Old Testament
Ezekiel 13:11
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, God warns those who are trying to build something that isn’t strong enough.
- Author
- Ezekiel the prophet
- Written
- Around 590 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Tell those who coat it with untempered mortar that it will fall: there will be a heavy rain, and you, O great hailstones, will fall; and a stormy wind will tear it apart.
Say unto them which daub it with untempered morter, that it shall fall: there shall be an overflowing shower; and ye, O great hailstones, shall fall; and a stormy wind shall rend it.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God warns those who are trying to build something that isn’t strong enough. They are using weak materials, like untempered mortar, which won’t hold up against the storms of life. The imagery of heavy rain, hailstones, and strong winds illustrates the inevitable challenges that will come. When the storms hit, their weak construction will collapse. This serves as a reminder that we need to build our lives on solid foundations, not on superficial or temporary things. Just as a house needs a strong structure to withstand the elements, our lives need strong values and beliefs to endure tough times. The message is clear: without proper preparation and strength, we will face destruction when difficulties arise. It’s a call to evaluate what we are building our lives upon and to ensure it can withstand the storms we encounter. Strength and resilience come from a solid foundation, not from flimsy materials that will fail us when we need them most. We must choose wisely what we rely on.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Ezekiel 13:11 to your life
Consider what you are building your life upon. Are your values and beliefs strong enough to withstand life's storms? Take time to reflect on your foundations and make necessary changes to ensure you are prepared for challenges ahead. Strengthen your core beliefs and support systems to endure tough times better. Seek wisdom and guidance in your choices to build a lasting life structure that can weather any storm you face. “Be strong and courageous.
Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ezekiel 13:11 mean?
Ezekiel 13:11 warns against building with weak materials, symbolized by untempered mortar. It emphasizes that without a strong foundation, one will not withstand life's challenges, represented by heavy rain and storms.
What is the significance of untempered mortar in Ezekiel 13:11?
Untempered mortar in Ezekiel 13:11 symbolizes inadequate preparation and strength. It illustrates how relying on weak foundations can lead to failure when faced with difficulties.
What does the storm imagery in Ezekiel 13:11 represent?
The storm imagery in Ezekiel 13:11 represents the inevitable challenges and trials of life. It serves as a reminder that without a solid foundation, one is likely to collapse under pressure.
How can I apply the message of Ezekiel 13:11 to my life?
To apply the message of Ezekiel 13:11, evaluate the foundations of your beliefs and values. Ensure they are strong enough to endure life's challenges, and make necessary adjustments to build resilience.
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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