◄ Ezekiel 13 ►
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Reproof of False Prophets (Micah 2:6–11) 1Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying, 2“Son of man, prophesy against the prophets of Israel who are now prophesying. Tell those who prophesy out of their own imagination: Hear the word of the LORD! 3This is what the Lord GOD says: Woe to the foolish prophets who follow their own spirit yet have seen nothing. 4Your prophets, O Israel, are like foxes among the ruins. 5You did not go up to the gaps or restore the wall around the house of Israel so that it would stand in the battle on the Day of the LORD. 6They see false visions and speak lying divinations. They claim, ‘Thus declares the LORD,’ when the LORD did not send them; yet they wait for the fulfillment of their message. 7Haven’t you seen a false vision and spoken a lying divination when you proclaim, ‘Thus declares the LORD,’ even though I have not spoken? 8Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: Because you have uttered vain words and seen false visions, I am against you, declares the Lord GOD. 9My hand will be against the prophets who see false visions and speak lying divinations. They will not belong to the council of My people or be recorded in the register of the house of Israel, nor will they enter the land of Israel. Then you will know that I am the Lord GOD. 10Because they have led My people astray, saying, ‘Peace,’ when there is no peace, and whitewashing any flimsy wall that is built, 11tell those whitewashing the wall that it will fall. Rain will come in torrents, I will send hailstones plunging down, and a windstorm will burst forth. 12Surely when the wall has fallen, you will not be asked, ‘Where is the whitewash with which you covered it?’ 13Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: In My wrath I will release a windstorm, and in My anger torrents of rain and hail will fall with destructive fury. 14I will tear down the wall you whitewashed and level it to the ground, so that its foundation is exposed. The city will fall, and you will be destroyed within it. Then you will know that I am the LORD. 15And after I have vented My wrath against the wall and against those who whitewashed it, I will say to you: ‘The wall is gone, and so are those who whitewashed it— 16those prophets of Israel who prophesied to Jerusalem and saw a vision of peace for her when there was no peace, declares the Lord GOD.’ Reproof of False Prophetesses 17Now, O son of man, set your face against the daughters of your people who prophesy out of their own imagination. Prophesy against them 18and tell them that this is what the Lord GOD says: Woe to the women who sew magic charms on their wrists and make veils for the heads of people of every height, in order to ensnare their souls. Will you ensnare the souls of My people but preserve your own? 19You have profaned Me among My people for handfuls of barley and scraps of bread. By lying to My people who would listen, you have killed those who should not have died and spared those who should not have lived. 20Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: See, I am against the magic charms with which you ensnare souls like birds, and I will tear them from your arms. So I will free the souls you have ensnared like birds. 21I will also tear off your veils and deliver My people from your hands, so that they will no longer be prey in your hands. Then you will know that I am the LORD. 22Because you have disheartened the righteous with your lies, even though I have caused them no grief, and because you have encouraged the wicked not to turn from their evil ways to save their lives, 23therefore you will no longer see false visions or practice divination. I will deliver My people from your hands. Then you will know that I am the LORD.” Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Ezekiel 13 Summary Reproof of False Prophets Verses 1–3 – A Word Against Self-Styled Prophets The Lord commands Ezekiel to confront prophets who are speaking “out of their own imagination.” They claim divine insight, yet God calls them “foolish” because they follow only their own spirit and “have seen nothing.” The opening verses set the tone: God will not tolerate counterfeit messages that confuse His people. Verses 4–7 – Jackals in Ruins These impostors are likened to jackals scavenging among the ruins—creatures that take advantage of a broken landscape but never repair it. They have not “gone up into the gaps or built a wall” to protect the house of Israel. Their visions are empty, their words unreliable, and God exposes the sham by asking, “Have you not declared a false vision and spoken a lying divination?” Verses 8–9 – God’s Hand Against Them Because they mislead, the