2 Corinthians 6:16 (KJV) reads, "And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people."

This verse from 2 Corinthians is part of a larger passage where the apostle Paul is addressing the Corinthian church. In this particular verse, Paul is highlighting the idea that as believers, we are the temple of God and should not have any agreement with idols.

The overarching theme of this verse is the concept of holiness and the importance of being set apart for God. The language used here is powerful and evokes the imagery of a sacred dwelling place for God. It is a call to purity and separation from anything that goes against God's principles.

The context of this verse is important for a full understanding of its meaning. The Corinthian church was located in a city known for its idol worship and immorality. Paul's letters to the Corinthians address various issues within the church, including divisions, immorality, and false teachings. In this passage, Paul is urging the Corinthians to live in a way that is pleasing to God and to separate themselves from anything that would defile their spiritual temple.

The symbolism in this verse is rich and multi-layered. The temple of God represents the believers themselves, who are indwelt by the Holy Spirit. It is a metaphor for the sacredness and purity that should characterize the lives of Christians. The reference to idols serves as a reminder that we are not to be yoked with anything that is contrary to the worship of the one true God.

The language used in this verse is reminiscent of Old Testament passages that speak of God's presence among his people. The idea of God dwelling in his people and walking among them echoes references in the Old Testament, such as in Leviticus 26:12 and Ezekiel 37:27. This connection serves to reinforce the sacredness of the believer as the dwelling place of God.

The phrase "I will be their God, and they shall be my people" is a covenantal expression that emphasizes the relationship between God and his people. It speaks to the intimacy and fellowship that God desires with those who belong to him. This covenantal language is also found in other parts of the Bible, such as in Jeremiah 31:33 and Hebrews 8:10.

Overall, 2 Corinthians 6:16 is a powerful reminder of the sanctity of the believer as the temple of God. It serves as a call to holiness and separation from anything that would detract from the purity of our relationship with God. In a world full of competing allegiances and temptations, this verse exhorts believers to remain faithful to their identity as God's chosen and sacred dwelling place.