Chapter 8: Vision of the Abominations in the Temple
- The Setting of the Vision
In the sixth year, sixth month, on the fifth day, Yechezkel sits in his home with the elders of Judea before him. Suddenly the hand of G‑d rests upon him. He sees a fiery, radiant figure—below like fire, above like shining chashmal.
- Yechezkel Is Lifted to Jerusalem
A form resembling a hand grabs Yechezkel by a lock of hair and lifts him between Heaven and earth, bringing him in a divine vision to Jerusalem, to the northern inner gate where the image of jealousy stands—an idol that provokes G‑d’s anger.
- The First Abomination
G‑d tells him to look northward. There he sees the idolatrous image again. G‑d says that these abominations drive Him away from His sanctuary—but worse things will be shown.
- The Hidden Chambers of Idolatry
Yechezkel is brought to a wall with a hole. He digs and finds an entrance. Inside, he sees walls covered with creeping creatures, detestable animals, and the idols of Israel, and seventy elders burning incense to them. They claim G‑d does not see them.
- Women Mourning for Tammuz
At the northern gate of G‑d’s House, women sit weeping for Tammuz, a pagan deity. G‑d tells Yechezkel that even greater abominations remain.
- Sun Worship in the Inner Court
Yechezkel sees twenty‑five men standing between the porch and altar, their backs to the Temple of G‑d, bowing eastward toward the sun—a complete reversal from facing the divine presence.
- G‑d’s Furious Response
G‑d declares that these acts are not minor: the people have filled the land with violence and continually provoke Him. Thus He will act in fury, without pity; even if they cry out, He will not listen.