Lord announces decisive judgment: “My hand will be against the prophets who see false visions.” Their names will be erased from Israel’s registry; they will neither belong to the council of God’s people nor re-enter the land after exile. Verses 10–12 – The Collapsing Wall These prophets have “whitewashed” a flimsy wall. It looks solid, yet one storm—hail, wind, and rain—will bring it down. The collapse will expose both the faulty wall and the dishonest whitewash, revealing that the real problem was always structural, not cosmetic. Verses 13–16 – Exposing the Whitewash God Himself sends a torrent to smash the wall. When it falls, people will ask, “Where is the whitewash you applied?” The Lord clarifies the metaphor: the false prophets propped up a lie that Jerusalem would stand unscathed, but their assurances will crumble with the city’s walls. Verses 17–19 – Condemning the Magic Charms Attention shifts to women who practice superstition. They sew magic bands for wrists and make veils of varied length, all to control lives for profit, even for “handfuls of barley.” By perverting justice they “slay souls that should not die” and spare those who should not live—upending God’s moral order. Verses 20–23 – Deliverance for the Oppressed The Lord will tear off the women’s charms, rescue the captives, and stop the deceivers from “ensnaring My people like birds.” When their lies cease, the people will “know that I am the LORD,” and the oppressed will be set free. Ezekiel 13 is a powerful chapter where God speaks through the prophet Ezekiel, addressing the problem of false prophecy in Israel. God vividly exposes the lies of the false prophets and illustrates the destructive consequences that follow their misleading words. The chapter stands as a timeless warning against deception and a call to embrace and uphold the truth. Historical Setting Ezekiel delivered this oracle around 592 – 591 BC while exiled in Babylon with other Judean captives. Back in Jerusalem, national morale was shaky after the first deportation (597 BC), yet many prophets predicted a swift return and promised peace. Their message contradicted Jeremiah (Jeremiah 14:13–16) and Ezekiel, both of whom warned that Jerusalem would fall if the nation did not repent. Who Were the False Prophets? • Some remained in Judah, feeding patriotic hopes that God would never let Jerusalem collapse (Jeremiah 23:16–17). • Others already in exile told fellow captives that their displacement would be short (Ezekiel 11:3). The prophets were not necessarily outsiders; many had priestly lineage or royal connections. Social credibility amplified the danger of their words. “Jackals Among Ruins”: Why That Image? Jackals typically occupy ruins to find shelter and scavenging opportunities. By calling false prophets “jackals,” God highlights three traits: 1. Opportunistic—using chaos to elevate themselves. 2. Destructive—tearing down what remains rather than rebuilding it. 3. Noisy at night—symbolic of misleading chatter that disturbs rather than comforts (Isaiah 56:10–11). Meaning of the “Whitewashed Wall” Whitewash (Hebrew: tâd) could cosmetically brighten mud-brick structures, but it offered zero structural support. Prophets gave upbeat proclamations—“Peace!”—painting over spiritual decay. Jesus borrowed this image when denouncing hypocritical leaders as “whitewashed tombs” (Matthew 23:27). Women Who Sew Magic Bands Ancient Near Eastern amulets—knotted cords, embroidered pouches, small veils—were thought to channel supernatural power. Archaeology has recovered bone and shell charms inscribed with names of deities. In Ezekiel 13 these women commercialized superstition, trading protective charms for food. Their practice violated Deuteronomy 18:10–12: “Let no one be found among you… who practices divination.” Archaeological Notes • Mud-brick walls at Tell Arad and Lachish show white gypsum coating for weatherproofing—useful for light rain but useless against a gale. • Excavations in Babylon’s exilic quarters uncovered small terracotta figurines used as household talismans. Such items likely parallel the “bands” and veils of verse 18. Scripture Connections • Jeremiah 6:13–15: leaders “dress the wound” of the people lightly, saying “Peace, peace” when there is no peace. • Micah 3:5–7: prophets who “cry, ‘Peace!’ when they have something to eat.” • Acts 8:9–24: Simon the sorcerer offers spiritual favors for money, echoing Ezekiel’s condemnation of profit-driven magic. • 2 Peter 2:1–3: “false teachers… will exploit you with deceptive words,” assuring readers that judgment swiftly follows, just as in Ezekiel 13. Practical Takeaways 1. Substance over style: Spiritual leadership must build with truth, not cosmetic optimism. 