We are now in the sixth year of King Jehoiachin’s captivity (see study note on Ezekiel 1:2). Fourteen months have passed since Ezekiel first saw his opening vision.
During most of that time, the prophet had been acting out the sign acts described in Ezekiel 4. These were symbolic actions that showed what would happen to Jerusalem.
Ezekiel 8–9 describes, in visions, the same defilement (moral and spiritual uncleanness) and judgment of Jerusalem that Ezekiel 7 announces in spoken messages. In these visions, God shows Ezekiel the sins of the city and the punishment that would follow.
This time, Ezekiel spoke to the leaders of Judah (literally elders). They had gathered at his house. They were likely hoping to hear a message of encouragement and comfort from the Lord (see also Ezekiel 14:1; 20:1). Instead, they heard a strong rebuke for the sins of the communities they represented.