6th Century BC (During the Babylonian Exile)
The Israelites were in exile in Babylon, grappling with the loss of their homeland and the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem. They were surrounded by Babylonian culture, which was polytheistic and idolatrous.
Babylon was the dominant empire, having conquered Judah and taken many of its people, including Ezekiel, into exile. Nebuchadnezzar was the ruling king of Babylon at this time.
The events of Ezekiel 14 occur in Babylon, where the prophet Ezekiel was among the exiles. Babylon was located in Mesopotamia, near the Euphrates River.
The Israelites in exile were tempted to adopt Babylonian religious practices, including idolatry. This chapter addresses the issue of idolatry and the need for repentance among the exiles.
Ezekiel