King James Version
What Does Ezekiel 16:12 Mean?
“And I put a jewel on thy forehead, and earrings in thine ears, and a beautiful crown upon thine head. forehead: Heb. nose”
Context
10
I clothed thee also with broidered work, and shod thee with badgers' skin, and I girded thee about with fine linen, and I covered thee with silk.
11
I decked thee also with ornaments, and I put bracelets upon thy hands, and a chain on thy neck.
12
And I put a jewel on thy forehead, and earrings in thine ears, and a beautiful crown upon thine head. forehead: Heb. nose
13
Thus wast thou decked with gold and silver; and thy raiment was of fine linen , and silk, and broidered work; thou didst eat fine flour, and honey, and oil: and thou wast exceeding beautiful, and thou didst prosper into a kingdom.
14
And thy renown went forth among the heathen for thy beauty: for it was perfect through my comeliness, which I had put upon thee, saith the Lord GOD.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(12) **A jewel on thy forehead.**—Literally, *a nose-ring on thy nostril, *the custom of the time sanctioning this mode of ornament.
In contrast to God’s kindness and abundant blessing, Israel’s grievous sin is now described (Ezekiel 16:15-34)*. *It is to be remembered that however this extraordinary sin was the natural fruit of neglected grace, it yet was extraordinary. It is not by mere hyperbole that Israel is represented as worse than others. The grace which does not elevate always reacts by directing to a lower depth. (See Excursus at end of this Book on Ezekiel 5:7).
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Ezekiel. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Ezekiel 16:12 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Ezekiel 16:12
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge