Ezekiel 13:11

KJV

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].

KJV (with Strong's)

Say {H559} unto them which daub {H2902} it with untempered {H8602} morter, that it shall fall {H5307}: there shall be an overflowing {H7857} shower {H1653}; and ye {H859}, O great hailstones {H417}{H68}, shall fall {H5307}; and a stormy {H5591} wind {H7307} shall rend {H1234} it.

Complete Jewish Bible

Tell these 'plasterers' that a cloudburst is coming, with huge hailstones and gale-force winds;

Berean Standard Bible

tell those whitewashing the wall that it will fall. Rain will come in torrents, I will send hailstones plunging down, and a windstorm will burst forth.

American Standard Version

say unto them that daub it with untempered mortar, that it shall fall: there shall be an overflowing shower; and ye, O great hailstones, shall fall; and a stormy wind shall rend it.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 13:11 declares God's imminent and devastating judgment against the false prophets of Israel, whose deceptive and unsubstantial messages are likened to a poorly constructed wall daubed with "untempered mortar." This verse vividly portrays the complete collapse of their fraudulent work under the overwhelming force of divine retribution, symbolized by an overflowing shower, great hailstones, and a rending stormy wind, revealing the utter futility of building spiritual security on anything other than God's unyielding truth.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezekiel 13 is a focused prophetic oracle delivered by God through Ezekiel, specifically targeting the false prophets and prophetesses who were active in Jerusalem and among the exiles. Prior to verse 11, God condemns these individuals for speaking "out of their own imagination" (Ezekiel 13:2), claiming to have visions and divine messages that were not from the Lord. They are depicted as building a flimsy wall and then "daubing it with untempered mortar" (Ezekiel 13:10), a powerful metaphor for their deceptive assurances of peace and security in a time when God had decreed judgment and destruction. Verse 11 directly follows this imagery, serving as God's pronouncement of the inevitable ruin of their deceitful work, setting the stage for the subsequent verses that detail the complete exposure and destruction of these false prophecies.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecies in Ezekiel were delivered during a tumultuous period in Israel's history, primarily during the Babylonian exile (c. 597-571 BC). Many Jews had been deported to Babylon, while others remained in Jerusalem. In this climate of national crisis, false prophets emerged, promising peace, a swift return from exile, and the preservation of Jerusalem, directly contradicting God's true message of impending judgment and prolonged exile delivered by prophets like Jeremiah and Ezekiel. Culturally, building practices involved using mortar to bind stones or bricks. "Untempered mortar" (or whitewash) would give a superficial appearance of strength and stability to a wall but lacked true structural integrity. This imagery would have been readily understood by Ezekiel's audience as a symbol of something outwardly appealing but inwardly worthless, perfectly illustrating the deceptive nature of the false prophets' messages that offered superficial comfort without genuine spiritual substance.
* **Key Themes:** Ezekiel 13:11 contributes significantly to several major themes present in the book of Ezekiel and broader prophetic literature. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Judgment**, where God unequivocally asserts His sovereignty and righteous wrath against those who corrupt His word and mislead His people. The destructive natural elements—shower, hailstones, stormy wind—are potent symbols of His irresistible power in executing this judgment, echoing similar pronouncements found in passages like [Isaiah 28:17](/isaiah/28-17 "Isaiah 28:17 - Judgment as a Sweeping Hailstorm"). Another key theme is **False Prophecy and Deception**, highlighting the grave danger of spiritual leaders who speak lies in God's name, offering false hope and preventing true repentance. This stands in stark contrast to the theme of **Truth and Authenticity**, where God's word, though often difficult, is presented as the only firm and reliable foundation, unlike the flimsy "untempered mortar" of human deceit. The verse also underscores the **Sovereignty of God** over all human endeavors, demonstrating that no human deception can withstand His ultimate will and judgment, a truth consistently emphasized throughout [the book of Ezekiel](/ezekiel/1 "The Book of Ezekiel - God's Glory and Judgment").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **daub (Hebrew, _ṭûwach'_):** This primitive root means "to smear, especially with lime; daub, overlay, plaister, smut." In the context of Ezekiel 13, it refers to the act of applying a superficial coating to a wall. It implies a covering or concealment, not a true strengthening. The false prophets were not building or repairing but merely whitewashing, attempting to hide the inherent weakness and instability of their spiritual edifice.
* **untempered (Hebrew, _tâphêl'_):** Derived from an unused root meaning "to smear," this word describes plaster or slime that is "gummy" or "unsavoury." Figuratively, it refers to "frivolity" or "foolish things." It signifies something improperly mixed, lacking the necessary binding agents to make it strong and durable. Applied to the false prophets' messages, it means their words lacked substance, divine authority, and true spiritual integrity, offering no real protection or stability.
* **fall (Hebrew, _nâphal'_):** This primitive root is rich in meaning, encompassing "to fall" in a great variety of applications (intransitive or causative, literal or figurative). It can mean to collapse, perish, be overthrown, or cease to exist. In Ezekiel 13:11, its repeated use emphasizes the certainty and totality of the destruction. The wall, representing the false prophecies, will not merely weaken but will utterly collapse and be overthrown by divine forces.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Say unto them which daub [it] with untempered [morter], that it shall fall:"** This opening clause is a direct divine command to Ezekiel, instructing him to confront the false prophets. The "it" refers to the flimsy wall they have constructed, symbolic of their deceptive messages and the false sense of security they have offered. The declaration "that it shall fall" is a definitive pronouncement of the inevitable collapse of their fraudulent work, setting the tone for the destructive imagery that follows.
* **"there shall be an overflowing shower;"** This introduces the first of three powerful natural elements representing God's judgment. An "overflowing shower" (Hebrew: _geshem_ for shower, _shâṭaph_ for overflowing/inundate) signifies a torrential downpour, a deluge that will wash away the superficial covering and undermine the weak foundation of the "untempered mortar." It speaks to the overwhelming, cleansing, and destructive power of divine wrath.
* **"and ye, O great hailstones, shall fall;"** The judgment intensifies with the introduction of "great hailstones." Hailstones, often associated with divine judgment in biblical narratives (e.g., the plagues in Egypt), represent a hard, destructive force that will shatter and break apart the flimsy structure. The direct address "O great hailstones" personifies them as agents of God's will, emphasizing their active role in the demolition.
* **"and a stormy wind shall rend [it]."** The final element of destruction is a "stormy wind" (Hebrew: _çaʻar_ for hurricane/tempest, _rûwach_ for wind/spirit). This powerful, tearing wind will completely "rend" (Hebrew: _bâqaʻ_, to cleave, tear, rip apart) the wall, leaving it in pieces. It signifies the utter dismantling and exposure of the false prophets' work, leaving no trace of their deceptive facade.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 13:11 is rich in **Metaphor** and **Symbolism**. The central **metaphor** is that of the "untempered mortar" applied to a flimsy wall, which **symbolizes** the false prophecies and deceptive assurances offered by the unfaithful spiritual leaders. This imagery powerfully conveys the superficiality and inherent weakness of their messages. The subsequent "overflowing shower," "great hailstones," and "stormy wind" are not literal weather events but potent **symbols** of God's overwhelming and irresistible judgment. These natural forces represent the various ways divine retribution will expose and demolish the false security and lies. The phrase "O great hailstones, shall fall" also employs a subtle form of **Personification**, addressing the hailstones as if they are conscious agents participating in God's destructive decree, thereby intensifying the dramatic impact of the prophecy. The cumulative effect of these devices is to create a vivid and terrifying picture of inevitable ruin for those who build on deception.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 13:11 powerfully underscores the theological truth that God's judgment is inevitable for those who corrupt His word and mislead His people. The "untempered mortar" serves as a timeless warning against any spiritual foundation built on human invention, superficiality, or deception rather than on the solid rock of divine truth. This passage highlights God's unwavering commitment to truth and righteousness, demonstrating that He will expose and dismantle all forms of spiritual fraud. It emphasizes the critical importance of discerning true prophecy from false, reminding believers that genuine spiritual security comes only from faithful adherence to God's revealed word, which alone can withstand the storms of life and the scrutiny of divine judgment.

