Old Testament
Ezekiel 13:20
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 His strong disapproval of those who use deceptive practices to manipulate and control others.
- Author
- Ezekiel the prophet
- Written
- Around 590 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Therefore, this is what the Lord GOD says: I am against your pillows, which you use to hunt souls and make them fly. I will tear them from your arms and set the souls free, the souls you hunt to make them fly.
Wherefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I am against your pillows, wherewith ye there hunt the souls to make them fly, and I will tear them from your arms, and will let the souls go, even the souls that ye hunt to make them fly.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, God is expressing His strong disapproval of those who use deceptive practices to manipulate and control others. The 'pillows' symbolize false comforts or lies that these individuals use to ensnare people, leading them away from the truth. God declares that He will intervene, tearing away these deceptive influences and freeing those who have been misled. The imagery of hunting souls suggests a predatory approach to spirituality, where the vulnerable are exploited. God’s promise to set the souls free highlights His commitment to justice and protection for the oppressed. This message serves as a reminder that God is aware of manipulation and deceit, and He will act to restore truth and freedom. It emphasizes the importance of seeking genuine guidance and being wary of those who offer false security. Ultimately, God desires for everyone to experience true liberation and connection with Him, rather than being trapped by lies and deceitful practices. His intervention is a powerful assurance that He cares deeply for the well-being of every individual. Explore related deception.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Ezekiel 13:20 to your life
Reflect on the influences in your life. Are there people or ideas that offer false comfort but lead you away from the truth? Seek genuine relationships and guidance that promote honesty and freedom. Trust in God to help you discern what is real and beneficial for your spirit. Stay vigilant against deceitful practices in your surroundings. “,”chapter_summary_teaser”: “This chapter reveals God’s condemnation of those who manipulate others through deceitful means. It emphasizes His commitment to
Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ezekiel 13:20 mean?
Ezekiel 13:20 conveys God's condemnation of those who use deceitful practices to manipulate others. The 'pillows' symbolize false comforts that ensnare people, leading them away from the truth. God promises to intervene and free those who have been misled.
What is the significance of 'pillows' in Ezekiel 13:20?
In Ezekiel 13:20, 'pillows' represent false comforts or deceptive lies used by individuals to control and exploit others spiritually. This imagery highlights the manipulative tactics employed to lead vulnerable people away from genuine truth.
How does Ezekiel 13:20 relate to justice and freedom?
Ezekiel 13:20 illustrates God's commitment to justice by promising to tear away deceptive influences and set free those who have been misled. This verse reassures that God actively protects the oppressed and desires their liberation from manipulation.
What can we learn from Ezekiel 13:20 about seeking guidance?
Ezekiel 13:20 teaches the importance of seeking genuine guidance and being cautious of those who offer false security. It encourages individuals to discern influences in their lives and prioritize relationships that promote truth and freedom.
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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