Ezekiel 13

3 that follow their own spirit, and have seen nothing. The false prophets are described as those who, having received no Divine message, follow their own guesses or inclinations, and utter that which has no reality. The true prophets spake “as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” These false prophets were numerous at this time both in Judæa and in Babylon, and greatly misled the people: see Jer. xxiii.

4 like the foxes in the deserts. These men were only mischievous and destructive.

5. Ye have not gone up, etc. An indignant address to the prophets, who, caring only for themselves, were of no value for the defence of the people. The imagery is that of a besieged city.

6. They have made [others] to hope that they would confirm the word. Or, “they have hoped for the fulfilling of the word.” Beginning with deluding others, they have even deceived themselves.

9 neither shall they be written, etc. That is, They shall be cut off from all the privileges of My people. The words are a climax. Not in the congregation, not in the register of genealogies, not even in the land!

10 with untempered [mortar]. Rather, “with whitewash” or stucco. One of these false prophets would rear some unsubstantial fabric of hope; and others would strive to give this fabric an attractive appearance, and to disguise its defects.

17 the daughters of thy people, etc. This is the only Old Testament passage that speaks of false prophetesses.

18 pillows to all armholes. “Amulets on everybody’s wrist” (Moffatt).

and make kerchiefs upon the head of every stature ("[persons of] every stature," R.V.). Or, “head-veils for every size,” i.e., to suit every one’s size. These were the superstitious charms, the “mascots” of that time.

Will ye hunt the souls, etc.? Rather, “Shall ye hunt the souls (persons) of My people, and keep your own souls alive?” (see R.V., marg.), i.e., make a living for yourselves by deluding others.

19 to slay the souls that should not die, etc. That is, to corrupt and ruin people who deserve a better fate, and to sustain your own worthless lives. So the Eternal was “polluted,” or dishonoured among His people, for these false prophets’ paltry foes.

22 ye have made the heart of the righteous sad. Their lies perplexed the good and emboldened the wicked. The R.V. translates the latter part of the verse, “that he shall not return from his wicked way, and be saved alive.”