יחזקאל, פרק ל״ג, פסוק ל׳

A profound gap often exists between how people present themselves in public and what they whisper in private. The people display an outward show of religious devotion, pretending to have a strong desire to hear the word of God, while secretly holding His messenger in deep contempt. In hidden corners, they speak to one another with scorn and mockery [רש״י, מצודת דוד]. These are not passing comments, but intense, mutual exchanges of disrespect aimed at the prophet [רד״ק, מלבי״ם].

The physical settings of these conversations highlight their secretive nature. People gather by walls and at the doorways of their homes, which serve as natural hiding spots for private exchanges. By leaning against a wall, they ensure no one can eavesdrop from behind. Standing at a doorway limits the audience to family and close friends, allowing them to share their true, cynical thoughts freely, much like close brothers sharing a secret [רד״ק, מצודת דוד, מלבי״ם].

This mockery quickly spreads from person to person throughout the neighborhood [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. As they speak to one another, they hypocritically invite their peers to come and listen to the message coming from God. Outwardly, this invitation is designed to make them appear as God-fearing believers who are thirsty for divine knowledge and eager to accept the prophet's rebuke [מלבי״ם]. In reality, the invitation is steeped in disrespect. They are calling each other to go listen to the prophet merely as a form of entertainment and mockery, entirely lacking any genuine reverence for God [מצודת דוד].