Old Testament
Ezekiel 13:10
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, God is expressing frustration with leaders who mislead the people by falsely proclaiming peace.
- Author
- Ezekiel the prophet
- Written
- Around 590 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
This is happening because they have led my people astray, saying, 'Peace!' when there is no peace. When someone builds a wall, others cover it with untempered mortar.
Because, even because they have seduced my people, saying, Peace; and there was no peace; and one built up a wall, and, lo, others daubed it with untempered morter:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, God is expressing frustration with leaders who mislead the people by falsely proclaiming peace. They are giving a false sense of security, ignoring the real dangers that exist. The metaphor of building a wall with untempered mortar illustrates how their efforts are weak and unreliable. Just as a wall built poorly cannot stand, their promises of peace are empty. This situation leads to a false hope among the people, who believe they are safe when they are not. God is calling out these leaders for their dishonesty and the harm they cause. The message is clear: true peace cannot be built on lies and superficial assurances. Instead, it requires honesty and a solid foundation. The leaders must recognize their responsibility to guide the people truthfully, rather than leading them into danger with false claims. This warning serves as a reminder to seek genuine peace and to be wary of those who offer comfort without truth, as it can lead to devastating consequences. Explore related trust.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Ezekiel 13:10 to your life
Reflect on the sources of guidance in your life. Are they leading you toward genuine peace or false security? Seek out voices that speak truthfully, even if it’s uncomfortable. Build your life on solid foundations, not on empty promises. Choose honesty in your own interactions with others as well, fostering true connections and understanding.
Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ezekiel 13:10 mean?
Ezekiel 13:10 addresses the issue of leaders misleading the people by falsely proclaiming peace when there is none. It highlights the danger of giving a false sense of security and the consequences of ignoring real threats.
What is the significance of untempered mortar in Ezekiel 13:10?
The untempered mortar in Ezekiel 13:10 symbolizes weak and unreliable efforts. Just as a wall built with poor materials cannot stand, the promises of peace made by false leaders are empty and cannot provide true safety.
How does Ezekiel 13:10 relate to leadership accountability?
Ezekiel 13:10 underscores the responsibility of leaders to guide their people truthfully. It warns against the harm caused by misleading claims, stressing that leaders must be held accountable for their words and actions.
What themes are present in Ezekiel 13:10?
Key themes in Ezekiel 13:10 include false security, the importance of truthful leadership, the contrast between truth and lies, and the pursuit of genuine peace. These themes highlight the dangers of deception in spiritual guidance.

The Book of Ezekiel
Ezekiel 1: Visions of God
The word of the LORD comes to Ezekiel the priest, the son of Buzi, by the river Chebar in the land of the Chaldeans. He sees visions of God as the heavens open. A great cloud comes from the north with a fire flashing continually and brightness around it, and from the midst appears something like glowing metal. From the fire emerge four living creatures, each with the likeness of a man. Each has four faces and four wings, and their legs are straight with feet like a calf's foot, shining like polished brass. Their faces are those of a man, a lion, an ox, and an eagle, and their wings are joined one to another as they move straight forward without turning.
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