Book of Jeremiah - Chapter 22 - Verse 13

In this verse, the Bible warns against the practice of exploiting others for personal gain. It condemns the act of building one's own wealth and success through deceit and dishonesty. The verse specifically calls out those who take advantage of their neighbors by not paying them fairly for their work. This serves as a reminder that God values justice, fairness, and compassion in all aspects of life. It teaches us to treat others with respect, honesty, and integrity, and to not exploit or manipulate them for our own benefit. By following this principle, we can uphold the values of righteousness and ensure that our actions are in alignment with God's will.

One possible theological interpretation of this verse highlights the importance of justice and righteousness in the eyes of God. The act of building a house or using someone's service without proper compensation is seen as a sin in this verse, emphasizing the need to treat others with fairness and respect. The phrase "Woe unto him" serves as a warning of the consequences of such actions, suggesting that those who engage in unrighteous behavior will face judgment and punishment. By drawing attention to social injustices like unpaid labor and exploitation, the verse promotes the values of fairness, honesty, and compassion in interactions with others. Through word studies on terms like "unrighteousness" and "wrong," we gain a deeper understanding of the specific behaviors that displease God and the importance of upholding ethical standards in all aspects of life.