for His own holiness and punishment for transgression.
* **break wedlock (Hebrew, _nâʼaph'_):** (H5003) This primitive root means "to commit adultery." Figuratively, as used here, it denotes apostasy or spiritual infidelity. It powerfully conveys the depth of Jerusalem's betrayal of her covenant relationship with God, likening it to the most intimate and sacred human bond being violated.
* **fury (Hebrew, _chêmâh'_):** (H2534) This word denotes intense heat, and figuratively, anger or wrath. When applied to God, it describes His burning indignation and righteous displeasure against sin. It is not an uncontrolled passion but a holy, zealous response to rebellion and the violation of His covenant.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And I will judge thee,"**: This opening clause establishes God's direct and active role as the sovereign judge. It signifies that the impending calamity is not random misfortune but a deliberate, divinely orchestrated consequence of Jerusalem's actions.
* **"as women that break wedlock and shed blood are judged;"**: This is a powerful simile that defines the nature of Jerusalem's offenses and the standard by which she will be condemned. "Breaking wedlock" refers to spiritual adultery—her rampant idolatry and covenant unfaithfulness. "Shed blood" points to the horrific practice of child sacrifice to pagan deities, as well as the general violence, injustice, and disregard for human life that permeated her society. The judgment for such offenses, according to the Mosaic Law, was often death by stoning or burning, signifying a severe and public retribution.
* **"and I will give thee blood"**: This phrase declares the specific form of God's judgment. The "blood" here is not an offering but a direct, retributive consequence—bloodshed, violence, and death that will be inflicted upon Jerusalem. It signifies the violent destruction of the city and its inhabitants, a direct repayment for the innocent blood she had shed.
* **"in fury and jealousy."**: These terms describe the divine motivation behind the judgment. "Fury" (H2534, _chêmâh_) indicates God's intense, burning wrath against sin and rebellion. "Jealousy" (H7068, _qinʼâh_) is not envy but a righteous, zealous passion for His exclusive honor and the purity of His covenant. God's jealousy is a holy attribute, demonstrating His intolerance for anything that usurps His rightful place as the sole object of His people's worship and devotion.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 16:38 is rich in literary devices that amplify its message of divine judgment. The entire chapter functions as an extended **Allegory**, with Jerusalem personified as an unfaithful wife. This **Personification** allows for the complex relationship between God and His people to be explored through the relatable dynamics of a marriage. The phrase "as women that break wedlock and shed blood are judged" employs a striking **Simile**, directly comparing Jerusalem's fate to that of adulteresses and murderers under the law, thereby emphasizing the severity and justification of her punishment. The terms "break wedlock" and "shed blood" also function as **Metaphors** for spiritual apostasy and child sacrifice/violence, respectively, translating spiritual and moral transgressions into concrete, visceral imagery. Finally, the description of God's response as being "in fury and jealousy" is an instance of **Anthropomorphism**, attributing human emotions to God. However, these are not human failings but rather righteous attributes reflecting His holy indignation and zealous commitment to His covenant and His own glory.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 16:38 profoundly underscores the biblical principle that God is a God of both immense love and unwavering justice. His initial covenant with Jerusalem, described as nurturing a helpless infant into a queen, showcases His boundless grace. Yet, her persistent and egregious betrayal of this covenant, particularly through spiritual harlotry and the horrific practice of child sacrifice, elicits His righteous indignation. This verse reveals that God's holiness demands a response to sin, especially when His covenant people desecrate His name and violate His commands. His "fury and jealousy" are not capricious emotions but a holy zeal for His own honor and the purity of the relationship He established. The judgment declared here serves as a stark reminder of the dire consequences of apostasy and the seriousness with which God views covenant faithfulness.

* [Jeremiah 3:8](/jeremiah/3-8 "Jeremiah 3:8 - Israel's Spiritual Adultery")
* [Hosea 4:12](/hosea/4-12 "Hosea 4:12 - Israel's Idolatry and Prostitution")
* [Exodus 34:14](/exodus/34-14 "Exodus 34:14 - God's Jealous Name")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 16:38, while historically specific, offers timeless and profound lessons for believers today. The imagery of "breaking wedlock" serves as a powerful metaphor for spiritual idolatry, reminding us that anything that takes God's rightful place as supreme in our affections and allegiance constitutes unfaithfulness. This can manifest in subtle ways: placing career, comfort, relationships, material possessions, or even self-image above our devotion to God. The "shedding of blood" can be understood metaphorically as any act that devalues human life or sacrifices moral integrity for personal gain, echoing the societal injustices that plagued ancient Judah. This verse calls us to a radical self-examination, urging us to identify and dismantle any "idols" in our lives and to repent of any "bloodshed"—any action or inaction that diminishes the sacredness of life or justice. It reinforces God's unwavering character: He is both merciful and just, loving yet intolerant of sin. His "fury and jealousy" are not to be feared by the faithful but understood as a holy zeal that protects His honor and calls His people to exclusive devotion. This passage ultimately serves as a powerful call to faithfulness, reminding us that true life and blessing are found only in wholehearted, undivided commitment to our covenant God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what subtle ways might I be "breaking wedlock" with God by placing other loyalties or desires above Him?**
* **What "blood" might I be metaphorically "shedding" in my life or through my actions, by compromising on justice, valuing convenience over compassion, or neglecting the vulnerable?**
* **How does understanding God's "fury and jealousy" as righteous attributes deepen my awe and respect for Him, rather than causing fear?**
* **What practical steps can I take today to renew my covenant faithfulness and ensure God holds the supreme place in my life?**

