Old Testament
Jeremiah 22:13
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse from Jeremiah warns against the practices of injustice and exploitation.
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
Woe to him who builds his house by unrighteousness and his rooms by wrongdoing, who uses his neighbor's service without paying wages and does not give him anything for his work;
Woe unto him that buildeth his house by unrighteousness, and his chambers by wrong; that useth his neighbour’s service without wages, and giveth him not for his work;
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse from Jeremiah warns against the practices of injustice and exploitation. It condemns those who build their homes and lives on the foundation of wrongdoing, particularly by taking advantage of others. The imagery of building a house represents establishing a life or legacy, while the mention of not paying workers highlights the moral obligation to treat others fairly. The verse emphasizes that using someone's labor without compensation is not only unethical but also leads to divine judgment. It serves as a reminder that true prosperity cannot be built on the suffering of others, and that justice and righteousness are essential for a stable and honorable life.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Jeremiah 22:13 to your life
In our daily lives, we should ensure that we treat others fairly, especially in work situations. This means paying fair wages and respecting the efforts of those who help us. Building a life based on integrity and justice leads to true fulfillment and peace.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 22:13 mean?
Jeremiah 22:13 warns against building a life on injustice and exploitation. It highlights the importance of treating others fairly, particularly in work situations, and emphasizes that unethical practices lead to divine judgment.
What is the meaning of unrighteousness in Jeremiah 22:13?
In Jeremiah 22:13, unrighteousness refers to actions that are morally wrong or unjust. This includes exploiting others for personal gain, such as not paying workers for their labor.
How does Jeremiah 22:13 apply to modern work ethics?
Jeremiah 22:13 applies to modern work ethics by emphasizing the need for fair treatment of workers. It encourages individuals and businesses to pay fair wages and respect the contributions of others.
What themes are present in Jeremiah 22:13?
The themes in Jeremiah 22:13 include injustice, exploitation, moral obligation, and the importance of fairness. It underscores the idea that unethical behavior leads to negative consequences.

The Book of Jeremiah
Jeremiah 1: The Call of Jeremiah
The words of Jeremiah, son of Hilkiah, a priest from Anathoth in the land of Benjamin, are recorded. The word of the LORD comes to him in the thirteenth year of King Josiah's reign over Judah. It continues to come to him through the reign of King Jehoiakim and until the eleventh year of King Zedekiah, when Jerusalem is carried into captivity. The LORD states that before He formed Jeremiah in the womb, He knew him and ordained him as a prophet to the nations. Jeremiah responds that he cannot speak because he is a child. The LORD commands him not to say he is a child, for he will go where the LORD sends him and speak what the LORD commands.
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