2. Accountability: God holds influencers responsible for the effect of their words on community faith and morality. 3. Discernment: Emotional appeal or popular support does not authenticate a message; alignment with God’s revealed word does. 4. Liberation: God intervenes to free those trapped by lies, superstition, or manipulation. Messianic Echoes While the chapter itself focuses on judgment, it anticipates a Shepherd who speaks only what He hears from the Father (John 12:49). The contrast between false guidance and Christ’s true prophecy underscores why Jesus is called “the faithful and true witness” (Revelation 3:14). Conclusion Ezekiel 13 stands as a timeless warning against spiritual counterfeits and a promise that God defends truth-seekers. When deceptive walls fall, the Lord’s integrity remains—offering real refuge to all who hear and obey His authentic voice. Connections to Additional Scriptures Matthew 7:15 Beware of false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. 1 John 4:1 Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. 2 Timothy 4:3-4 For the time will come when men will not tolerate sound doctrine, but with itching ears they will gather around themselves teachers to suit their own desires. So they will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. Teaching Points Condemnation of False Prophets Ezekiel 13:2-3 states, Son of man, prophesy against the prophets of Israel who are now prophesying. Say to those who prophesy out of their own imagination: ‘Hear the word of the LORD! This is what the Lord GOD says: Woe to the foolish prophets who follow their own spirit and have seen nothing!’ God condemns those who speak from their own imagination rather than His truth. False Visions and Divination In verses 6-7, God highlights the false visions and divinations of these prophets, emphasizing that they have not been sent by Him. Their visions are false and their divinations a lie. They say, ‘The LORD declares,’ when the LORD has not sent them; yet they hope that their words will be fulfilled. Consequences of Deception Verses 10-11 illustrate the consequences of false prophecy, comparing it to a flimsy wall built with untempered mortar. Because they have led My people astray, saying, ‘Peace,’ when there is no peace, and because when a flimsy wall is built, they cover it with whitewash, tell those who whitewash it that it will fall. God’s Judgment God declares His judgment on these false prophets in verses 13-14, Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: In My wrath I will unleash a windstorm, and in My anger torrents of rain and hail will fall with destructive fury. I will tear down the wall you have whitewashed and level it to the ground, so that its foundation is exposed. Practical Applications Discernment in Teaching Be vigilant in discerning the teachings you receive. Test them against the Word of God to ensure they align with His truth. Seek God’s Truth Prioritize seeking God’s truth through personal Bible study and prayer, rather than relying solely on others' interpretations. Guard Against Deception Be aware of the potential for deception in spiritual matters and guard your heart and mind with the truth of Scripture. Encourage Accountability Encourage accountability among spiritual leaders to ensure they are teaching and living according to God’s Word. People 1. The Prophets of Israel These are the false prophets who are misleading the people of Israel. Ezekiel 13:2 states, "Son of man, prophesy against the prophets of Israel who are now prophesying. Say to those who prophesy out of their own imagination: 'Hear the word of the LORD!'" The Hebrew term for prophet, "נָבִיא" (navi), indicates someone who claims to speak on behalf of God, but in this context, they are speaking from their own imagination. 2. The Daughters of Your People These refer to the women who are practicing false prophecy. Ezekiel 13:17 says, "Now, son of man, set your face against the daughters of your people who prophesy out of their own imagination. Prophesy against them." The Hebrew word "בָּנוֹת" (banot) means daughters, indicating that these women are part of the community but are leading others astray with their false visions. Places 1. Israel The chapter addresses the false prophets of Israel, indicating that the primary audience and context are within the nation of Israel. The Hebrew root for Israel is "יִשְׂרָאֵל" (Yisra'el), meaning "God contends" or "one who struggles with God." 2. Walls In Ezekiel 13:10-15, the false prophets are compared to those who build flimsy walls and cover them with whitewash. This metaphorical "place" represents the false sense of security and the deceptive teachings that the prophets provide. The Hebrew word for wall is "קִיר" (qir). 