“And he said to me, 'Son of man, do you see what they are doing, the great abominations that the house of Israel are committing here, to drive me far from my sanctuary? But you will see still greater abominations.'”
Ezekiel 8:6
Summary
In Ezekiel chapter 8, the prophet Ezekiel experiences a vision in which he is transported to Jerusalem. There, he is shown a series of abominable idolatries being committed within the temple. Ezekiel first sees an idol provoking jealousy at the north gate. This image is contrasted with the glory of God, which still fills the temple. As the vision progresses, Ezekiel witnesses greater abominations inside, such as elders worshiping idols and women mourning for the pagan god Tammuz in a ritualistic manner. Finally, he sees men worshiping the sun, turning their backs to the temple, symbolizing the people's complete spiritual adultery and rebellion against God.