Old Testament
Jeremiah 22:13
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
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;
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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;
What Jeremiah 22:13 means
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.
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
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Keep studying Jeremiah 22:13
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Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Jeremiah
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
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.
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