3. Gaps in the Wall In verse 5, the prophets are criticized for not repairing the gaps in the wall, symbolizing their failure to protect and guide the people properly. The Hebrew term for gap is "פֶּרֶץ" (peretz). Events 1. Condemnation of False Prophets The chapter begins with a message from the LORD to Ezekiel, instructing him to prophesy against the false prophets of Israel. These prophets are described as those who "prophesy out of their own imagination" (Ezekiel 13:2). The Hebrew term used here, "leb," refers to the heart or mind, indicating that these prophecies are not divinely inspired but rather originate from the prophets' own thoughts and desires. 2. False Visions and Divinations The LORD declares that these false prophets have seen "false visions" and uttered "lying divinations" (Ezekiel 13:6). The Hebrew word for "false" is "shav," which can mean deceitful or worthless, emphasizing the lack of truth and value in their messages. These prophets claim to speak for God, but He has not sent them. 3. No Place in the Assembly of Israel God pronounces judgment on the false prophets, stating that they will not be part of the assembly of His people, nor will they be recorded in the register of the house of Israel (Ezekiel 13:9). This exclusion signifies a complete disassociation from the community and the blessings of God's covenant. 4. Whitewashing the Wall The LORD uses the metaphor of a flimsy wall being whitewashed to describe the false prophets' actions. They have built a weak spiritual structure and covered it with deceptive assurances of peace (Ezekiel 13:10). The Hebrew word "tapuach" for whitewash implies a superficial covering that hides the true condition underneath. 5. God's Judgment on the Wall God promises to bring down the wall with a storm of His wrath, symbolizing the inevitable collapse of the false security provided by the prophets (Ezekiel 13:13-14). The destruction of the wall represents the exposure and failure of their deceitful prophecies. 6. Condemnation of Female Prophets The chapter also addresses women who practice false prophecy, using magic charms and veils to ensnare people (Ezekiel 13:18). These women are accused of profaning God's name for personal gain, leading people astray with their lies. 7. God's Deliverance of His People God declares that He will rescue His people from the clutches of these false prophets and prophetesses. He will tear the veils and charms from their hands, freeing the people from their deception (Ezekiel 13:20-21). This act of deliverance underscores God's commitment to truth and justice. 8. Reaffirmation of God's Sovereignty The chapter concludes with a reaffirmation of God's sovereignty and His intention to restore the truth among His people. The false prophets have disheartened the righteous and encouraged the wicked, but God will rectify these wrongs, ensuring that His people know that He is the LORD (Ezekiel 13:22-23). Lessons from Ezekiel 13 1. Beware of False Prophets Ezekiel 13 warns us about the dangers of false prophets who lead people astray with their own imaginations. "Woe to the foolish prophets who follow their own spirit and have seen nothing" (Ezekiel 13:3). It's a reminder to stay grounded in the truth of Scripture and to test everything against the Word of God. In a world full of voices, discernment is key. 2. The Importance of Truth The chapter emphasizes the need for truth in our lives. False prophets were "prophesying out of their own imagination" (Ezekiel 13:2), which led to destruction. Truth is foundational, and as believers, we are called to speak and live by it. Let’s be diligent in seeking God’s truth and sharing it with others. 3. Accountability Before God Ezekiel 13 shows that God holds us accountable for our actions and words. The false prophets were held responsible for misleading the people. "Because you have disheartened the righteous with your lies" (Ezekiel 13:22), God’s justice is a reminder that our actions have consequences, and we must strive to live righteously. 4. The Power of God’s Word The chapter highlights the power and authority of God’s Word over human words. "Therefore, this is what the Lord GOD says: I am against your magic bands" (Ezekiel 13:20). God’s Word is living and active, and it will always prevail. Let’s immerse ourselves in Scripture, allowing it to guide and transform us. 5. The Danger of Complacency Ezekiel 13 warns against complacency, as the false prophets lulled the people into a false sense of security. "They say, ‘Peace,’ when there is no peace" (Ezekiel 13:10). We must remain vigilant and not be swayed by comforting lies. True peace comes from a right relationship with God. 6. Building on a Solid Foundation The chapter uses the metaphor of a flimsy wall to illustrate the consequences of building on a weak foundation. "When the wall collapses, will it not be said to you, ‘Where is the whitewash you applied?’" (Ezekiel 13:12). Our lives must be built on the solid rock of Christ, ensuring stability and strength. 