### FAQ
**What does "break wedlock" mean in the context of Ezekiel 16:38?**

Answer: In this context, "break wedlock" (Hebrew, _nâʼaph'_) is a powerful metaphor for spiritual adultery. It signifies Jerusalem's profound betrayal of her exclusive covenant relationship with God (Yahweh) by engaging in idolatry—worshiping other gods and forming illicit political alliances with pagan nations. Just as a wife's infidelity shatters the marriage bond, Israel's idolatry shattered her unique and intimate relationship with the one true God, who had chosen and cherished her as His bride. This theme of Israel's unfaithfulness as harlotry is a recurring motif throughout the Old Testament prophetic books, such as [Jeremiah 3](/jeremiah/3 "Jeremiah 3 - Israel's Spiritual Adultery") and [Hosea 4](/hosea/4 "Hosea 4 - Israel's Idolatry and Prostitution").

**What is the "blood" that God promises to "give" Jerusalem in this verse?**

Answer: The "blood" that God promises to "give" Jerusalem in fury and jealousy refers to violent retribution and bloodshed upon the city and its inhabitants. It is a direct, retributive judgment for two primary offenses: first, the actual shedding of innocent blood through practices like child sacrifice to pagan deities (e.g., Molech), and second, the general violence, injustice, and moral corruption that characterized Jerusalem's society. Therefore, God's promise to "give thee blood" signifies that Jerusalem will experience the same kind of violent death and devastation that she inflicted upon others and that she deserved for her heinous sins. This judgment was historically fulfilled in the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians.

**Is God's "jealousy" (H7068, _qinʼâh'_) a negative attribute in this passage?**

Answer: No, God's "jealousy" in this context is not a negative human emotion like envy or insecurity. Instead, it is a holy and righteous attribute, signifying His zealous passion for His own exclusive honor and the purity of His covenant relationship with His people. God is "jealous" because He is the one true God, and He will not tolerate His people's worship of other gods or their spiritual infidelity. His jealousy is a protective zeal for His unique status and the integrity of His covenant, ensuring that His people remain faithful to Him alone. This divine jealousy is rooted in His holiness and His love for His people, as seen in passages like [Exodus 34:14](/exodus/34-14 "Exodus 34:14 - God's Jealous Name") where He declares His name to be "Jealous."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 16:38 vividly portrays the devastating consequences of covenant unfaithfulness and spiritual harlotry, culminating in God's righteous judgment poured out "in fury and jealousy." While this judgment fell upon unfaithful Jerusalem under the Old Covenant, it profoundly foreshadows the ultimate fulfillment of God's righteous judgment in Christ. Humanity, in its fallen state, has collectively broken wedlock with God through idolatry and shed innocent blood through sin, incurring divine wrath. However, Jesus Christ, the perfect Bridegroom, willingly absorbed the "fury and jealousy" of God's judgment on the cross. He bore the penalty for our spiritual adultery and the shedding of innocent blood, becoming the ultimate sacrifice that cleanses us from all unrighteousness ([Isaiah 53:5](/isaiah/53-5 "Isaiah 53:5 - Christ's Suffering for Our Sins"); [Romans 5:8-9](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8-9 - God's Love in Christ's Death")). Through His atoning work, believers are reconciled to God, no longer condemned as unfaithful harlots but cleansed and presented as a pure bride to Christ, without stain or wrinkle ([Ephesians 5:25-27](/ephesians/5-25 "Ephesians 5:25-27 - Christ's Love for the Church")). The judgment poured out on Jerusalem served as a warning, but in Christ, God's righteous wrath is satisfied, paving the way for grace and the promise of an eternal, faithful covenant with His redeemed people, the Church, His beloved bride ([Revelation 19:7-8](/revelation/19-7 "Revelation 19:7-8 - The Marriage Supper of the Lamb")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Leviticus 20:10

¶ And the man that committeth adultery with [another] man's wife, [even he] that committeth adultery with his neighbour's wife, the adulterer and the adulteress shall surely be put to death.

Genesis 9:6

Whoso sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man.

Jeremiah 18:21

Therefore deliver up their children to the famine, and pour out their [blood] by the force of the sword; and let their wives be bereaved of their children, and [be] widows; and let their men be put to death; [let] their young men [be] slain by the sword in battle.

Zephaniah 1:17

And I will bring distress upon men, that they shall walk like blind men, because they have sinned against the LORD: and their blood shall be poured out as dust, and their flesh as the dung.

Ezekiel 16:36

Thus saith the Lord GOD; Because thy filthiness was poured out, and thy nakedness discovered through thy whoredoms with thy lovers, and with all the idols of thy abominations, and by the blood of thy children, which thou didst give unto them;

Matthew 1:18

¶ Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.

Matthew 1:19

Then Joseph her husband, being a just [man], and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily.