What is the context?
The warning turns to women who likewise prophesy from their own imagination. The BSB describes wrist charms and veils used to ensnare people, with barley and scraps of bread involved in their trade.
The Lord charges them with profaning Him and reversing the response people need. Their lies dishearten the righteous and encourage the wicked to continue in ways that lead to death.
He declares that He will tear away the charms and veils and free the people caught like birds. Those being hunted will no longer be prey in these women’s hands.
The promise is both an end to false visions and a rescue of the people harmed by them. God does not simply expose the deception; He acts against the grip it has on His people.
How is this passage commonly understood?
The objects are understood differently. Henry and Wesley, commenting on older wording about pillows and head coverings, emphasize the false ease and promised success being offered. Wesley treats the pillows as a figure for security.
The Cambridge commentary on verses 18–20 reads the bands and coverings as actual objects used in divination, and the USCCB notes likewise understand them as amulets and veils associated with claims about life and death. That reading is reflected in the BSB’s wording about magic charms.
Both approaches recognize the harm stated at the end: the righteous are discouraged and the wicked are kept from turning back. The precise ritual details remain difficult, but the promise of deliverance from these lies is plain.
Where does this fit in God's plan?
John 8:31–36 connects continuing in Jesus’ word with knowing the truth and being set free. Jesus explains the deeper slavery as slavery to sin, and identifies the Son as the One who brings true freedom.
John is not explicitly interpreting the charms in Ezekiel. The shared theme is God’s rescue from a bondage that false confidence cannot break. Ezekiel promises release from those who trap people with lies; Jesus explains the freedom He gives and calls His hearers to remain in His word.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.