7. God’s Sovereignty Ezekiel 13 reminds us of God’s sovereignty over all things. Despite the false prophets’ claims, God’s plans and purposes will stand. "I will tear down the wall you have whitewashed" (Ezekiel 13:14). Trust in God’s ultimate control and His perfect will for our lives. 8. The Call to Repentance The chapter serves as a call to repentance for those who have strayed. God desires that we turn from our ways and seek Him wholeheartedly. "You will know that I am the LORD" (Ezekiel 13:23). Repentance is a gift that leads to restoration and renewed relationship with God. 9. The Role of a True Prophet Ezekiel 13 contrasts false prophets with the role of a true prophet, who speaks God’s truth regardless of popularity. As believers, we are called to be truth-bearers, sharing the gospel with boldness and love. Let’s be faithful in our witness, pointing others to Christ. 10. Hope in God’s Promises Despite the warnings, Ezekiel 13 ultimately points to the hope found in God’s promises. God’s faithfulness endures, and His promises are sure. "Then you will know that I am the LORD" (Ezekiel 13:23). Let’s hold fast to the hope we have in Christ, trusting in His unfailing love and grace. Topics 1. Condemnation of False Prophets (Ezekiel 13:1-7) The chapter begins with a direct word from the LORD to Ezekiel, instructing him to prophesy against the false prophets of Israel. These prophets are described as those who "prophesy out of their own imagination" (Ezekiel 13:2). The Hebrew term for "imagination" here is "leb," which often refers to the heart or inner self, indicating that these prophecies are self-originated rather than divinely inspired. 2. Divine Judgment on False Prophecies (Ezekiel 13:8-9) God declares His opposition to these false prophets, stating that they have "seen false visions and uttered lying divinations" (Ezekiel 13:9). The consequence is that they will not be part of the assembly of God's people, nor will they enter the land of Israel. The Hebrew word for "lying" is "kazab," emphasizing deceit and falsehood. 3. False Sense of Security (Ezekiel 13:10-12) The false prophets are accused of misleading the people by proclaiming "Peace" when there is no peace. This false assurance is likened to building a flimsy wall and covering it with whitewash. The Hebrew word for "whitewash" is "tapuach," which implies a superficial covering that hides the true condition. 4. God's Wrath Against the Whitewashed Wall (Ezekiel 13:13-16) God promises to unleash His wrath against the wall and those who whitewashed it, symbolizing the destruction of false security. The imagery of a storm, hailstones, and a violent wind is used to depict the thoroughness of God's judgment. 5. Condemnation of Female False Prophets (Ezekiel 13:17-19) The chapter also addresses female prophets who practice divination. They are accused of ensnaring souls and profaning God among His people for personal gain. The Hebrew term "keseph" (translated as "money" or "gain") highlights the mercenary nature of their actions. 6. God's Promise to Deliver His People (Ezekiel 13:20-23) God vows to rescue His people from the deceit of these false prophets. He will tear the veils and charms used by these women to manipulate others, thus freeing the people from their grasp. The chapter concludes with God's assurance that the people will know He is the LORD when He delivers them from deception. Themes 1. Condemnation of False Prophets Ezekiel 13 begins with a strong denunciation of false prophets in Israel. These individuals claim to speak for God but are actually spreading lies and deceit. The Hebrew term for "false prophets" (נְבִיאֵי שֶׁקֶר, nevi'ei sheker) highlights their deceitful nature. The Lord declares, "Woe to the foolish prophets who follow their own spirit and have seen nothing" (Ezekiel 13:3). 2. Deceptive Visions and Divinations The chapter emphasizes the falsehood of the visions and divinations proclaimed by these prophets. They are described as "seeing false visions and lying divinations" (Ezekiel 13:6). The Hebrew word for "lying" (כָּזָב, kazab) underscores the intentional deceit involved in their proclamations. 3. God’s Judgment on False Prophets God pronounces judgment on these false prophets, stating that they will not be part of the assembly of His people, nor will they enter the land of Israel. This is a severe consequence for leading the people astray. "Because they have led My people astray, saying, ‘Peace,’ when there is no peace" (Ezekiel 13:10). 4. Metaphor of the Flimsy Wall The false prophets are compared to those who build a flimsy wall and cover it with whitewash. This metaphor illustrates the superficial and unstable nature of their teachings. "When the wall collapses, will it not be said to you, ‘Where is the whitewash with which you covered it?’" (Ezekiel 13:12). 5. Divine Rejection of False Security The chapter highlights the false sense of security that these prophets provide to the people. God declares that He will tear down the wall they have whitewashed, symbolizing the destruction of their false assurances. "I will tear down the wall you have whitewashed and level it to the ground" (Ezekiel 13:14). 6. Condemnation of Female False Prophets Ezekiel 13 also addresses female false prophets who engage in practices that ensnare the people. They are condemned for their role in misleading the community. "Woe to the women who sew magic charms on all their wrists and make veils of every size for their heads" (Ezekiel 13:18). 7. God’s Promise to Deliver His People Despite the deception of the false prophets, God promises to deliver His people from their influence. He will rescue them from the traps set by these deceivers. "I will tear them from your arms and release the people they have ensnared like birds" (Ezekiel 13:20). 8. Restoration of Truth and Justice The chapter concludes with God’s commitment to restoring truth and justice among His people. He will ensure that His word is upheld and that the falsehoods of the prophets are exposed. "Then you will know that I am the LORD" (Ezekiel 13:23). Prayer Points Pray for wisdom and discernment to recognize and reject false teachings. Ask God to raise up faithful leaders who will teach His Word accurately and boldly. Pray for protection against deception and for the strength to stand firm in God’s truth. Seek God’s guidance in deepening your understanding of His Word and applying it to your life. Answering Tough Questions 1. How do we reconcile the harsh condemnation of “false prophets” in Ezekiel 13:2–3 with claims about genuine prophecies elsewhere in the Bible? 2. If Ezekiel 13:10 condemns prophets who proclaim “Peace” when there is none, how do we verify which prophet is truly speaking on behalf of God? 3. In Ezekiel 13:18–20, where it references “bands” and “veils” used for ensnaring souls, is there any historical or archeological evidence supporting such practices? 4. How can we address apparent contradictions between Ezekiel 13’s condemnation of false prophecy and other scriptures that emphasize God’s sovereignty over all prophecy? 5. Is there any non-biblical historical record of the destruction predicted for false prophets in Ezekiel 13 being fulfilled or documented? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the image of whitewashing walls serve as a metaphor for the actions of false prophets? 2. Compare the actions of false prophets in Ezekiel 13 to instances of misinformation in our society today. What similarities and differences do you see? 3. How does Ezekiel 13 challenge you to evaluate the sources of information you trust? 4. How can you discern between a false prophet and a true prophet according to this chapter? 5. In what ways does God's response to the false prophets reveal His character? 6. How can you apply the lessons from Ezekiel 13 in distinguishing truth from falsehood in your everyday life? 7. How can Ezekiel 13 inform our understanding of the nature and purpose of true prophecy? 8. How does the warning against the false prophetesses broaden the message of the chapter? 9. How can the image of God tearing down the whitewashed wall inspire you in moments of doubt and deception? 10. What does the fate of the false prophets in Ezekiel 13 tell us about the consequences of leading others astray? 11. How does God’s declaration of setting His face against the false prophets affect your understanding of His justice? 12. How does the context of Ezekiel's time compare to ours when it comes to discerning false prophecies? 13. How does God's promise to save His people in verses 17-23 encourage you today? 14. How do you think Ezekiel felt when delivering this message, and why? 15. How does this chapter impact your understanding of personal responsibility in a faith community? 16. How can Ezekiel 13 guide us in maintaining integrity in our spiritual journey? 17. How can the lessons from Ezekiel 13 assist us in confronting deceit and falsehood in our present society? 18. How does this chapter challenge your personal faith journey? 19. In the light of Ezekiel 13, how would you deal with someone who claims to speak for God but contradicts biblical truth? 20. What can you do in your community to ensure that truth prevails over deceit and falsehood? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions