This lengthy chapter is about the sad history of Samaria and Jerusalem (cf. Ezek. 16:44–46 for another reference to these “sisters”). Oholah refers to northern Samaria and means “her tent.” Oholibah refers to Jerusalem and the southern kingdom and means “my tent in her.” The second name underscores the legitimacy of the Davidic kingdom (“my [i.e., God’s] tent in her”). The discussion accorded Oholah, the older sister, is decidedly brief (23:5–10). Oholibah, the younger sister, is discussed rather extensively (23:11–35). The two sisters are presented simultaneously in verses 36–49, and thus the chapter ends as it began (23:1–4).

Using the metaphor of sexual infidelity, God pictures Samaria and Judah as harlots who have abandoned their true love (the Lord) and prostituted themselves to the…