XVI.
In the magnificent allegory which occupies this chapter, the sin and consequent rejection of Israel is set forth in still stronger terms than in anything which has gone before. There are three main parts of the chapter: the sin (Ezekiel 16:3-34), the punishment (Ezekiel 16:35-52), and the final restoration of Israel (Ezekiel 16:53-63). The extreme aggravation of the sin is shown from the fact that Israel had no original claim upon God’s favour, nor anything to make her attractive — she was merely an exposed and repulsive foundling (Ezekiel 16:3-5) — when God took pity upon, and saved, and cared for her (Ezekiel 16:6-7). Then when she had come of age, He entered into covenant with, and greatly blessed her (Ezekiel 16:8-14); but she proved utterly unfaithful to her covenant — an unfaithful wife; wanton beyond all precedent (Ezekiel 16:15-34). Hence her punishment.