Deuteronomy 28:54 - The man who is tender among you, and very delicate, his eye will be evil toward his brother, toward the wife whom he loves, and toward the remnant of his children whom he has remaining;

Generated Verse: Deuteronomy 28:54

What does "Deuteronomy 28:54" mean?


Deuteronomy 28 outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience. This particular verse falls within the section of curses. It's a graphic depiction of the desperation and depravity that will result from famine and siege caused by disobedience to God.

Here's a breakdown of the verse's meaning:

"The man who is tender among you, and very delicate..." This highlights the contrast. It's not talking about a naturally cruel person. It describes someone who was previously considered gentle, refined, even pampered.

"...his eye will be evil toward his brother, toward the wife whom he loves, and toward the remnant of his children whom he has remaining..." This is the core of the curse. "Evil eye" in this context doesn't necessarily mean malicious intent in the modern sense. Instead, it implies a withholding of resources and a resentment born of starvation. The man, driven to extreme desperation by the famine, will be consumed by self-preservation. He will begrudge sharing even the smallest morsel with his closest family members (brother, wife, and surviving children).

In essence, the verse describes a situation so dire that:

Previously compassionate individuals will be reduced to selfishness. The famine will strip away their humanity.
They will become resentful of their own families. They will see their loved ones as competitors for scarce resources rather than as people deserving of their care and love.
It highlights the horrors of siege and starvation. It paints a picture of societal breakdown where even familial bonds are strained to the breaking point.

Context is Key:

It's crucial to understand this verse within the broader context of Deuteronomy 28. It's a warning against straying from God's commandments. The horrific imagery is meant to underscore the severe consequences of disobedience and to motivate the Israelites to remain faithful to their covenant with God. The verse doesn't say this is the character of all men, but a depiction of how one can be changed when removed from God's protection.

In summary, the verse vividly illustrates the devastating impact of extreme hardship on human relationships and the depths of depravity to which people can sink when faced with starvation due to disobedience to God.

What categories does "Deuteronomy 28:54" have?