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. This period was marked by a struggle to maintain their identity and faith amidst a foreign culture.
Babylon was the dominant empire, having conquered Jerusalem and taken many Israelites into exile. The Babylonian king at the time was likely Nebuchadnezzar II.
The vision takes place in Jerusalem, specifically in the Temple, although Ezekiel himself is physically in Babylon by the River Chebar.
The Israelites were struggling with idolatry, as depicted in the vision of the abominations in the Temple. This reflects a departure from the worship of Yahweh alone, influenced by surrounding pagan practices.
Ezekiel