A Divine Warning Against Deception
Ezekiel 13:17–23
The Bible is filled with moments where God addresses His people with powerful words of correction and truth. One such passage is Ezekiel 13:17–23, a striking call to accountability for those who misuse spiritual practices to ensnare people into the occult for their own gain. Though spoken thousands of years ago, this scripture resonates today, challenging us to examine our own hearts and the influences we allow into our lives.
The Context: False Prophets Among the People
Ezekiel was a prophet sent by God to the people of Israel during their exile in Babylon. His mission was to deliver messages of both warning and hope. In this passage, God speaks against the women of Israel who were engaging in deceitful practices such as using magical charms and veils of obscuration to manipulate and ensnare others. These women falsely claimed divine authority, profiting from their lies while leading people away from God.
Scripture Text
“Now, son of man, set your face against the daughters of your people who play the prophet from their own imagination. Prophesy against them. You shall say: Thus says the Lord God: Woe to those who sew bands for everyone’s wrists and make veils for every size of head to snare lives! You ensnare the lives of my people, even as you preserve your own lives.” (Ezekiel 13:17–18)
This passage illustrates the gravity of misleading others in the name of spirituality. These individuals exploited their influence, creating spiritual traps for the vulnerable while securing their own comfort and safety.
A Deeper Look at the Message
1. The Deception of False Practices
The women condemned here were not simply offering false prophecies, they were actively leading people astray. They used symbolic objects like bands and veils to create an illusion of spiritual power. They traded lies for material gain, profaning God’s name in the process.
This serves as a timeless warning about the dangers of spiritual manipulation. In today’s world, we see similar patterns: leaders or influencers using false religions or occult spirituality to exploit others for power, money, or prestige.
2. God’s Judgment
“Therefore thus says the Lord God: See! I am coming against your bands in which you snare lives like birds; I will tear them from your arms and set free the lives that you have snared like birds.” (Ezekiel 13:20)
God’s response is clear and decisive. He vows to tear down the instruments of deception and free those who have been ensnared. This imagery reminds us of God’s justice and His mandate for liberation. He is not indifferent to the plight of those oppressed by falsehood. He acts to bring freedom.
3. The Importance of Truth
You have discouraged the righteous with your lies, when I had done them no harm, and you have encouraged the wicked, so that they do not turn from their evil ways and save their lives.” (Ezekiel 13:22)
This verse shows how destructive falsehood can be. Lies weigh down those who are trying to live faithfully, making them feel condemned when God has not condemned them. At the same time, lies give false comfort to the wicked, letting them continue on in sin without repentance, even though their lives are at stake.
God’s will is the opposite: He desires the righteous to be strengthened by truth and the wicked to be confronted by it, so they might turn back and live. Truth restores, encourages, and saves, deception only tears down.
Lessons to Take Away
Ezekiel 13:17–23 is not just a historical account but a wake-up call for all generations. Here are key takeaways for modern believers:
- Test the Spirits
Not all who claim to speak for God are truly guided by Him. 1 John 4:1 reminds us to “test the spirits” to discern whether they are from God. We must remain vigilant against teachings or practices that contradict the Word of God. - Avoid Spiritual Exploitation
God condemns using spirituality as a means of manipulation or personal gain. As followers of Christ, we are called to live with integrity and humility, pointing others to God, not using Him as a tool for our own benefit. - Trust in God’s Deliverance
For those who feel trapped or misled, this passage is a reminder that God is a deliverer. He sees your struggles and is committed to setting you free from any form of spiritual bondage.
The Closing Promise
“I will deliver my people from your hand. Thus you shall know that I am the Lord.”
(Ezekiel 13:23)
This is the ultimate hope, that God’s truth prevails, His justice is served, and His people are set free. Whether you’re facing deception, spiritual confusion, or oppression, God’s power and love are more than enough to bring restoration.
Tantric Deception 