Definition: Moreover thou hast taken thy sons and thy daughters, whom thou hast borne unto me, and these hast thou sacrificed unto them to be devoured. [Is this] of thy whoredoms a small matter,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 16:20. It's a really powerful and disturbing passage that speaks about a serious transgression against God. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Core Story: Ezekiel is speaking to a man (likely a leader or official) who has been indulging in practices called “whoredom.” “Whoredom” means sexual activity outside of marriage, often with the intention of pleasure and gratification. He’s pointing out that this man has taken his sons and daughters – his children – and has sacrificed them to these activities. This is a shocking statement about a profound betrayal of God's trust and love. What it Means in Simple Terms: The verse essentially says: “You have been engaging in sexual relationships with your own children, and you’ve treated them as objects for pleasure rather than as beloved individuals who deserve respect and care.” The Significance & Interpretation: God's Perspective: This is a direct challenge to God. It shows that the man’s actions are not just about him; they’re about violating His divine law and demonstrating a lack of reverence for his creation (his children). Dishonoring God: The act of sacrificing children is seen as an affront to God's holiness and His plan for humanity. It suggests a disregard for the sanctity of life and the value of human beings. A Serious Sin: This verse highlights a very serious sin – idolatry (worshiping anything other than God). It points to a deeper issue of pride, selfishness, and a desire to prioritize personal desires over God’s will. Important Note: The context of this verse is important. Ezekiel was a prophet who witnessed a broken covenant between Israel and God. This passage is a stark reminder that disobedience and idolatry can lead to separation from God and ultimately, destruction. In short, it's a condemnation of a man’s actions that demonstrate a lack of respect for God and his creation. --- Would you like me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Talk about how this verse relates to broader themes in biblical teaching?