* [Isaiah 28:17](/isaiah/28-17 "Isaiah 28:17 - Judgment Sweeps Away Lies") - "Judgment also will I lay to the line, and righteousness to the plummet: and the hail shall sweep away the refuge of lies, and the waters shall overflow the hiding place."
* [Matthew 7:26-27](/matthew/7-26 "Matthew 7:26-27 - The House Built on Sand") - "And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it."
* [Jeremiah 14:14](/jeremiah/14-14 "Jeremiah 14:14 - False Prophets Speak Lies") - "Then the LORD said unto me, The prophets prophesy lies in my name: I sent them not, neither have I commanded them, neither spake unto them: they prophesy unto you a false vision and divination, and a thing of nought, and the deceit of their heart."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 13:11 serves as a profound and urgent call for spiritual discernment in every generation. In a world saturated with competing voices and promises, this verse compels us to critically evaluate the foundations upon which we build our lives, our faith, and our understanding of truth. It challenges us to look beyond superficial appearances and comforting words, asking whether what we are hearing or believing has true divine substance or is merely "untempered mortar"—a pleasing facade that will inevitably crumble under the pressures of life or the scrutiny of God's judgment. For individuals, it emphasizes the necessity of grounding one's hope and security in the unshakeable Word of God and the person of Christ, rather than in fleeting trends, human philosophies, or self-deception. For those in positions of spiritual leadership, it is a sobering warning against compromising truth for popularity, speaking from personal ambition rather than divine revelation, or offering false comfort that hinders genuine repentance and spiritual growth. The storms of life will surely come, and only that which is built on God's solid truth will stand.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "untempered mortar" might I be applying in my own life or faith, creating a false sense of security?**
* **How can I better discern between genuine spiritual truth and deceptive messages in today's world?**
* **In what ways might I be tempted to offer superficial comfort or solutions instead of challenging others to confront difficult truths?**
* **What does it truly mean to build my life on a "firm foundation" in light of this passage?**

### FAQ

**What is "untempered mortar" in a spiritual sense?**

Answer: In Ezekiel 13:11, "untempered mortar" (Hebrew: *tâphêl*) refers to a plaster or whitewash that is poorly mixed, lacking the necessary binding agents to make it strong and durable. Spiritually, it symbolizes deceptive, flimsy, and unsubstantial messages or teachings from false prophets that offer a superficial appearance of peace, security, or spiritual well-being without any true divine substance or foundation. These messages are designed to cover up underlying weakness, sin, or impending judgment, preventing people from facing reality and seeking genuine repentance or truth. It's a facade that cannot withstand the storms of divine judgment, as seen in the imagery of the "overflowing shower" and "stormy wind" that will "rend" it.

**How does God's judgment manifest in this verse?**

Answer: God's judgment in Ezekiel 13:11 is depicted through powerful natural phenomena: an "overflowing shower," "great hailstones," and a "stormy wind." These are not merely literal weather events but symbolic representations of the overwhelming and irresistible force of divine retribution. The overflowing shower will wash away the superficial "untempered mortar," exposing the flimsy wall beneath. The great hailstones will shatter and break apart the structure, and the stormy wind will utterly tear it down. This imagery conveys a judgment that is comprehensive, destructive, and inevitable, leaving no trace of the false prophets' deceptive work and revealing its utter worthlessness. It's a demonstration of God's sovereignty over all human deception and His commitment to justice.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 13:11, with its stark warning against building on flimsy foundations and its prophecy of inevitable judgment, finds its ultimate fulfillment and counterpoint in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the false prophets offered "untempered mortar" – a superficial peace and false security – Jesus declared Himself to be the [truth](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life") and the [only sure foundation](/1_corinthians/3-11 "1 Corinthians 3:11 - Christ the Only Foundation") upon which a life, a faith, and an eternal hope can be built. He is the [Chief Cornerstone](/ephesians/2-20 "Ephesians 2:20 - Christ as the Cornerstone") rejected by men but chosen by God, against whom the gates of hell cannot prevail. The "overflowing shower," "great hailstones," and "stormy wind" of judgment that rend the false wall foreshadow the ultimate judgment that will fall upon all who reject Christ and His truth, as described in passages like [Matthew 7:24-27](/matthew/7-24 "Matthew 7:24-27 - The Wise and Foolish Builders"), where the house built on the rock (Christ's words) stands firm, while the one on sand collapses. Conversely, for those who build on Christ, He Himself bore the full force of divine judgment on the cross, becoming the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, thereby securing an eternal foundation that no storm can shake. In Him, the deceptive "untempered mortar" of human effort and false religion is exposed, and true, lasting peace is found.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Ezekiel 38:22

And I will plead against him with pestilence and with blood; and I will rain upon him, and upon his bands, and upon the many people that [are] with him, an overflowing rain, and great hailstones, fire, and brimstone.

Isaiah 28:2

Behold, the Lord hath a mighty and strong one, [which] as a tempest of hail [and] a destroying storm, as a flood of mighty waters overflowing, shall cast down to the earth with the hand.

Isaiah 28:15

Because ye have said, We have made a covenant with death, and with hell are we at agreement; when the overflowing scourge shall pass through, it shall not come unto us: for we have made lies our refuge, and under falsehood have we hid ourselves:

Isaiah 28:18

And your covenant with death shall be disannulled, and your agreement with hell shall not stand; when the overflowing scourge shall pass through, then ye shall be trodden down by it.

Matthew 7:25

And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.

Matthew 7:27

And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.

Job 27:21

The east wind carrieth him away, and he departeth: and as a storm hurleth him out of his place.